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via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen proposes changes to F1 race weekendsMax Verstappen has outlined his vision for improving Formula 1, suggesting the elimination of Friday practice sessions. The Red Bull Racing driver believes these changes would enhance the overall experience of the Grand Prix weekend.
via racer.comHadjar notes performance gains at Red Bull after injuryIsack Hadjar stated that his time off due to injury provided him with clarity regarding Red Bull's development direction. Upon his return, he immediately noticed an improvement in the performance of Red Bull's car.
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen picks overtake on Oscar Piastri as his favourite from his whole F1 careerMax Verstappen has declared his overtake on Oscar Piastri during the 2025 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix as his favourite move of his Formula 1 career. The Dutch driver executed the pass around the outside at the first chicane, a challenging overtaking spot, and went on to win the race by six seconds. He noted that the move was unexpected, particularly as Piastri braked earlier than anticipated.
In a discussion on the 'P1 with Matt and Tommy' YouTube channel, Verstappen reflected on the significance of the overtake, stating it was a pivotal moment in the race. Piastri acknowledged Verstappen's skill in the move, admitting he misjudged the situation. The overtake has since been recognised as the Overtake of the Year, highlighting Verstappen's prowess in wheel-to-wheel racing.
via RacingNews365Pirelli faces challenges at Bahrain Grand Prix in MalaysiaPirelli is preparing for unique challenges at the Bahrain Grand Prix, which will take place in Malaysia for the first time in nine years. Charles Leclerc recorded the fastest time during the second free practice session at Sepang International Circuit.
via f1oversteer.comOscar Piastri told why he’s ‘not a racer’ like Max Verstappen after getting caught ‘asleep’ in BakuOscar Piastri faced criticism following his performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where a lock-up at turn one caused him to finish in thirteenth place. This incident occurred during a safety car restart while he was attempting to overtake George Russell, and it ultimately led to a disappointing race for McLaren, especially with teammate Lando Norris also facing issues.
Commentators like Christijan Albers and Jacques Villeneuve pointed out Piastri's lack of aggression and focus, suggesting he is not as competitive as drivers like Max Verstappen. Piastri has now gone eleven races without a podium, and with the next race at Sepang approaching, he is in urgent need of a turnaround in form to salvage his season.
via RacingNews365Isack Hadjar dismisses Red Bull restrictions: 'I'm not five years old'Isack Hadjar has responded to suggestions that Red Bull might impose restrictions on his extracurricular activities following a wrist injury he sustained while training. He humorously remarked that he is not a child and can make his own decisions, despite acknowledging the need to be more cautious in the future.
The injury, which occurred while boxing a punchbag, caused Hadjar to miss several races, including the Dutch Grand Prix. Red Bull has confirmed that they will retain him for the 2027 season, and Hadjar expressed confidence in managing his activities without needing oversight from the team.
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc ‘angered’ Fred Vasseur with one revelation in Baku as tensions rise at FerrariFerrari team principal Fred Vasseur expressed frustration with Charles Leclerc after the driver revealed he used the ADUO2 engine during the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Leclerc's admission came after he finished in P4, trailing significantly behind race winner George Russell and the Red Bull drivers. Vasseur was particularly displeased as the team had not intended to disclose the engine specification, especially given their performance issues.
The situation has contributed to rising tensions within Ferrari, with both Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton reportedly growing frustrated with Vasseur's management style. There are suggestions that Vasseur's position may be in jeopardy, with potential replacements including Christian Horner, Antonello Coletta, and Jerome d’Ambrosio being considered as Ferrari looks to improve its standing in the championship.
via Sky Sports F1Kimi Antonelli and George Russell in title showdownKimi Antonelli has stated his intention to 're-establish the order' over George Russell at the upcoming Bahrain Grand Prix, as the two Mercedes drivers compete for the 2026 Formula 1 Drivers' Championship. With eight rounds remaining, Russell believes Antonelli is now 'under pressure' following recent performances.
via PlanetF1Max Verstappen live reaction as Russell reveals Mercedes upgrade planMax Verstappen shared his thoughts on George Russell's announcement regarding Mercedes' upcoming upgrades, which are expected to debut at the Bahrain Grand Prix. Verstappen acknowledged that if these upgrades prove effective, it would make Red Bull's path to victory in the 2026 season even more challenging.
Russell, who recently won the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, expressed excitement about the potential improvements. He mentioned that the Mercedes team has been quiet in the development race but is optimistic about the upgrades enhancing their performance. Verstappen, while confident in his team's capabilities, recognised the need for further improvements to maintain their competitive edge.
via RacingNews365Engine guru confirms Max Verstappen was right: 'I already had this view'Max Verstappen has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the current Formula 1 power units, arguing that they require excessive energy management, making the driving experience less authentic. His concerns have been echoed by renowned engine designer Mario Illien, who agrees that the balance between combustion and electric power is flawed, stating that the current setup diminishes the driver's role in racing.
Illien, who has extensive experience in F1 engine design, supports a shift in the power unit ratio that the FIA is considering, moving from a 52/48 split to a 58/42 ratio. However, he cautions that while this change may improve the situation, it will not fully resolve the underlying issues. Illien reminisces about the previous power unit configuration, which he believes was more effective and better received by fans.
via Motorsport.comWhy Mercedes thought Max Verstappen was "on some sort of massive bungee cord" in Azerbaijan GPDuring the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, George Russell initially created a significant lead over Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar, but the deployment of a safety car changed the race dynamics. After the safety car, Verstappen managed to close the gap and challenged Russell, leading to a nail-biting finish where only 0.196 seconds separated them at the line.
Mercedes deputy team principal Bradley Lord remarked on Verstappen's ability to catch up, likening it to being on a 'massive bungee cord'. Despite Russell's superior speed in the second sector, Verstappen's straight-line speed allowed him to stay close. The race highlighted the intense competition and strategic nuances of Formula 1, with Russell managing to maintain his lead despite the pressure.
via F1iGeorge Russell believes he can challenge Kimi AntonelliGeorge Russell expressed confidence in his ability to compete for the Formula 1 title, stating he is no longer 'lost' in his Mercedes. After reducing Kimi Antonelli's championship lead from 81 points to 66, Russell feels invigorated and ready to take on the challenge.
via Formula1.comWho impressed our Power Rankings judges in Azerbaijan?George Russell had an outstanding performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, clinching pole position by eight tenths of a second and converting it into a race victory despite pressure from Max Verstappen, who recovered from eighth on the grid to finish second. Isack Hadjar, returning from injury, impressed with a third-place finish, marking his first podium in Formula 1.
The race saw several notable performances, including Esteban Ocon's charge from 14th to eighth and Ollie Bearman's solid ninth-place finish for Haas. Pierre Gasly faced disappointment after being taken out by his teammate Franco Colapinto. Carlos Sainz's penalty dropped him from ninth to 14th, while Sergio Perez expressed satisfaction with his performance despite finishing 14th.
via thejudge13.comVerstappen warns Mercedes upgrade could change Red Bull’s picture againMax Verstappen expressed caution regarding Red Bull's competitive position following their recent success at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Despite finishing on the podium alongside teammate Isack Hadjar, Verstappen warned that Mercedes' upcoming upgrades could shift the competitive landscape, making it difficult for Red Bull to maintain their advantage.
Verstappen acknowledged that while the RB22 showed improved balance in Baku, there are still underlying issues that need addressing. He emphasised the importance of maximising opportunities each weekend and highlighted the need for ongoing development to ensure Red Bull remains competitive against rivals like Mercedes.
via Formula1.com'Less pressure on me than there is him' – Russell on titleGeorge Russell expressed that he feels less pressure in the ongoing Drivers' Championship compared to his teammate Kimi Antonelli. After winning the Grand Prix in Baku, Russell reduced Antonelli's lead to 66 points, having previously trailed by 81 points. Antonelli's crash during qualifying significantly impacted his performance, allowing Russell to capitalize on the situation and secure a crucial victory.
Russell reflected on his recent form, stating that he did not consider himself a contender for the title until now. He noted that despite a challenging start to the season, his performance has improved significantly. The article draws parallels to last season's championship battle, suggesting that Russell's current deficit is not insurmountable, especially if he continues to perform well.
via PlanetF1Lewis Hamilton defends George Russell after Baku restartLewis Hamilton has come to the defence of George Russell following scrutiny over his management of the chaotic restart during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The incident has sparked discussions among drivers and the FIA regarding the handling of such situations.
via the-race.comPirelli aims for higher tyre degradation in 2027Pirelli is working to increase tyre degradation for the 2027 Formula 1 season, following instances where drivers could race almost flat-out for extended periods. The goal is to reduce the number of races that can be completed with a single pit stop.
via f1technical.net"There was little opportunity to relax at any stage of the race," claims Mercedes ...George Russell secured a commanding victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, converting his pole position into a win despite facing pressure from Max Verstappen in the closing laps. The race featured two Safety Car periods that challenged Russell's lead, but he managed to hold on for the win, marking an important return to the top step of the podium for him and Mercedes.
Kimi Antonelli also had a notable performance, recovering from a difficult qualifying session that left him in P16. He climbed through the field to finish fifth, showcasing his determination and skill. Mercedes Trackside Engineering Director Andrew Shovlin praised both drivers for their performances, highlighting the team's strong pace throughout the weekend and their ability to maximize opportunities during the race.
via RaceFansRed Bull denies Isack Hadjar chance to overtake VerstappenRed Bull Racing instructed Isack Hadjar not to attempt an overtake on his teammate Max Verstappen during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. This communication was made through an unbroadcast message, leaving viewers unaware of the team orders in play.
via thejudge13.comVeteran Italian F1 journalist backs Hamilton for Ferrari team leader roleFrom High Spirits to Paddock Frustration The Lewis Hamilton we see in the paddock after the summer break is not the same happy-go-lucky, super-positive chap who was there earlier in the season. After a year where he was welcomed by his new Ferrari teammate, Charles Leclerc, the seven-time champion appeared to be enjoying himself much ... Read morePage 8 of 62