Helmut MarkoMax VerstappenRalf Schumacher 
via f1oversteer.comJock Clear has seen a ‘Michael Schumacher-esque’ trait in Kimi Antonelli even Max Verstappen lackedJock Clear, a long-time Ferrari performance engineer, has expressed admiration for Andrea Kimi Antonelli, likening his ability to engage fans to that of Michael Schumacher. Antonelli, who is currently leading the 2026 Formula 1 standings with eight wins, has captured the hearts of Ferrari supporters, particularly after his victory at Monza, making him the first Italian to win there since 1966.
Clear noted that Antonelli's impressive performance this season, including his ability to avoid major mistakes, sets him apart from his competitors, including George Russell. Despite facing some reliability issues, Antonelli's consistent results have positioned him as a strong contender for the championship, potentially making him the youngest F1 champion in history.
f1oversteer.comThu 24 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via Formula1.comGeorge Russell tops FP2 in Baku ahead of team-mateGeorge Russell set the fastest time during the second practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix at the Baku City Circuit. He was followed closely by Mercedes team-mate Kimi Antonelli and Red Bull's Max Verstappen.
Formula1.com+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 13:21 UTC
via Formula1.comGeorge Russell leads Kimi Antonelli in FP2 in BakuGeorge Russell of Mercedes topped the second practice session for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing ahead of championship leader Kimi Antonelli. Russell's performance in Baku showcased his team's strong form ahead of the race weekend.Formula1.com+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 11:49 UTC
via Motorsport.comWhat Kimi Antonelli has learned from Max VerstappenKimi Antonelli, the 20-year-old Mercedes driver, has been learning valuable lessons from Max Verstappen, who has praised Antonelli's impressive performances this season. With eight wins under his belt, Antonelli leads his teammate George Russell significantly in the championship standings. Verstappen, currently sixth in the standings, has encouraged Antonelli to maintain his current approach as he continues to develop his skills.
Antonelli has specifically noted Verstappen's exceptional racecraft, particularly his ability to read situations and position his car effectively. He reflected on a recent race in Madrid, where he learned the importance of maintaining track position and the potential to capitalize on opportunities, as demonstrated by Verstappen. Antonelli's observations of Verstappen's adaptability and performance under pressure have further inspired him in his own racing career.
Motorsport.comThu 24 Sep · 11:15 UTC
via grandprix.comAlonso proposes longer, gentler electric boost for F1Fernando Alonso has proposed a change to the 2026 Formula 1 cars, advocating for a reduction in peak electrical output to allow for longer use of battery power on straights. He believes this adjustment would enable drivers to maintain speed more effectively towards corners, contrasting with the current model that requires drivers to lift and coast before braking.
Max Verstappen supports Alonso's view but warns that simply reducing electrical output could lead to a decrease in overall power unless compensated by an increase in combustion engine contribution. Both drivers acknowledge that any changes would require consensus and testing before being implemented in the regulations.grandprix.comThu 24 Sep · 10:47 UTC
via PlanetF1George Russell leads Azerbaijan Grand Prix FP2 sessionGeorge Russell of Mercedes topped the second practice session for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku, following an early red flag. Max Verstappen expressed frustration over ongoing issues affecting his performance during the session.
PlanetF1+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 09:37 UTC.jpg%3Fwidth%3D480&w=128&q=70)
Wikimedia Commons · Steffen Prößdorf · CC BY-SA 4.0Verstappen targets Nurburgring, Spa endurance racesMax Verstappen has announced his intention to participate in major endurance races at the Nurburgring and Spa in 2027, as the Formula 1 calendar will not clash with these events. He expressed his desire to return to the Nordschleife after a previous race and highlighted Spa as another appealing option, although he remains uncertain about competing in Le Mans due to its demanding preparation requirements.
Lando Norris is also getting involved in endurance racing, having recently driven McLaren's new prototype for the World Endurance Championship. However, other F1 drivers like Nico Hulkenberg and Fernando Alonso have expressed skepticism about adding endurance races to their schedules, citing the busy calendar as a significant barrier to participation.newsonf1.comThu 24 Sep · 06:48 UTC
via RacingNews365Fernando Alonso casts doubt over dream Max Verstappen partnershipFernando Alonso has expressed skepticism about teaming up with Max Verstappen for the 2027 24 Hours of Le Mans. Although both drivers have previously shown interest in collaborating, Alonso believes it is unrealistic at this time due to Verstappen's busy racing schedule.
While Alonso is open to the possibility of a future partnership, he does not foresee it happening next year. He emphasized that the decision would depend on Verstappen's availability, as he participates in numerous races throughout the year.
RacingNews365Thu 24 Sep · 06:00 UTC
via thejudge13.comRed Bull announces driver decision for 2027Red Bull Racing has confirmed that Isack Hadjar will continue with the team for the 2027 Formula 1 season, partnering with Max Verstappen. This decision comes after Hadjar's impressive performance in 2026, where he achieved seven consecutive top-six finishes and a podium at the Monaco Grand Prix. Red Bull's CEO, Laurent Mekies, expressed confidence in Hadjar's abilities and his integration into the team, making the contract extension a straightforward choice.
Hadjar's announcement coincides with his return from a wrist injury that sidelined him for three races. He has completed rehabilitation and is set to compete in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The young French driver expressed excitement about continuing with Red Bull, highlighting the team's ambition and the privilege of racing alongside a four-time World Champion like Verstappen. Hadjar focused on his performance on track rather than contract negotiations, indicating his commitment to proving himself.
thejudge13.comWed 23 Sep · 18:36 UTC
via f1oversteer.comRUMOURRalf Schumacher urges Aston Martin not to waste time and take action over Honda ‘embarrassment’Ralf Schumacher has called on Aston Martin to take decisive action regarding their Honda engine, which he describes as an 'embarrassment' following their struggles for consistent power. Despite debuting a new Honda engine at the Dutch Grand Prix, the team has not seen the expected improvements, leading to speculation about a potential switch to Mercedes or Red Bull engines.
During a podcast, Schumacher expressed his concerns about Honda's performance and suggested that Aston Martin should explore other engine suppliers without delay. He believes that while Audi could be a contender, Mercedes would be a safer bet for the team. Schumacher emphasised the need for Aston Martin to eliminate sources of error, particularly in their gearbox, to compete effectively in Formula 1.f1oversteer.comWed 23 Sep · 17:30 UTC
via CrashMax Verstappen’s “unknown quantity” highlighted by F1 rival in title chaseAndrea Kimi Antonelli, the current leader in the Formula 1 championship, has described Max Verstappen as an 'unknown quantity' ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Antonelli, who has a significant 81-point lead over his Mercedes teammate George Russell, is on track to potentially become the youngest world champion in F1 history after securing eight victories in the first 14 races of the season.
Despite Verstappen's struggles this year, Antonelli acknowledged the Dutch driver's exceptional ability to read race situations and find opportunities. As Antonelli prepares for the upcoming race, he remains focused on maintaining his performance and not underestimating the competition, emphasizing that the championship is not decided until the final race.
CrashWed 23 Sep · 16:28 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen onboard of Baku City Circuit lapThe Baku City Circuit is known for its unique layout, featuring a long straight that provides significant overtaking opportunities, particularly at Turn 1. The circuit's narrow sections, especially in the castle area, present a challenging test for drivers navigating the tight confines of Baku's old town.
Max Verstappen showcases the circuit in the official F1 25 video game, updated for the 2026 season. This onboard lap highlights the extremes of the track, combining high-speed sections with tight corners, making it one of the most exciting street circuits on the Formula 1 calendar.RacingNews365Wed 23 Sep · 16:05 UTC
via Motorsport WeekMax Verstappen makes Le Mans decision amid 2027 F1 calendar gapMax Verstappen has confirmed he will not make his Le Mans debut in 2027, despite the Formula 1 calendar allowing for participation in the race. He stated that while he enjoys endurance racing, Le Mans is not currently on his agenda, focusing instead on returning to the Nürburgring and possibly competing at Spa.
Verstappen's recent experiences in endurance racing have included multiple outings at the Nürburgring, where he has expressed a strong desire to improve upon past performances. As he prepares for the upcoming races, he remains committed to his Formula 1 career, currently sitting sixth in the drivers' standings.
Motorsport WeekWed 23 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comVerstappen indifferent to Monaco Sprint race announcementMax Verstappen expressed his lack of concern regarding the announcement of the Sprint race at the Monaco Grand Prix, stating he feels 'no emotion attached to it.' The Red Bull Racing driver has previously voiced his disdain for the Sprint format in Formula 1.Motorsport.com+ 1 moreWed 23 Sep · 14:39 UTC
via f1oversteer.comRalf Schumacher fears Oliver Bearman could become a ‘wasted talent’ after suffering a ‘huge blow’Ralf Schumacher has voiced his worries regarding Oliver Bearman's potential to become a 'wasted talent' while driving for Haas in 2026. After a promising start to the season, Bearman has struggled to score points, with his last points finish occurring at the Montreal Grand Prix. Schumacher believes that Bearman needs to secure a move away from Haas to continue his development as a Formula 1 driver.
Bearman, who debuted with Ferrari in 2024, has been highly regarded in the paddock, with interest from Red Bull before they secured Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar for 2027. As Bearman's contract with Ferrari is set to expire at the end of 2026, the pressure is on for him to make a significant career decision soon, especially as Schumacher fears that remaining at Haas could hinder his potential.f1oversteer.comWed 23 Sep · 14:00 UTC
via gpfans.comMax Verstappen and Kelly Piquet toast baby joy: 'Fantastic mate!'Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet celebrated the birth of a new family member, Otto Suarez Piquet, born to NASCAR driver Daniel Suarez and Kelly's sister, Julia. The couple announced their pregnancy in April, and Otto's arrival adds to the family's growing collection of children.
Max, who is a proud father to his daughter Lily, shared his joy on social media, calling it a fantastic time for Daniel. Kelly also expressed her eagerness to spoil her new nephew, highlighting the strong family ties within the motorsport community, as both families have a rich racing heritage.
gpfans.comWed 23 Sep · 12:57 UTC
via PlanetF1Max Verstappen at Le Mans? F1 calendar reveals growing GT potentialMax Verstappen is keen to return to GT racing, especially after a strong performance at the Nürburgring 24 Hours, where he nearly won. The 2027 Formula 1 calendar offers him opportunities to participate in several endurance races, including the iconic Le Mans 24 Hours, which takes place shortly after the Monaco Grand Prix.
Verstappen's potential 2027 racing calendar includes events like the Rolex 24 At Daytona and the Bathurst 12 Hour. He has previously shown interest in these races, and with the schedule allowing for these outings, he is likely to pursue them. His involvement in GT racing could be significant, especially with his team running a Mercedes-AMG GT3.PlanetF1Wed 23 Sep · 07:04 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen hails former F1 rival: 'Destined for greater things'Max Verstappen has expressed admiration for former Formula 1 driver Robert Kubica, stating that he was 'destined for greater things' in the sport. Verstappen highlighted Kubica's talent and the unfortunate circumstances that hindered his career after a life-threatening crash in 2011, which prevented him from achieving his potential in F1.
Kubica made a return to F1 in 2019 with Williams but later transitioned to endurance racing, where he found success by winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans with Ferrari. Verstappen, who closely follows endurance racing, shared his happiness at seeing Kubica achieve this significant milestone.RacingNews365Wed 23 Sep · 04:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLaurent Mekies shares the 'doubts' that nearly stopped Max Verstappen extending his Red Bull contractMax Verstappen had serious doubts about his future with Red Bull, contemplating a move to another team or even retirement at the end of 2026. However, after discussions regarding the implications of new regulations and assurances about the team's competitiveness, he ultimately decided to extend his contract with Red Bull until 2030.
Laurent Mekies, Red Bull's team principal, highlighted that Verstappen's concerns were addressed through collaborative efforts with Formula 1 and the FIA. The changes in engine regulations, which will shift the balance towards more internal combustion engine dependency, played a crucial role in restoring Verstappen's confidence in the sport and his team.f1oversteer.comTue 22 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comF1 teams must not help Honda after seeing them dominate the sport with Max VerstappenHonda is facing significant challenges in the 2026 Formula 1 season, particularly with their partnership with Aston Martin, which has led to discussions about potential replacements for their underperforming engine. Rival teams have previously provided financial assistance to Honda, fearing their exit from the sport, but there is now caution about offering too much support due to Honda's history of dominance with Max Verstappen from 2021 to 2024.
As the F1 landscape prepares for a shift in engine regulations favouring internal combustion engines starting in 2027, there are concerns that if Honda receives additional backing, they could quickly regain their competitive edge. This has led to a divided opinion among teams, with some advocating for caution to prevent Honda from leveraging any support to become a dominant force once again.f1oversteer.comTue 22 Sep · 18:00 UTC
via gpfans.comMax Verstappen makes decision on racing series switch despite success of father JosMax Verstappen has decided against switching to rally car racing, citing safety concerns as a new father. Despite his father's success in rallying, including winning the Belgian Rally Championship in 2025, Verstappen believes the risks associated with rallying are too high, especially given the potential for serious accidents.
Verstappen has committed to Formula 1, having signed a new contract with Red Bull last month. He has explored other racing formats, such as GT racing, but maintains that rallying is not a viable option for him at this stage in his life. His family generally supports his racing decisions but would likely intervene if he pursued rallying.gpfans.comTue 22 Sep · 16:27 UTC
via grandprix.comRUMOURSchumacher reads new confidence in Norris title chargeRalf Schumacher believes that Lando Norris has shown increased confidence in the 2026 Formula 1 title race, suggesting that he may have received coaching to enhance his public persona. Schumacher's observations are based on Norris's recent assertive comments and improved performances, particularly regarding his position among the highest-paid drivers in the sport.
Despite Schumacher's speculation, there is no concrete evidence to confirm that Norris has employed a coach. The true test of Norris's capabilities will come during the upcoming race in Baku, where his performance against teammate Oscar Piastri and other title contenders will provide a clearer picture of his championship prospects.grandprix.comTue 22 Sep · 12:08 UTC
via gpfans.comBaffling Max Verstappen F1 issue cannot be fixed admit Red BullRed Bull Racing's team principal, Laurent Mekies, has admitted that they are struggling to resolve a long-standing performance issue with Max Verstappen's RB22 car. Throughout the 2026 season, Verstappen has expressed concerns about the car's performance degradation, particularly at the rear, leading him to describe it as 'a car made of paper.' Despite efforts to investigate the problem, Mekies confirmed that they have not yet found satisfactory answers.
The issue has been ongoing and appears to have carried over from previous Red Bull models, even after the regulatory changes implemented this year. Mekies noted that while they have made some progress in understanding the problem, a complete resolution is unlikely before 2027. He emphasised that they are actively working on the issue and hope to build a foundation for future improvements.gpfans.comTue 22 Sep · 08:45 UTC
via RacingNews365Juan Pablo Montoya suggests karting challenge for 2026Juan Pablo Montoya has proposed that the 2026 Formula 1 drivers participate in a karting challenge similar to one previously undertaken by Max Verstappen. Montoya believes this would be an entertaining spectacle for fans.RacingNews365+ 1 moreTue 22 Sep · 05:25 UTC