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via Motorsport WeekRed Bull addresses complex issue with Max Verstappen's carRed Bull Racing has acknowledged a 'complex' issue affecting Max Verstappen's RB22 as they work to resolve it. Team principal Laurent Mekies indicated that the situation poses a risk of a winless season for the team in 2026.
Wed 16 Sep · 09:00 UTC
via espn.comVerstappen on Max vs 100: 'Embarrassing' to loseMax Verstappen is set to compete in an event called 'Max vs 100' at Silverstone, where he will race against 100 go-karters. The competitors will come from various backgrounds, including Red Bull athletes and fans, all driving identical karts to ensure fairness. Verstappen will start at the back of the grid and aims to overtake all participants within 30 laps, with those overtaken being eliminated from the race.
Despite not having driven a go-kart since 2016, Verstappen is confident in his skills and preparation for the event. He acknowledges the challenge of racing against so many competitors but believes his extensive background in racing will give him an advantage. Verstappen has expressed that it would be embarrassing if he were to lose to the amateurs, emphasizing the importance of the event to him.
Wed 16 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via gpfans.comMax Verstappen's 'GP' replacement confirmed as new race engineer to take over at Red BullMax Verstappen's long-time race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, is set to leave Red Bull Racing for McLaren by 2028. In preparation for this transition, Tom Hart has been confirmed as Verstappen's new race engineer, taking over for Lambiase. Hart is expected to debut in this role during three races in the 2026 season, including the US Grand Prix and the Las Vegas Grand Prix. He had previously been close to leaving Red Bull for a position at Williams but was retained by the team after intervention from team principal Laurent Mekies.
In addition to Hart's appointment, Red Bull has also secured Tom McCullough as their new Head of Racing, who will join from Aston Martin in 2027. The timing of Lambiase's transition to McLaren is still being finalized, with reports indicating that McLaren CEO Zak Brown is working to establish a definitive start date to avoid a lengthy gardening leave for Lambiase.
Wed 16 Sep · 07:14 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLaurent Mekies disagrees with Max Verstappen’s verdict on the Madring after Spanish Grand PrixThe Madring circuit received significant criticism during its inaugural Spanish Grand Prix, with many drivers expressing concerns about its layout and overtaking opportunities. Max Verstappen labeled the track a 'car killer' and noted the challenges it posed, while Nico Rosberg highlighted the lack of exciting racing. Despite these issues, Liam Lawson managed to execute a notable overtaking maneuver, but the race was largely seen as uneventful, with Kimi Antonelli taking the victory ahead of Verstappen.
In contrast to Verstappen's negative view, Laurent Mekies, Red Bull's team principal, expressed optimism about the Madring's potential to become an iconic race in Formula 1. He commended the event's organization and the circuit's diverse layout, suggesting that it has the elements necessary for a memorable race. Mekies believes that with further improvements, the Madring could evolve into a significant venue in the F1 calendar.
Tue 15 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Lando Norris makes major car swap as Max Verstappen title requirement revealed - RacingNews365Lando Norris has recently tested McLaren's new hypercar, which is scheduled to compete in the World Endurance Championship starting next year. This marks a significant step for McLaren as they expand their racing portfolio beyond Formula 1.
In related news, Toto Wolff has outlined what he believes Max Verstappen will require to contend for the championship in 2027, likely against Kimi Antonelli. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton's title aspirations have dwindled significantly, with his points gap increasing to 101 after a challenging series of races.
Tue 15 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen urged to fight back in controversial Madrid decision verdictDuring the Spanish Grand Prix, Max Verstappen's decision to relinquish two positions to Kimi Antonelli and Lewis Hamilton has sparked debate among fans, with a slight majority believing it was a mistake. The incident occurred on the first lap when Verstappen avoided a collision with Hamilton, leading to Red Bull's instruction to give back the positions to prevent a potential penalty from the stewards.
The race took a turn when a virtual safety car was triggered by Lance Stroll's brake failure, which affected Lando Norris's pit strategy. Norris, who was leading, could not pit in time and ultimately lost the race to Antonelli, while Verstappen capitalized on the situation to finish second. The outcome raises questions about whether Verstappen's early decision to give up positions was the right call, especially considering Hamilton's subsequent retirement.Tue 15 Sep · 15:20 UTC
via RacingNews365Toto Wolff reveals Max Verstappen need for 2027 F1 title tiltToto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes, has outlined what Max Verstappen requires to compete for the championship in 2027. Currently, Verstappen is positioned sixth in the drivers' standings, significantly trailing Kimi Antonelli, who leads the championship. Wolff noted that while Verstappen is an exceptional driver, he needs a top-performing car and engine to be a contender for the title.
Wolff also addressed the impressive performance of Antonelli, who has secured eight wins this season, including notable victories in Japan and Monza. However, he cautioned against drawing direct comparisons between Antonelli and Verstappen, emphasizing the difference in experience and achievements between the two drivers. Wolff's comments highlight the importance of machinery in determining championship outcomes.Tue 15 Sep · 14:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLaurent Mekies reveals what Max Verstappen ‘always’ said during Red Bull contract meetingsMax Verstappen has officially extended his contract with Red Bull Racing until 2030, surprising many as he had previously considered options with McLaren and Mercedes. His earlier contract was set to end in 2028, but he had a clause that could have allowed him to leave after the 2026 season. Despite Red Bull's struggles this season, where Verstappen is currently sixth in the standings, he expressed a strong desire to remain with the team during negotiations, according to team principal Laurent Mekies.
Mekies emphasized that Verstappen's commitment to Red Bull was clear from the start of their discussions. While Verstappen was evaluating his options, including the possibility of retirement due to dissatisfaction with the 2026 regulations, he ultimately chose to stay with Red Bull. Mekies acknowledged the responsibility the team has to provide Verstappen with a competitive car, as his main goal remains to win races and championships.Tue 15 Sep · 12:30 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell makes major Max Verstappen claimGeorge Russell has expressed that Max Verstappen is encountering a different set of challenges in the current Formula 1 season compared to previous years. He points out that the new generation of cars has shifted the competitive landscape, making team-mate battles more unpredictable. Russell, who is currently second in the drivers' championship, notes that drivers like Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris are performing at higher levels, which contrasts with the past dominance of Verstappen over his team-mates.
Russell emphasizes that this season has seen a closer competition among drivers, including his own struggles against team-mate Kimi Antonelli. He mentions that Verstappen's team-mates, Isack Hadjar and Liam Lawson, are significantly closer in points than what has been typical for Verstappen in recent seasons. Russell attributes this shift to the similar driving styles of the current top drivers, suggesting that the balance of power has changed in the sport.Tue 15 Sep · 08:40 UTC
via RacingNews365Lando Norris aims for future Le Mans 24 Hours entryMax Verstappen, Lando Norris, and Fernando Alonso have indicated interest in competing at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the future. Lando Norris recently completed a test in Hypercar machinery, further fueling speculation about his participation.Tue 15 Sep · 06:20 UTC
via f1technical.netMekies opens up on "painful" moment in Madrd raceRed Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies praised Max Verstappen for extracting “absolutely everything” from the RB22 after the Dutchman secured second place at the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid.
Mon 14 Sep · 23:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton investigation underway as Max Verstappen reveals quit thoughts - RacingNews365 ReviewFerrari has launched a thorough investigation into the brake system failure that led to Lewis Hamilton's early exit from the Spanish Grand Prix. This incident has raised concerns about the reliability of the team's equipment and its impact on race outcomes.
In other news, Max Verstappen revealed that he had seriously considered leaving Formula 1 before committing to a new deal with Red Bull that extends through 2030. Additionally, former F1 driver Romain Grosjean issued an apology for misrepresenting comments regarding Oscar Piastri, while Jody Scheckter faced a significant legal loss related to a tax dispute.Mon 14 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via grandprix.comVerstappen says he seriously considered quitting F1Max Verstappen revealed that he contemplated leaving Formula 1 before deciding to extend his contract with Red Bull until 2030. His previous deal was set to last until 2028, and he clarified that his decision was not about switching teams but rather about potentially exiting the sport altogether. Despite facing challenges with the new regulations, Verstappen expressed that he still enjoys racing and believes the team is making progress.
At 28 years old and already a four-time world champion, Verstappen feels no pressure to prove himself further. He emphasized that his continued participation in Formula 1 hinges on his enjoyment of the sport, rather than chasing statistics. The extension of his contract secures his immediate future, but he has not committed to a retirement timeline, leaving the door open for his career to evolve based on his satisfaction with racing.
via f1oversteer.comMartin Brundle suggests simple F1 rule change after virtual safety car ‘robbed’ Lando NorrisAfter the Spanish Grand Prix, Martin Brundle expressed that Lando Norris was unfairly deprived of victory due to the timing of a virtual safety car (VSC). Norris, who had been leading the race, lost his advantage when the VSC allowed competitors Kimi Antonelli and Max Verstappen to pit without losing time. Both drivers acknowledged that they did not deserve to win under those circumstances, highlighting the impact of race conditions on outcomes.
Norris suggested a potential rule change to ensure that the VSC remains in effect for at least one lap, allowing all drivers the opportunity to pit. Brundle agreed with this proposal, noting that it could create a fairer racing environment, although it might reduce the amount of full-speed racing time. The discussion around the VSC's timing and its implications for race fairness is set to be addressed in an upcoming drivers' briefing.Mon 14 Sep · 17:00 UTC
via Formula1.comMekies explains decision to ask Verstappen to give back placesDuring the Spanish Grand Prix, Max Verstappen was instructed by Red Bull to relinquish positions after an early clash with Lewis Hamilton. Despite his initial resistance, Verstappen complied and later managed to finish the race in second place after Hamilton's retirement due to brake issues.
Red Bull's Team Principal, Laurent Mekies, justified the decision to ask Verstappen to give back places, emphasizing that it was better to take a minor penalty than risk a larger one later. Following the race, Verstappen's performance left him sixth in the Drivers' Championship, while Red Bull sits fourth in the Constructors' standings.
Mon 14 Sep · 12:46 UTC
via espn.comLando Norris criticises Virtual Safety Car rulesLando Norris has described the Virtual Safety Car rules as 'unfair' after losing the Spanish Grand Prix to Kimi Antonelli. Norris held a six-second lead when the Virtual Safety Car was deployed, which ultimately affected his race outcome.+ 1 moreMon 14 Sep · 11:00 UTC
via grandprix.comRed Bull's car degradation may continue in 2027Red Bull Racing is facing ongoing issues with car degradation, as highlighted by Max Verstappen's comments regarding the RB22's performance loss during races. Team principal Laurent Mekies acknowledged that this problem is complex and has been persistent, indicating that a solution is unlikely to be found before the 2027 season.
The team made some progress in a recent race in Madrid, but the underlying issues remain unresolved. As they prepare for upcoming races, Red Bull is also developing a new car that may carry over some of the existing performance challenges.
via f1oversteer.comLawrence Stroll Mercedes rumours ‘alarmed’ Honda before they replaced F1 engine bossHonda has decided to replace Tetsushi Kakuda with his deputy Yoichiro Fukao as the leader of their F1 project, effective next month. This change comes after a poor start to their partnership with Aston Martin, which is currently struggling in the standings due to both the performance of Honda's power unit and issues with their chassis design.
Lawrence Stroll has been negotiating with Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains to explore alternative engine options, aiming to pressure Honda into improving their performance. The recent disappointing results have prompted Honda to reaffirm their commitment to F1, with promises of enhanced competitiveness in the upcoming season.Mon 14 Sep · 10:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comWho slept best last night: Lando NorrisLando Norris faced a disappointing outcome at the Spanish Grand Prix, where he lost what seemed to be a certain victory due to a virtual safety car triggered by Lance Stroll's car. Norris had a comfortable lead of six seconds over Kimi Antonelli but was unable to capitalize on a pit stop opportunity when the safety car was deployed, ultimately leading to his loss of position and the race win.
Despite the setback, Norris remained optimistic and acknowledged his team's performance, expressing confidence in his ability to continue delivering strong results. He reflected on the nature of racing luck, noting that he too had benefited from fortunate circumstances in the past, and emphasized his growth as a driver since his first win in Miami.
Mon 14 Sep · 05:16 UTC
via PlanetF1Spanish GP conclusions: Imaginary Hamilton challenge over, Norris joins elite, soulless MadringKimi Antonelli secured his eighth victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season at the Spanish Grand Prix, solidifying his lead in the championship standings. His win came after Lando Norris, who was leading, lost his position due to a virtual safety car, allowing Max Verstappen to finish second. Antonelli's performance has positioned him as a strong contender for the world championship, with a significant points gap over his closest rival, George Russell.
Lando Norris has demonstrated significant growth as a driver, particularly highlighted by his recent victory at the Dutch Grand Prix. His ability to seize opportunities on the track has improved, as evidenced by his strategic overtaking of Antonelli during that race. With his recent performances, Norris is now regarded as one of the elite drivers in Formula 1, showcasing a newfound confidence that has elevated his racing capabilities.
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