Fernando AlonsoJuan Pablo MontoyaLewis Hamilton
via CrashToto Wolff cautious about Kimi Antonelli's title chancesMercedes has stated it is too early to favor either Kimi Antonelli or George Russell in the 2026 Formula 1 title race. The team emphasizes the importance of a healthy rivalry between its drivers while acknowledging Antonelli's current lead.
Crash+ 4 moreFri 14 Aug · 15:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Lewis Hamilton ‘worst car we’ve built’ comment recalled by VestiFrederik Vesti, a reserve driver for Mercedes, recalled a comment made by Lewis Hamilton about the 2022 W13 car, which Hamilton described as the 'worst car we've built'. Vesti's experience with the current W17 at the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix was notably different, as he expressed confidence in the car's performance, highlighting Mercedes' strong position in the Constructors' Championship and Antonelli's lead in the Drivers' Championship.
Vesti, who joined the Mercedes junior program in 2021, noted the challenges of transitioning from simulator driving to real-life conditions. He performed well in his FP1 session, finishing seventh, and is set to return to the W17 after the summer break, indicating a positive trajectory for both him and the team.
PlanetF1Fri 14 Aug · 11:02 UTC
via PlanetF1F1 driver net worth 2026: Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen top list with huge fortuneThe article outlines the net worth of Formula 1 drivers for the year 2026, highlighting Lewis Hamilton as the wealthiest driver. It details the financial standings of various drivers, noting their salaries and sponsorship deals that contribute to their overall net worth.
Several drivers, including Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc, are mentioned for their significant earnings and lucrative sponsorships. The report emphasizes the financial landscape of F1, where drivers earn substantial salaries and have numerous endorsements, making it a highly lucrative sport.
PlanetF1Fri 14 Aug · 09:52 UTC
via Sky Sports F1RUMOURWill Verstappen, Alonso trigger F1 'silly season' chaos?The article discusses the potential impact of Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso's decisions on the Formula 1 driver market, known as the 'silly season.' Verstappen has not committed beyond the current season, which has led to speculation about his future, particularly with Mercedes and McLaren showing interest. Alonso, meanwhile, is contemplating retirement as he approaches 46, with his performance at Aston Martin being a key factor in his decision.
As both drivers weigh their options, their choices could trigger significant changes within the teams and the broader driver market. Other drivers and team principals are closely monitoring the situation, as the outcomes could lead to a cascade of movements in the driver lineup across the grid.
Sky Sports F1Fri 14 Aug · 09:44 UTC
via Sky Sports F1Why has Hamilton received so many penalties and what have they cost him?Lewis Hamilton has faced a series of penalties over the last three race weekends, impacting his performance and standing in the Drivers' Championship. He currently trails Kimi Antonelli by 50 points after receiving penalties for various infractions, including a false start, a collision with George Russell, and speeding in the pit lane. His penalties have resulted in significant points lost, particularly during the Hungarian Grand Prix where he finished fourth despite potential for a better result.
Hamilton has expressed frustration over the consistency of the penalties, suggesting that some were unjustified. He acknowledges the need to avoid further mistakes to remain competitive in the championship race. The upcoming Dutch Grand Prix presents an opportunity for Hamilton to regain momentum as the season continues.
Sky Sports F1Fri 14 Aug · 09:44 UTC
via Sky Sports F1Vasseur reveals 'most important' target for Ferrari after F1 summer breakFerrari's team principal, Fred Vasseur, has identified key areas for improvement as they aim to support Lewis Hamilton's bid for the drivers' championship. Currently, Hamilton is 50 points behind Kimi Antonelli, and while Ferrari has shown some recent performance gains, they need to enhance their engine and execution to remain competitive in the second half of the season.
As the 2026 season resumes after the summer break, Vasseur emphasized the importance of maintaining development momentum, particularly in chassis upgrades. With 12 races left, Ferrari is determined to close the gap to Mercedes and capitalize on Hamilton's consistent performance to keep their championship hopes alive.
Sky Sports F1Fri 14 Aug · 09:44 UTC
via RacingNews365Fernando Alonso seeking complex F1 change after algorithm impactFernando Alonso has called for changes to the algorithms that govern energy deployment in Formula 1, emphasizing the need for improvements to enhance driver control. He highlighted that the reliance on these algorithms can disrupt performance, particularly during critical moments like corner exits and starts, suggesting that the current system does not allow drivers to operate independently as intended by regulations.
Alonso pointed out that while F1 has historically involved team-specific advantages, the current algorithms require a reevaluation to ensure fair competition. He is optimistic about future discussions regarding regulatory changes, including potential adjustments for the 2026 season and beyond, which could lead to a better understanding of the sport's evolving needs.
RacingNews365Fri 14 Aug · 08:10 UTC
via PlanetF1Max Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli at centre of Montoya Malaysia predictionThe Sepang Circuit in Malaysia will host the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix, marking F1's return to the venue for the first time since 2017. This change is due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, and it has led to a unique race weekend setup. Juan Pablo Montoya has predicted that championship leader Kimi Antonelli and Max Verstappen will perform exceptionally well at this popular track, which he regards as his favorite. Antonelli currently holds a significant lead in the Drivers' Championship, while Verstappen is the last winner at Sepang from 2017.
The race weekend at Sepang will be part of a triple-header, following races in Baku and Singapore, resulting in a busy schedule of six races over seven weekends. Montoya highlighted the importance of bravery for drivers to succeed at Sepang, indicating that both Verstappen and Antonelli possess the skills needed to navigate its challenges effectively. This strategic adjustment by F1 aims to ensure a full championship despite the circumstances affecting the original race location.
PlanetF1Fri 14 Aug · 08:07 UTC
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton names 'pressure' thrill missing from F1 combatLewis Hamilton has voiced his concerns regarding the current state of Formula 1 racing, specifically noting that the thrill of pressure during wheel-to-wheel combat is lacking in some races. He attributes this to the new power dynamics introduced in 2026, where cars will rely more heavily on battery systems, affecting the racing experience on various circuits. Hamilton believes that this change diminishes the skill required for competitive racing, particularly on traditionally challenging tracks like Suzuka and Silverstone, which he now views as less demanding due to their fast-flowing sections being utilized as 'charging stations.'
In his remarks, Hamilton expressed disappointment over the reduced challenge and excitement in racing, particularly at circuits where overtaking is difficult, such as Monaco. He emphasized that his passion lies in the competitive aspect of racing rather than qualifying, and he longs for the thrill of battling against other drivers. The article highlights Hamilton's perspective on how the evolving dynamics of F1 are impacting the essence of racing and the enjoyment it brings to drivers.
RacingNews365Fri 14 Aug · 04:30 UTC
via PlanetF1RUMOURLewis Hamilton receives apology from ‘coward’, Graeme Lowdon’s last Cadillac interview – roundupLewis Hamilton has received an apology from UFC fighter Jon Jones, five years after Hamilton labeled him a 'coward' for shooting a pig. This apology comes after Jones acknowledged Hamilton's disappointment in his actions. Meanwhile, Graeme Lowdon has departed from his role as Cadillac's team principal, with the team yet to score points in their inaugural F1 season. Cadillac's CEO clarified that Lowdon's exit was not a mutual decision and that the change in leadership had been in the works for some time.
In other news, Jenson Button revealed that Michael Schumacher valued Rubens Barrichello's engineering expertise during their time at Ferrari. Button, who raced alongside Barrichello from 2006 to 2009, emphasized Barrichello's significant contribution to car development. Additionally, there are rumors surrounding Sergio Perez's future, with speculation linking him to a potential move to Williams for the 2027 season.
PlanetF1Thu 13 Aug · 18:33 UTC
via Motorsport WeekUFC star apologises to Lewis Hamilton over feud triggered by hunting videoJon Jones has issued a public apology to Lewis Hamilton, stemming from a confrontation over a hunting video that occurred five years ago. The incident involved Jones shooting a pig from a helicopter, which deeply offended Hamilton, a long-time vegan and animal rights advocate. Following the incident, Hamilton condemned Jones' actions in a private message and subsequently blocked him on social media. Jones expressed his desire to reconcile and acknowledged Hamilton's disappointment in him during a recent interview.
In his apology, Jones reflected on the hunting experience and the negative impact it had on his relationship with Hamilton. He conveyed regret for his actions and reached out directly to Hamilton, hoping to clear the air. As of now, Hamilton has not publicly responded to the apology, while he continues to focus on his racing career, currently sitting second in the 2026 Drivers' Standings for Ferrari.
Motorsport WeekThu 13 Aug · 14:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Leclerc and Hamilton Compete in Tight 2026 F1 RivalryCharles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton are currently involved in a closely contested rivalry as teammates in the 2026 Formula 1 season. Both drivers have shown significant performance improvements, with Hamilton aiming for a title challenge after a strong summer break.
RacingNews365Thu 13 Aug · 11:50 UTC
via thejudge13.comMontoya predicts Stroll may leave Aston Martin by 2028Juan Pablo Montoya has suggested that Lance Stroll could depart from Aston Martin if the team's performance does not improve. He indicated that both Stroll and Fernando Alonso might face uncertain futures with the team as early as the 2028 season.
thejudge13.com+ 1 moreThu 13 Aug · 07:30 UTC
via RacingNews365RUMOURMax Verstappen comments on Fernando Alonso's futureMax Verstappen has shared his thoughts on the speculation surrounding Fernando Alonso's future in Formula 1. He suggested that Alonso's decision regarding retirement may be less complicated than it seems.
RacingNews365+ 1 moreThu 13 Aug · 07:15 UTC
via PlanetF1‘Disappointed’ Lewis Hamilton receives apology after blocking ‘coward’Hamilton, a staunch advocate for animal rights, has maintained a vegan lifestyle since 2017 and was recognized by PETA as their Person of the Year in 2018. As of August 2026, he is competing in the F1 season, currently in second place, trailing behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli by 50 points after achieving his first victory with Ferrari earlier in the season.
PlanetF1Thu 13 Aug · 05:56 UTC
via Motorsport WeekEx-F1 star makes bold Lance Stroll retirement predictionAston Martin has faced a challenging season, grappling with technical issues and poor performance. Montoya's comments reflect concerns about the team's future and the likelihood of Stroll's departure if improvements are not made. Both Stroll and teammate Fernando Alonso have had difficulty scoring points, raising questions about their long-term commitment to the sport.
Motorsport WeekWed 12 Aug · 17:58 UTC
via CrashLewis Hamilton rates his 2026 F1 season performanceLewis Hamilton has shared his assessment of his performance in the first half of the 2026 Formula 1 season. He provided a surprising rating, particularly in light of the competitive landscape posed by Ferrari.
Crash+ 1 moreWed 12 Aug · 08:44 UTC
via PlanetF1Lance Stroll ‘will’ leave Aston Martin if F1 car fails to improveJuan Pablo Montoya has suggested that Lance Stroll may exit Aston Martin if the team's performance does not improve, particularly after a disappointing first half of the 2026 season. Stroll has yet to score any points this season, and the team currently sits in 10th place in the Constructors' Championship, with upgrades planned for the AMR26 and a new Honda power unit debuting soon. Meanwhile, Fernando Alonso's future remains uncertain, but he is expected to make a decision regarding his contract after the summer break.
Despite the team's struggles, Montoya believes that Stroll's departure could happen as early as 2028 if the situation does not change. Alonso's enjoyment of racing, rather than the team's competitiveness, will influence his decision to stay or leave. The upcoming upgrades and performance improvements will be crucial for both drivers' futures with Aston Martin.
PlanetF1Wed 12 Aug · 07:04 UTC
via f1technical.netDoes everyone share Hamilton's concerns regarding the simulator's accuracy?Lewis Hamilton has expressed concerns about the accuracy of Formula 1 simulators, leading him to reduce his time using them. Other drivers, including Max Verstappen, Alex Albon, and Esteban Ocon, shared their views on the effectiveness of simulators, particularly in relation to car setup and engine performance. Albon highlighted the importance of accurate tyre models and vehicle dynamics for trusting simulator data, while Ocon noted that Haas has made progress on the engine side but still faces challenges with chassis correlation.
The drivers acknowledged that while simulators remain valuable for team development, their role in chassis setup has decreased compared to previous seasons. Verstappen pointed out that despite the potential monotony of simulator sessions, they are crucial for engineers to evaluate new concepts and adapt to ongoing technical updates in the sport. Overall, the consensus is that while simulators are important, their accuracy and correlation with real-world performance are critical for effective use.
f1technical.netTue 11 Aug · 20:00 UTC
via Motorsport WeekJuan Pablo Montoya Questions Hamilton's Eighth Title ChancesFormer F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has expressed doubts about Lewis Hamilton's ability to secure an eighth World Championship. This skepticism comes despite Hamilton's strong performance in his second season with Ferrari.
Motorsport WeekTue 11 Aug · 15:06 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli's Growth Acknowledged by Mercedes LeadershipKimi Antonelli has shown significant improvement in his second Formula 1 season, earning praise from Mercedes management. Key figures within the team attribute his development to factors such as maturity, experience, and the guidance of Peter Bonnington.
Motorsport.com+ 1 moreTue 11 Aug · 13:29 UTC
via PlanetF1Lewis Hamilton’s eighth title hopes questioned despite Ferrari resurgenceFormer F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has expressed skepticism about Lewis Hamilton's chances of winning a record-breaking eighth world title, despite Hamilton's recent resurgence with Ferrari. After a challenging previous season, Hamilton has secured multiple podium finishes this year, including a victory at the Barcelona Grand Prix, and currently sits second in the Drivers' standings, trailing Kimi Antonelli by 50 points.
Montoya believes Hamilton is comfortable with his performance and does not foresee him becoming a world champion again. He also predicts that Hamilton will remain in F1 for a few more years, but raises concerns about Ferrari's future driver lineup and the potential for new talent to emerge, which could affect Hamilton's position within the team.
PlanetF1Tue 11 Aug · 11:02 UTC
via PlanetF1RUMOURDoes Oliver Bearman need a ‘Plan B’ after Lewis Hamilton’s resurgence?Bearman has been linked to Red Bull and Aston Martin, with both teams reportedly keeping an eye on him. While he acknowledges the rumors, Bearman remains focused on his current role with Haas and expresses a strong desire to eventually drive for Ferrari, the team he feels deeply committed to and supported by since the beginning of his career.
PlanetF1Tue 11 Aug · 06:02 UTC
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton 'problem' highlighted with George Russell comparisonLewis Hamilton has shown a remarkable improvement in his performance during the current Formula 1 season, highlighted by his victory in the Spanish Grand Prix and a strong position in the drivers' standings. This contrasts sharply with his struggles in the 2025 season, where he faced significant challenges while driving for Ferrari. George Russell, Hamilton's teammate, has also encountered difficulties this year, raising questions about his pursuit of a championship title.
Former F1 driver Thierry Boutsen drew parallels between the challenges faced by both Hamilton and Russell, emphasizing issues of self-confidence and car performance. He expressed confidence in Russell's potential to learn from these setbacks, citing the importance of analyzing problems to improve. Boutsen's insights reflect a broader understanding of the complexities in Formula 1, where even top drivers must navigate periods of adversity to achieve success.
RacingNews365Tue 11 Aug · 05:25 UTC