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via Motorsport.comPoor Red Bull comeback could have ended Liam Lawson's F1 career, says former F1 TV punditLiam Lawson made a significant return to Red Bull during the Dutch Grand Prix, stepping in for Isack Hadjar, who was sidelined due to a wrist injury. Lawson, who had been previously dropped by the team after two races in 2025, faced immense pressure to perform well in this race to secure his future in Formula 1.
During the race weekend, Lawson qualified eighth and finished seventh, showcasing a strong performance that could have saved his career. Commentator Will Buxton emphasized the importance of this comeback, noting that a poor performance could have ended Lawson's time in F1.
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli credits 2025 struggles for stronger 2026 F1 campaignKimi Antonelli has attributed his improved performance in the 2026 Formula 1 season to the challenges he faced during his rookie year in 2025. Currently leading the championship, he has secured multiple victories and has shown significant growth compared to the previous season, where he struggled to score points consistently.
As he prepares for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix, Antonelli reflects on how the difficulties of his first season have made him mentally stronger. Despite facing a power unit penalty for the race, he remains optimistic about his chances and aims to build on his current success.
via Motorsport.comToto Wolff recalls Niki Lauda story about HamiltonDuring a media session at Zandvoort, Toto Wolff discussed the impact of Niki Lauda on Lewis Hamilton's career. He emphasized the importance of maximizing a driver's potential within a Formula 1 team.
via Formula1.comAntonelli interview: The title fight and his Monza mindsetKimi Antonelli is enjoying a successful second season in Formula 1, currently leading the Drivers' Championship with a significant margin over his teammate George Russell and former champion Lewis Hamilton. His impressive performance includes six victories out of seven races won by teenagers, showcasing his talent and consistency throughout the season.
In addition to his championship lead, Antonelli has achieved notable milestones such as his first pole position and Grand Prix win in China, followed by a remarkable five consecutive wins, including a dominant performance in Monaco. Despite facing challenges, he has managed to secure strong finishes, demonstrating his ability to adapt and perform under pressure.
via Motorsport.comGeorge Russell also set for F1 engine penalty – but Mercedes yet to decide whenMercedes is preparing for George Russell to take an engine penalty during the 2026 Formula 1 season, similar to Kimi Antonelli's upcoming penalty at the Italian Grand Prix. The team is evaluating the best timing for Russell's penalty, considering the need to manage engine reliability and performance as the season progresses.
Russell has faced multiple engine failures this season, prompting the need for a full power unit change. While the Italian Grand Prix is a potential venue for the penalty, Baku is also being considered due to its overtaking opportunities. Mercedes aims to strategically plan the penalties to minimize impact on their championship standings.
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 RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli receives 'public eye' advice after 'DJ transformation'Kimi Antonelli is on track to potentially become the 2026 Formula 1 world champion, leading the standings with a significant points advantage. His performance includes seven race victories, which places him ahead of his closest competitors, George Russell and Lewis Hamilton, who are tied for second place. If he secures the title, Antonelli will break the record for the youngest F1 champion, previously held by Sebastian Vettel.
David Coulthard has commented on Antonelli's rise to fame, suggesting that he must adjust to the increased public attention. Coulthard noted that Antonelli's recent experiences, such as being called up on stage by a DJ during a holiday, highlight the new challenges he faces as a well-known figure in the sport. Despite these changes, Coulthard expressed confidence that Antonelli will remain grounded.
via f1oversteer.comNico Rosberg says ‘every single Italian’ has made their choice between Ferrari and Kimi AntonelliKimi Antonelli is set to compete in his second Italian Grand Prix, arriving with a significant lead in the championship standings. Unlike last year, he is now a strong contender for the title, with a 59-point advantage over his closest rivals. Despite facing an engine penalty that will place him at the back of the grid, expectations remain high for his performance at Monza.
Nico Rosberg highlighted the shift in fan support, noting that Antonelli has become a national hero in Italy, surpassing traditional Ferrari favorites. Recent polling indicates that he is the most popular driver in the country, and media coverage is increasingly focused on him, reflecting a changing dynamic in Italian motorsport fandom.
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 RacingNews365Isack Hadjar injury latest as McLaren tie down Lando Norris - RacingNews365 ReviewIn addition to these developments, Haas is actively testing potential driver candidates using older F1 cars, while Mercedes is addressing performance issues highlighted during their recent race, despite securing a double podium. These updates indicate ongoing strategic planning and adjustments within the teams as they prepare for upcoming races.
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 RacingNews365Marc Marquez reveals Isack Hadjar advice which prompted Dutch GP absenceMarc Marquez provided guidance to Isack Hadjar, who was advised to miss the Dutch Grand Prix due to a wrist injury sustained during training. Initially eager to race, Hadjar consulted with Marquez and Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies, ultimately deciding to prioritize his recovery instead of competing at Zandvoort.
Marquez shared his own experience of returning too soon from an injury, which led to significant setbacks in his career. With Hadjar absent, Liam Lawson stepped in to race for Red Bull. The decision reflects a broader understanding of the importance of health and long-term career considerations in motorsport.
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 Motorsport.comGeorge Russell treats Mercedes team members to special Silverstone karting eventGeorge Russell organized a special karting day for 170 members of the Mercedes team at Silverstone, celebrating their recent success at the Dutch Grand Prix. The event was a way to reward staff from both the Brackley and Brixworth bases, and Russell actively participated by racing alongside them and distributing medals at the end of the day.
Currently, Mercedes is performing strongly in the 2026 season, leading the constructors' championship. Russell is positioned second in the drivers' standings, closely trailing his teammate Kimi Antonelli. The next race on the calendar is the Italian Grand Prix, scheduled for early September.
via Motorsport.comMercedes seeks answers after poor high-speed performanceMercedes is analyzing its performance during the Dutch Grand Prix, particularly in high-speed corners. Trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin described the team's pace as unsatisfactory and is seeking explanations for the inconsistencies observed.
via thejudge13.comMercedes reveal W17 problem they still do not understand after ZandvoortMercedes faced challenges during the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, where they struggled with the W17's performance in high-speed corners, particularly Turns 7, 8, and 9. Despite securing a second and third place finish, the team acknowledged that they did not have the fastest car, with Lando Norris of McLaren winning the race by a significant margin. This performance gap has raised questions about the competitive order in Formula 1 as McLaren continues to improve.
The team is currently investigating the inconsistencies in car balance and performance between their drivers, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. Mercedes remains focused on maximizing their package for upcoming races, particularly as they prepare for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. They are also analyzing whether McLaren's recent success reflects a genuine shift in competitiveness or is a result of differing development timelines.
via RaceFansMercedes told Antonelli he would get F1 chance before Hamilton’s exit was announced | Formula 1Andrea Kimi Antonelli disclosed that he was informed by Mercedes about a potential promotion to the Formula 1 team prior to the public announcement of Lewis Hamilton's departure. This decision by Hamilton to join Ferrari was made known in February 2024, coinciding with Antonelli's upcoming 18th birthday. Antonelli's revelation highlights the swift actions taken by Mercedes in response to Hamilton's career move.
The announcement of Hamilton's transfer marked a significant shift in the team dynamics, as he had been a key figure in Mercedes' success. Antonelli's promotion indicates the team's focus on nurturing young talent and preparing for future seasons in Formula 1.Page 35 of 59













