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via RacingNews365Max Verstappen stance stuns former F1 team-mate: 'I don't understand people who say that'Carlos Sainz has voiced his disbelief regarding the mindset of some drivers, including his former teammate Max Verstappen, who have considered stepping away from Formula 1. Sainz, who recently extended his contract with Williams, emphasized his desire to continue racing and highlighted the longevity of careers in the sport, referencing the ongoing success of older drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso.
Verstappen, who signed a new deal with Red Bull until 2030, has indicated he may retire before reaching his 40s, contrasting with Sainz's perspective. Sainz believes that maintaining physical fitness and mental motivation can allow drivers to compete at a high level for many years, and he personally finds immense joy in being part of Formula 1.
via f1oversteer.comHelmut Marko believes Red Bull once made an even bigger signing than Max VerstappenHelmut Marko believes Christian Horner once made a signing for Red Bull Racing who remains a more important capture for the F1 team than Max ...
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen extends staggering F1 streak into second decadeMax Verstappen has achieved an impressive streak in Formula 1, having not finished outside the top 10 in over a decade. His last non-points finish occurred at the 2016 Belgian Grand Prix, and since then, he has consistently scored points in every race he has completed, totaling 183 classified finishes with 70 victories and 128 podiums.
Despite facing challenges, including retirements and difficult seasons, Verstappen has maintained his remarkable consistency. His lowest finish this season was eighth, and he has never failed to score points in a race he completed, showcasing his exceptional performance and reliability as a driver.
via gpfans.comFernando Alonso paid by TWO teams for one season after launching Ferrari tiradeIn 2015, Alonso found himself in a unique situation, being compensated by both Ferrari and McLaren while racing for the latter. His total earnings for that year amounted to approximately £45 million, highlighting the complexities of his exit from Ferrari and the subsequent move to McLaren. Despite the financial windfall, Alonso's primary concern remained the competitiveness of his car, which did not meet his expectations for challenging for the championship.
via gpfans.comMax Verstappen and Lando Norris have given F1 a huge problem for years to comeThe current landscape of Formula 1 driver contracts suggests a challenging future for young drivers aspiring to secure top seats. With established stars like Verstappen, Norris, and Leclerc locked in until 2030, the path for new talent to ascend the ranks appears increasingly complicated. The article emphasizes that while opportunities may arise, they are likely to be filled by drivers already in the top teams, leaving little room for newcomers.
via RacingNews365Fernando Alonso denies theory over Aston Martin F1 futureFernando Alonso has clarified that his future in Formula 1 is not contingent on the performance of Honda's newly upgraded power unit, which debuted at the Dutch Grand Prix. Despite the struggles faced by both Honda and Aston Martin in the early season, Alonso remains focused on the long-term development of the car and the importance of understanding the chassis improvements made in Hungary.
As the team aims to recover its competitive edge, Alonso is not anticipating immediate gains that would elevate them to the front of the grid. Instead, he is looking for assurance that the changes implemented will yield the expected results, emphasizing that the specific performance metrics are secondary to the overall progress and alignment with their strategic goals.
via CrashF1 to ‘review’ chaotic Zandvoort start after Max Verstappen’s shuntThe Dutch Grand Prix experienced a chaotic start due to mixed track conditions, leading to Max Verstappen crashing into the barriers. Pierre Gasly noted that the drivers would review the situation, as the final corner remained damp while the rest of the track was dry, complicating the race start. Gabriel Bortoleto narrowly avoided a serious incident during the initial lap, highlighting the challenging conditions faced by the drivers.
Gasly expressed a preference for a different starting procedure, suggesting that a normal out-lap could have better prepared the drivers for the race. The FIA has the option to adjust starting procedures in wet conditions, and feedback from the drivers will be considered for future races to improve safety and performance.
via gpfans.comKelly Piquet opens up on 'difficult month' as a parent: 'Children notice more than we realise'Kelly Piquet, partner of F1 driver Max Verstappen, recently discussed the challenges she faced as a parent following her daughter Penelope's seventh birthday. In her Instagram post, she reflected on the emotional complexities of motherhood and the importance of providing a stable environment for children. Piquet highlighted that children are perceptive and aware of their surroundings, which can impact their emotional well-being.
In her message, Piquet shared insights on the lessons learned during this difficult month, emphasizing the need for calmness and reassurance in parenting. She expressed her dedication to being a supportive mother and ensuring that her daughters feel safe and valued. Piquet's reflections serve as a reminder of the challenges many parents face while navigating their children's emotional needs.
via CrashHow Max Verstappen's new deal has shielded F1 boss from uncomfortable questionsMax Verstappen has extended his contract with Red Bull until 2030, a decision that alleviates pressure on F1's leadership amid criticism of current regulations. His vocal discontent with the new power dynamics and racing style had raised concerns about his future in the sport, but he ultimately chose to remain, citing a belief in potential improvements ahead. This move is viewed as a positive development for F1, especially for CEO Stefano Domenicali, who would have faced significant backlash had Verstappen left the championship.
Despite his ongoing reservations about the regulations, Verstappen's commitment signals a willingness to give F1 a chance to evolve. The sport plans to adjust its power distribution in the coming years, and there is speculation about a return to V8 engines, which Verstappen hopes will enhance the racing experience. However, he remains cautious, indicating that his patience has limits and that he will continue to advocate for necessary changes.
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli told 'big rivalries' await as Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton lurkKimi Antonelli is currently leading the 2026 Formula 1 standings with a significant margin, having secured seven victories out of twelve races. His performance has sparked discussions about the emergence of new rivalries in the sport, particularly against established champions like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, who are also in contention for the title this season. David Coulthard highlighted the competitive landscape, suggesting that teams such as McLaren and Ferrari are becoming more formidable, setting the stage for intense battles on the track.
The article emphasizes the potential for Antonelli to become the youngest-ever F1 champion if he maintains his lead. With Hamilton and Russell tied for second place, the championship race is heating up, and Coulthard believes that the current dynamics could lead to significant rivalries reminiscent of past seasons. The support Antonelli receives from Mercedes further positions him as a key player in this evolving narrative within Formula 1.
via thejudge13.comHonda admits the big problem Fernando Alonso warned F1 fans aboutHonda has recognized the challenges with its new Formula 1 engine following criticism from Fernando Alonso after the Dutch Grand Prix. Alonso highlighted that the updated power unit has negatively impacted the car's drivability, despite improvements in chassis performance that allowed Aston Martin to secure points in the race. Honda's chief engineer has admitted that further optimization is necessary to enhance the engine's performance and usability for drivers.
As Aston Martin prepares for the upcoming race at Monza, Alonso's comments suggest that while the chassis development is progressing, the engine remains a significant limitation. Honda aims to address these drivability issues to meet the expectations set for the new power unit, with the Monza race serving as a crucial opportunity to demonstrate improvements.
via f1oversteer.comAston Martin keep using one word for the AMR26 after Fernando Alonso’s best result of 2026 so farAston Martin have a new keyword for the AMR26 after Fernando Alonso had his best result of the 2026 season so far with ninth place ...
via Motorsport WeekGuenther Steiner credits Alonso for Aston Martin pointsAston Martin achieved a points finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, with Fernando Alonso playing a crucial role in the team's success. However, team principal Mike Krack has expressed caution, indicating that more challenging races lie ahead.
via Motorsport.comNaomi Schiff points to Red Bull advantage after Dutch GP driver changeThe Dutch Grand Prix saw Red Bull Racing make a driver change due to Isack Hadjar's wrist injury, bringing in Liam Lawson from their sister team, Racing Bulls. This decision has reignited conversations about the advantages of having teams under the same ownership, particularly in terms of driver familiarity with the car specifications. Yuki Tsunoda also stepped in to race for Racing Bulls, filling the gap left by Lawson's promotion.
Naomi Schiff, a former W Series driver, emphasized that Lawson's experience with the 2026-specification cars provided him an edge over typical reserve drivers. Lawson finished the race in seventh place, securing six points for Red Bull, while the status of Hadjar's return for the next race remains unclear.
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen makes V8 engine admission after key F1 and FIA talksMax Verstappen has expressed a willingness to wait until 2030 for the possible reintroduction of V8 engines in Formula 1 after discussions with F1 and the FIA. He has been critical of the new engine regulations set for 2026, which will feature a 50:50 power output split between the Internal Combustion Engine and battery systems, a significant change from previous years. Despite his dissatisfaction, Verstappen has signed a new contract with Red Bull that extends his tenure until 2030, the year targeted for the return of V8 engines by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
Verstappen's comments reflect a broader concern among drivers regarding the direction of F1's engine regulations. He has indicated that he could continue racing into the 2030s if the V8s return, while acknowledging that improvements to the current engine situation are being discussed. His commitment to the sport remains strong, even as he navigates the challenges posed by the evolving regulations.
via the-race.comSchumacher help + Alonso blindsided: When Ferrari signed VettelThe article discusses the events surrounding Sebastian Vettel's signing with Ferrari, which began with his emotional first day at the team on November 29, 2014. The announcement of his departure from Red Bull took place on October 4, 2014, but it was not coordinated with Ferrari's announcement regarding Fernando Alonso's future, leaving Alonso blindsided as he was negotiating to extend his contract with the team at that time.
The timeline of Vettel's move to Ferrari was established well before the 2014 season, with discussions dating back to 2013. Michael Schumacher played a key role in advising Ferrari to focus on Vettel as their future star driver. Meanwhile, Alonso, who was under contract until the end of 2016, was unaware of the internal dynamics at Ferrari and believed he was in a strong position despite the team's struggles, culminating in a winless season.
via thejudge13.comThe Data Examined: Verstappen Claims Tsunoda Proved 2026 F1 Cars “Easier” to Find the LimitMax Verstappen has expressed his dissatisfaction with the 2026 Formula 1 cars, claiming they make it easier for drivers to find their limits, thus reducing the impact of driver skill. He noted that his teammate Isack Hadjar has been much closer in performance this season compared to Yuki Tsunoda's significant gap last year. Verstappen's comments were supported by recent performances from substitute drivers, indicating that the new cars may have leveled the playing field in some respects.
However, contrasting opinions from McLaren's team boss Andrea Stella suggest that while the new cars may be easier to drive in some aspects, they require new skills in energy management that can create larger gaps between teammates. Data from various teams shows mixed results, with some driver pairings becoming more disparate, challenging Verstappen's assertion that the 2026 regulations have universally equalized driver performance.
via f1oversteer.comLawrence Stroll just ‘sounded out’ two F1 engine manufacturers as Aston Martin seek Plan-B to HondaAston Martin is exploring alternatives to their current engine supplier, Honda, due to disappointing performance in the 2026 F1 season. Lawrence Stroll has reached out to Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains to discuss potential engine supply deals for 2028, as Honda's engine has been criticized for being underpowered and problematic. Despite a recent points finish by Fernando Alonso, the team is considering a backup plan if Honda does not deliver significant improvements by 2027.
The partnership with Honda has faced challenges, including staff redistribution and design issues that have led to excessive vibrations in the engine. Stroll is aware of the financial implications and is weighing the possibility of returning to Mercedes or switching to Red Bull Powertrains. Meanwhile, Honda's leadership has committed to enhancing their engine's performance, but there are uncertainties about Aston Martin's future engine partnerships and the willingness of other manufacturers to accept them as customers.
via the-race.comWhat next for Aston Martin, Alonso and HondaAston Martin has shown significant improvement in performance, with Fernando Alonso achieving the team's best finish of the season at the Dutch Grand Prix. The new Honda engine has met its initial performance targets, but both drivers have expressed concerns about its driveability, which remains a critical issue for the team as they prepare for future races.
Honda is working on enhancing the engine's calibration and software to address these driveability challenges. Despite some progress, the team acknowledges that further improvements are necessary to unlock the engine's full potential, which could influence Alonso's decision regarding his future with Aston Martin.
via f1oversteer.comF1TV man admits he gets 'anxious' interviewing Lewis Hamilton after a bad raceLawrence Barretto, a presenter for F1TV, has shared his feelings of anxiety when interviewing Lewis Hamilton after challenging races. Hamilton's candid nature has made him a difficult interviewee in the past, particularly during tough moments, but this season has seen a notable change in his attitude following improved performances with Ferrari. Despite this, Barretto still feels apprehensive about how Hamilton will respond after disappointing races.
During the recent Dutch Grand Prix, Hamilton was visibly frustrated with Ferrari's strategic decisions, particularly regarding team orders. He expressed his desire to win and was more articulate in his post-race comments than in previous instances. This shift in Hamilton's demeanor has been recognized by media members, indicating a potential resurgence in his competitive spirit.Page 27 of 41