Fernando AlonsoOscar Piastri 
via f1oversteer.comToto Wolff's 'league of his own' comments highlight why Lando Norris is beating Oscar PiastriToto Wolff praised Lando Norris for his exceptional performance during qualifying at the Spanish Grand Prix, where Norris achieved pole position with a remarkable lap time of 1:31.385. Wolff noted Norris' skill in managing rear tyre overheating, especially under challenging hot conditions, which set him apart from his teammate Oscar Piastri.
Despite the compliments, Piastri's ongoing difficulties with tyre management were acknowledged, with McLaren's recent upgrades aimed at addressing these issues. Team principal Andrea Stella has urged Piastri to adapt his driving style to improve his performance, as his struggles have been a recurring theme in his career.
f1oversteer.comMon 21 Sep · 06:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Fernando Alonso reiterates Honda trust desipte 2026 painFernando Alonso has reaffirmed his trust in Honda's Formula 1 project, despite a difficult start to the season for Aston Martin, which has partnered with Honda. Alonso believes that Honda possesses the necessary infrastructure and personnel to succeed, having previously won a championship with Red Bull before leaving F1 at the end of 2021.
Currently, Aston Martin is struggling, having scored only three points and often finding itself at the bottom of the timesheets. Alonso has not yet decided on his future in F1, indicating that his enjoyment of the regulations will influence his decision. He expressed a desire to see improvements in the team's performance within two to three years, rather than the longer timelines experienced in the past.
RacingNews365Sun 20 Sep · 09:05 UTC
via PlanetF1Alonso praises Newey in rare Aston Martin radio exchangeFernando Alonso expressed appreciation for Adrian Newey during a rare radio exchange, highlighting the significance of Aston Martin's 2026 upgrade. Technical director Enrico Cardile noted that Alonso's positive feedback reflects the team's commitment to progress.
PlanetF1+ 1 moreSun 20 Sep · 05:02 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMcLaren engineers think they have fix for one key ‘weakness’ of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri’s carMcLaren is preparing to introduce significant upgrades for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, focusing on enhancing the performance of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri's MCL40 car. These upgrades include a new underbody and a modified version of their Macarena rear wing, aimed at improving the car's aerodynamics, particularly in slow-speed corners where the team has identified weaknesses. The decision on which rear wing to use will be made after practice sessions in Baku.
The upgrades come after a challenging 2025 Azerbaijan GP for both drivers, where Piastri faced multiple issues, including a crash and a poor start. Despite these setbacks, McLaren's engineers are optimistic that the new aerodynamic package will allow Norris and Piastri to compete for pole position. Recent performances have shown that the MCL40 is competitive in medium-speed turns, and the team is looking to build on this momentum as they head into the race weekend.f1oversteer.comSat 19 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via F1iSteiner takes aim at Ben Sulayem over ‘deserving’ AlonsoGuenther Steiner, the former team principal of Haas, has publicly criticized FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem for his comments regarding Fernando Alonso's performance with Aston Martin. Ben Sulayem expressed concern over Alonso's struggles, suggesting it was unacceptable for a two-time world champion to face such difficulties. He indicated a willingness to intervene to help Alonso, which Steiner argues undermines the principle that teams and drivers must earn their success without external assistance from the governing body.
Steiner emphasized that the responsibility for addressing performance issues lies with the teams themselves, not the FIA. He pointed out that other teams, like Cadillac, are also facing challenges without expecting intervention. Steiner's remarks highlight a broader debate about the role of the FIA in supporting struggling teams and the importance of self-reliance within the competitive framework of Formula 1.
F1iSat 19 Sep · 13:06 UTC
via f1oversteer.comRUMOURFernando Alonso hints at potential retirement from F1Fernando Alonso has suggested that he may retire from Formula 1 at the end of the 2026 season, with a possible move to the World Endurance Championship. His recent behaviour during the race at the Madrid circuit has raised speculation about his future in the sport.f1oversteer.com+ 1 moreSat 19 Sep · 11:00 UTCvia RacingNews365Fernando Alonso reflects on his F1 legacyFernando Alonso has expressed pride in his legacy within Formula 1, noting his influence on the sport's popularity in Spain. As the most experienced driver in F1 history, he reflects on the significance of his career.RacingNews365+ 1 moreSat 19 Sep · 08:40 UTC
via gpfans.comFernando Alonso reveals 'shock' after finding out Aston Martin truthFernando Alonso revealed his shock at Aston Martin's performance at the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season, expressing disappointment over the team's competitiveness. Despite high expectations with Adrian Newey's car design and Honda's return, the team struggled with a rushed chassis and engine reliability issues, leaving them near the back of the grid.
In a podcast interview, Alonso shared his thoughts on the team's situation, acknowledging the initial optimism but recognizing the need for improvement. He highlighted the upgrades introduced during the season and expressed hope for better results in the future, emphasizing the talent and motivation within the team to become contenders.
gpfans.comSat 19 Sep · 07:16 UTC
via f1oversteer.comRUMOURFernando Alonso drops fresh hint on F1 future with 'optimistic' verdict on Aston Martin's 2027 carFernando Alonso has indicated that he plans to continue his Formula 1 career with Aston Martin beyond the 2026 season, expressing optimism about the team's future. During an interview, he shared that the team is excited about their plans for 2027 and that they have identified the necessary direction to improve their competitiveness. Alonso emphasized the talent within the team and the motivation to become contenders in the future, despite a challenging start to the season.
Alonso's comments come amid speculation about his retirement, but he appears determined to leave the sport on a high note. With support from FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and a commitment to Aston Martin, Alonso is looking forward to the next chapter of his career. His focus remains on achieving a successful season before potentially retiring, as he seeks to secure one last victory in Formula 1.f1oversteer.comSat 19 Sep · 06:00 UTC
via gpfans.comNico Rosberg reveals the Lance Stroll problem Aston Martin have with Fernando Alonso decisionNico Rosberg has pointed out a significant issue within Aston Martin's driver lineup, which features Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll. The duo has been together for four seasons, with Alonso being the clear lead driver. However, the team is struggling this season, having only accumulated three points, which has raised concerns about their competitiveness. New team principal Adrian Newey and the switch to Honda as a power unit supplier have not yielded positive results so far, leading to calls for a revamp within the team.
Despite these challenges, Rosberg believes that the current pairing of Alonso and Stroll is acceptable for the time being. He noted that while Alonso consistently outperforms Stroll, the team faces a dilemma in finding a younger driver to partner with Alonso, as Stroll's position is secure due to his father's ownership of the team. Alonso's future remains uncertain as he is out of contract at the end of the season and has expressed thoughts about retirement, particularly in light of the team's performance and new regulations in Formula 1.gpfans.comFri 18 Sep · 20:44 UTC
via PlanetF1Hamilton delusion, Antonelli opens door to Ferrari future, Alonso’s $5m buy – roundupFerrari has confirmed a multi-year partnership with Japanese technology company Rakuten, set to begin in the 2027 Formula 1 season. This announcement comes as the team continues to compete in the 2026 season, where they currently hold second place in the constructors' standings with several races remaining.
In addition to the sponsorship news, Kimi Antonelli has expressed that he is not ruling out a future move to Ferrari, despite his current focus on achieving success with Mercedes. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton faces scrutiny following a period of tension within the team, contrasting with the optimism following his win in Barcelona earlier this year. Fernando Alonso has also made headlines by adding a $5 million Bugatti to his car collection.PlanetF1Fri 18 Sep · 18:06 UTC
via f1oversteer.comRUMOURAston Martin man issues 'very lucky' verdict on Lance Stroll's seat at the F1 teamPedro de la Rosa, an ambassador for Aston Martin, expressed that the team is fortunate to have both Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso in their lineup. He highlighted Stroll's insightful feedback, which is crucial for the engineers, and noted that the two drivers work well together. De la Rosa praised Alonso's experience and ability to prioritize improvements during practice sessions, showcasing why he is a two-time world champion.
Despite facing criticism regarding his position in F1, Stroll has demonstrated his capability on the track, achieving notable results including three podium finishes. His near victory at the 2020 Turkish Grand Prix is a highlight of his career, although he has faced challenges, including speculation about his future in the sport after the 2023 season.f1oversteer.comFri 18 Sep · 18:00 UTC
via the-race.comThe real reason Russell and Piastri are struggling in F1 2026In the 2026 Formula 1 season, drivers like George Russell and Oscar Piastri are facing significant challenges due to a mismatch between their driving styles and the new car and tire regulations. Russell finished fifth in the Madring race, significantly behind his teammate Kimi Antonelli, and noted that his struggles stem from how he drives compared to the demands of the current generation of cars. He observed that drivers who are performing well, such as Antonelli, Lewis Hamilton, and Lando Norris, share similar driving styles that align better with the 2026 car characteristics.
The article discusses how the reduced downforce and tire grip of the 2026 cars have raised the crossover point of circuit grip, making certain driving techniques less effective. While Russell and Piastri tend to drive with a geometric ideal that works well on high-grip tracks, they struggle as grip decreases. In contrast, drivers like Hamilton and Norris have adapted their styles to better manage energy and grip, allowing them to perform more effectively. Ultimately, Russell and Piastri must adjust their approaches to keep pace with their competitors in this evolving racing landscape.
the-race.comFri 18 Sep · 09:11 UTC
via RacingNews365Fernando Alonso hands Aston Martin 'no urgency' point over retirement decisionFernando Alonso has indicated that he is not in a hurry to make a decision about his future with Aston Martin for the 2027 Formula 1 season. The two-time champion has yet to commit to the team, which is eager to continue their partnership despite a challenging season where the AMR26 car has only secured three points, all attributed to Alonso.
Alonso mentioned that he is evaluating the upcoming changes in regulations and how they might affect his driving experience. He expressed the importance of understanding the new cars before deciding whether to continue racing or take on another role within the team, emphasizing collaboration with Aston Martin in making this decision.RacingNews365Fri 18 Sep · 08:40 UTC
via PlanetF1Fernando Alonso car collection: $11.7m eye-watering Pagani Zonda Roadster Diamante Verde on the listFernando Alonso, a two-time Formula 1 World Champion, has an impressive car collection that includes several high-value vehicles. His latest addition is a Pagani Zonda Roadster Diamante Verde, valued at approximately $11.7 million. Other notable cars in his collection include the Aston Martin Valkyrie, which he received in September 2024, and a limited-production Lamborghini Sian, among others.PlanetF1Fri 18 Sep · 07:17 UTC
via PlanetF1Fernando Alonso splashes out $5 million in eye-watering new purchaseFernando Alonso has expanded his impressive car collection by purchasing a Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse for $5 million. This unique supercar features an aluminum body and a striking red interior, making it the most expensive Bugatti Veyron to date. Alonso was seen taking delivery of the vehicle in Monaco, where onlookers watched as he drove away in the eye-catching machine. The Veyron boasts a top speed of 233 mph and can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 2.6 seconds.
In addition to the Bugatti, Alonso's collection includes a bespoke Pagani Zonda 760 Roadster valued at around $11.7 million, a $10 million Mercedes CLK GTR, and a $3.5 million Aston Martin Valkyrie. As he enjoys his new purchase, Alonso is also contemplating his future in Formula 1, particularly regarding the sport's engine regulations. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has expressed interest in discussing Alonso's potential retirement and the future direction of F1 engines, which may shift towards more internal combustion engine power by 2031.PlanetF1Fri 18 Sep · 07:16 UTC
Wikimedia Commons · Off The Track Media · CC BY 2.0Hulkenberg open to racing beyond 40Nico Hulkenberg has expressed his willingness to continue racing in Formula 1 beyond the age of 40, as he prepares to race with Audi through 2027. Having recently turned 39, he is currently one of the older drivers on the grid, alongside Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton. Hulkenberg indicated that his future in the sport will depend on his performance and motivation levels.
In his comments, Hulkenberg praised Alonso's impressive performance at his age and highlighted the importance of being happy and motivated to compete. He also dismissed any excessive nostalgia for the older, lighter F1 cars, suggesting that drivers adapt to the current vehicles and that idealizing the past is not realistic.newsonf1.comFri 18 Sep · 06:33 UTC
via F1iDe la Rosa: Stroll ‘unbeatable in many corners’ – as fast as AlonsoPedro de la Rosa, an ambassador for Aston Martin, expressed strong support for Lance Stroll, claiming he is as fast as teammate Fernando Alonso in many corners. De la Rosa emphasized that Stroll is often unbeatable on certain circuits and highlighted his impressive race pace and tire management skills. However, he acknowledged that Stroll has faced challenges in qualifying, which have affected his overall performance.
Despite de la Rosa's glowing remarks, the statistics tell a different story, with Alonso significantly outperforming Stroll in qualifying and points scored. Stroll's recent record of 100 Q1 eliminations raises questions about his qualifying consistency, contrasting with de la Rosa's assertion that Stroll is a world-class driver when the car is performing optimally.F1iThu 17 Sep · 10:49 UTC
via gpfans.comMartin Brundle claims he would AXE Fernando Alonso from Aston MartinMartin Brundle has expressed that Aston Martin should consider moving on from Fernando Alonso, who is currently weighing his options regarding retirement or continuing for another season. Despite hopes for a competitive 2026 season following chassis upgrades and the signing of Adrian Newey, the team has struggled with performance, sitting at the bottom of the Constructors' standings with only three points.
While Aston Martin is not pressuring Alonso for a quick decision, Brundle believes the team should focus on rebuilding with younger drivers. Team ambassador Pedro De La Rosa acknowledges the existence of a backup plan should Alonso retire but emphasizes the importance of allowing him time to decide. Alonso's recent performance at the Dutch Grand Prix showcased his abilities, but the team's future direction remains uncertain.gpfans.comThu 17 Sep · 08:45 UTC
via PlanetF1Alonso requests Aston Martin review over ‘very bad’ Honda issues at Spanish GPFernando Alonso has called for an investigation into the Honda engine performance following a disappointing race at the Spanish Grand Prix, where he finished in 17th place. He reported significant issues with the engine, particularly with boost control, which hindered his performance and caused him to lose time during the race.
Meanwhile, his teammate Lance Stroll also faced difficulties, retiring from the race due to a brake pedal issue after sustaining damage from debris. Stroll's struggles contributed to Aston Martin's ongoing challenges this season, as they currently sit in 10th place in the Constructors' standings with only three points.PlanetF1Thu 17 Sep · 04:59 UTC
via f1oversteer.comFernando Alonso’s unheard Spanish GP radio shows Carlos Sainz owes him an apologyDuring the recent Spanish Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz was penalized for an incident involving Fernando Alonso, which led to a heated exchange between the two drivers. Sainz expressed his frustration, claiming Alonso's radio complaints were an attempt to influence the stewards' decision against him.
Alonso's radio messages revealed that he felt Sainz had squeezed him into the wall, and he communicated this to his race engineer. Despite the tension, both drivers had a challenging race, with Sainz retiring early and Alonso finishing far down the order.f1oversteer.comWed 16 Sep · 12:30 UTC
via PlanetF1Brundle and Rosberg in fresh disagreement over Fernando Alonso F1 futureIn September 2026, Martin Brundle proposed that Aston Martin should consider replacing Fernando Alonso with younger drivers as part of a team rebuild. This suggestion sparked a disagreement with Nico Rosberg, who defended Alonso's performance against teammate Lance Stroll, arguing that Alonso still outperforms Stroll consistently.
Alonso is contemplating his future in Formula 1, weighing options between continuing until 2027 or retiring after the current season. Despite the uncertainty, he has expressed a desire to stay with Aston Martin, emphasizing that his enjoyment of racing is his primary motivation, rather than the team's results.PlanetF1Wed 16 Sep · 11:30 UTC
via grandprix.comMcLaren aims to help Piastri regain competitive edgeAndrea Stella stated that McLaren has a clear agenda to help Oscar Piastri unlock his potential as he adjusts to the 2026 car. Stella noted that improving Piastri's qualifying and execution is essential for him to close the performance gap to his teammate Lando Norris.grandprix.com+ 1 moreWed 16 Sep · 10:57 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 star issues Zak Brown apology after getting it badly wrong about Oscar PiastriRomain Grosjean has publicly apologized to Zak Brown after mistakenly misquoting the McLaren CEO regarding Oscar Piastri's performance. Grosjean's initial comments suggested that Brown had criticized Piastri as being slower than his teammate Lando Norris, which caused a stir online. However, Brown's actual remarks indicated that Piastri was competitive but did not achieve the same lap time as Norris during qualifying.
Oscar Piastri, who is currently experiencing a challenging season, sits seventh in the Drivers' standings, significantly trailing Norris. Following a disappointing eighth-place finish at the Spanish Grand Prix, Grosjean quickly retracted his comments and expressed regret for the misunderstanding, emphasizing the importance of fair treatment for drivers within the McLaren team.gpfans.comTue 15 Sep · 20:45 UTC