News1252 stories
RSS ↗
via RacingNews365Verstappen says retirement was closer than changing teamsMax Verstappen has disclosed that he was closer to retiring from Formula 1 than switching teams when he signed his contract extension with Red Bull until 2030. This announcement puts to rest any speculation regarding a potential move to a rival team.
+ 3 moreThu 20 Aug · 10:50 UTC
via f1oversteer.comGuenther Steiner warns George Russell he’ll end up back ‘in the midfield’ if he doesn’t improveGuenther Steiner has issued a warning to George Russell regarding his performance in the 2026 Formula 1 season, stating that he risks falling back into the midfield if he does not improve. As the season progresses, Russell finds himself significantly behind his teammate Kimi Antonelli, facing challenges such as mechanical issues and a lack of competitive pace. Steiner believes that the expectations placed on Russell by Mercedes were misguided, especially given Antonelli's strong performance under the new regulations.
Steiner further commented that Russell should focus on securing his position as the number two driver within the team rather than aiming for the top spot. He noted that Russell is aware of the urgency to enhance his results, as his future with Mercedes could be at stake. The possibility of Max Verstappen replacing Russell in the future has also been mentioned, highlighting the pressure on Russell to deliver better performances in the upcoming races.
Thu 20 Aug · 10:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comLewis Hamilton and Ferrari called out by former F1 driver for "pretty sloppy" errorsFormer F1 driver Jolyon Palmer has called out Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton for failing to capitalize on Mercedes' vulnerabilities, particularly highlighting a series of costly mistakes. Palmer noted that despite Kimi Antonelli's reliability issues, Ferrari has missed key opportunities to close the gap in the championship standings, which currently sees Antonelli leading Hamilton by 50 points with 12 races left in the season.
Palmer specifically mentioned penalties incurred by Hamilton, including a jump start and an early pit lane speed limiter release, as examples of 'sloppy' errors that could have affected their performance. While he praised Hamilton's driving skills, he suggested that a lack of concentration may be contributing to these mistakes. Palmer emphasized the need for Ferrari to maximize their points if they hope to compete for the championship title.
Thu 20 Aug · 09:15 UTC
via CrashMax Verstappen's net worth as he signs new contractMax Verstappen has extended his contract with Red Bull Racing, ensuring his presence in Formula 1 until 2030. This deal solidifies his status as one of the highest-paid athletes globally, with significant earnings from both racing and endorsements. Despite a challenging 2026 season, he continues to perform well, securing podium finishes amid competition from other teams like Mercedes and McLaren.
Verstappen's financial standing is impressive, with a reported net worth that places him third among F1 drivers, following Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso. His earnings reflect his success on the track and his growing popularity, as he ranks among the top athletes worldwide according to Forbes. The financial figures highlight the lucrative nature of F1 contracts and the commercial opportunities available to top drivers.
Thu 20 Aug · 08:55 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen reflects on Dutch Grand Prix farewellThe Dutch Grand Prix is set to take place for the final time at Zandvoort in 2026. This weekend's race will feature the unveiling of the last trophies awarded for the event.Thu 20 Aug · 08:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLewis Hamilton expected to extend Ferrari contract to 2027Lewis Hamilton is anticipated to extend his contract with Ferrari through 2027. An official announcement regarding the extension may be made before the upcoming Monza race.+ 1 moreThu 20 Aug · 08:00 UTC
via gpfans.comRed Bull chief issues shocking statement about 'undriveable' Max Verstappen carRed Bull's technical director Pierre Wache has expressed serious concerns about the performance of the RB22 car, labeling it as 'undriveable' and indicating a lack of confidence in its capabilities. Max Verstappen, currently sixth in the championship standings, has managed to secure three podiums recently, but he admitted to not fully understanding how he achieved a second-place finish in Hungary, highlighting the car's difficulties. The team is under pressure to improve and retain Verstappen's commitment for the 2027 season amid these challenges.
As the team prepares for the Dutch Grand Prix, they will be without Isack Hadjar due to injury, with Liam Lawson stepping in as his replacement. Wache pointed out that while Red Bull is not where they want to be, they are making progress and trying to understand the issues with the car. The upcoming race is significant as it marks the last Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort for the foreseeable future, adding to the pressure on the team to perform well.
Thu 20 Aug · 07:15 UTC
via RacingNews365Lando Norris airs 'opposite' George Russell observation after F1 reality shockLando Norris has commented on George Russell's current struggles in the 2026 Formula 1 season, suggesting that Russell is experiencing a contrasting situation compared to his own journey during the 2025 season. While Russell started strong by winning the Australian Grand Prix, he has faced challenges since then, including a power unit issue and strong competition from teammate Kimi Antonelli, who has dominated the early races of the season.
Norris, who has shared a competitive history with Russell, reflected on how Russell's confidence may be waning as he deals with the pressures of performance and expectations. Norris himself overcame early difficulties in 2025, gaining confidence over time, and he empathizes with Russell's current predicament, emphasizing the importance of finding personal strategies to cope with pressure in Formula 1.Thu 20 Aug · 05:25 UTC
via the-race.comHas Russell already blown his big title chance?"It's starting to look like his goose is cooked." Can George Russell bounce back in the second half of the F1 season, or has he blown his chance?
Thu 20 Aug · 05:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi Antonelli gives dismissive response as Mercedes warn him about emotional radio messagesKimi Antonelli, currently leading the 2026 Formula 1 season by 50 points, has received warnings from Mercedes regarding his emotional radio messages during races. Despite having won six races, he has had moments of losing his cool, particularly during a race against teammate George Russell, which prompted team principal Toto Wolff to intervene. Antonelli's response to the team's concerns reflects a mix of humor and maturity, as he acknowledges his youth and Italian background.
Mercedes has been actively working with Antonelli to help him manage his emotions, especially after a challenging rookie season. He has drawn inspiration from tennis star Roger Federer on how to handle pressure, focusing on controlling what he can and maintaining a balanced mindset. The team recognizes his potential and is committed to supporting his development as a driver.Wed 19 Aug · 17:00 UTC
via f1technical.netMercedes warns of inevitable grid penalties as power unit allocations come under pressureMercedes is facing potential grid penalties for drivers George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli as they approach the limits of their Power Unit allocations in the 2026 Formula 1 season. Reliability issues earlier in the season have complicated their situation, with Antonelli already reaching limits on several components and Russell needing a new engine due to a water leak. Despite winning eight of the first 11 races, the team acknowledges that maintaining their championship advantage may require strategic decisions regarding when to accept penalties.
The team is currently assessing how to manage their Power Unit situation while remaining competitive. Mercedes has demonstrated strong performance across various circuits, but the reliability problems have forced both drivers to deviate from their original Power Unit plans. As the season progresses, the team must decide when to take penalties to ensure both drivers have enough fresh components to finish the season effectively.
Wed 19 Aug · 13:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen signs contract extension with Red BullMax Verstappen is set to compete in what he describes as his final Dutch Grand Prix in 2026 after recently signing a contract extension with Red Bull. This decision has implications for the driver market, particularly among the top teams in Formula 1.+ 2 moreWed 19 Aug · 10:00 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell relieved by Mercedes power unit discoveryGeorge Russell has expressed relief after discovering that his performance struggles in the 2026 Formula 1 season were linked to a Mercedes power unit issue. This revelation has reassured him that his difficulties were not entirely due to his driving style.+ 1 moreWed 19 Aug · 08:50 UTC
via RacingNews365Charles Leclerc points to hidden 'implications' amid F1 strugglesCharles Leclerc has faced a challenging season in Formula 1, initially starting strong with podium finishes but experiencing significant struggles, particularly during the Canadian GP. However, he made a notable comeback by winning the British GP and finishing second in Belgium, highlighting a breakthrough in performance.
Leclerc discussed the complexities of the new 2026 cars, explaining that drivers often cannot fully understand the implications of their struggles due to numerous variables. He stressed the importance of adaptability in driving style and cautioned against aggressive approaches that may not suit his team's car setup.Wed 19 Aug · 07:55 UTC
via RaceFansA home win for Verstappen? A propaganda win for Putin? Seven Dutch GP talking points | Formula 1The FIA's decision to ease restrictions on Russian competitors in motorsport, four and a half years after the invasion of Ukraine, has sparked controversy. This change allows Russian athletes to compete under their national flags, reversing previous measures that aimed to prevent the exploitation of motorsport for propaganda purposes.
Wed 19 Aug · 06:15 UTC
via BBC SportKimi Antonelli's early driving talent recognised by fatherKimi Antonelli, a rising star in Formula 1, showcased his driving skills from a young age. His father recognized his exceptional talent when he began driving at just three years old.
+ 1 moreWed 19 Aug · 06:06 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen surprised at F1 rivals for wasteful 'not real' actionsMax Verstappen has expressed his surprise at the tactics employed by some of his Formula 1 rivals, which he perceives as wasteful. He noted that while these drivers expend energy in battles, he is able to overtake them effortlessly, highlighting a shift in the dynamics of racing where overtakes are often executed on straights rather than through skillful maneuvers in corners. This has led to a phenomenon he describes as 'yo-yo racing', where positions frequently change without meaningful competition.
Verstappen believes that this style of racing may mislead non-racing fans into thinking that there are more overtakes than there truly are. He prefers a more traditional approach to overtaking, emphasizing the skill involved in braking rather than relying on energy management. His comments reflect a concern that the essence of racing is being diluted, as he feels the current methods do not align with what true racing should represent.Wed 19 Aug · 05:25 UTC
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton praises Ferrari collaboration for 2026Lewis Hamilton has expressed a renewed sense of purpose upon returning to Ferrari for the 2026 Formula 1 season. He attributes his recent success to a collaborative effort with the team, which he believes has significantly contributed to his performance.+ 3 moreWed 19 Aug · 04:30 UTC
via grandprix.comIsack Hadjar to miss Dutch Grand Prix due to injuryIsack Hadjar will not participate in the Dutch Grand Prix due to a wrist injury sustained during training. Red Bull Racing has confirmed that a replacement driver will take his place for the race.
via grandprix.comFIA confirms no ban on Macarena rear wingsThe FIA has concluded its safety review and will not prohibit the use of the 'Macarena' rear wing in Formula 1. This decision follows recent concerns raised after crashes involving driver Max Verstappen.Page 50 of 63