Lance StrollSergio Pérez 
via PlanetF1Lance Stroll receives 30-place grid penalty in BahrainThe FIA has confirmed that Lance Stroll will face a 30-place grid penalty following an investigation into incidents during the Bahrain Grand Prix. The stewards' decision comes as part of a broader enforcement of penalties for drivers running wide during the race.
PlanetF1+ 1 moreFri 2 Oct · 07:57 UTC
via gpfans.comLawrence Stroll acknowledges Aston Martin's engine issuesLawrence Stroll has stated that Aston Martin is currently missing two seconds in engine performance, which is impacting their competitiveness. He emphasised the team's commitment to winning but acknowledged the challenges they face in achieving that goal.
gpfans.comThu 1 Oct · 11:57 UTC
via CrashLance Stroll highlights two-second deficit with HondaLance Stroll has expressed concern over Aston Martin's performance, stating the team is currently missing two seconds in engine performance compared to competitors. This follows Honda's recent engine upgrade, which Stroll described as insufficient to close the gap.
Crash+ 2 moreThu 1 Oct · 08:50 UTC
via Motorsport.comRUMOURLaurent Mekies credited with ending Red Bull's second seat "curse"Laurent Mekies, the Team Principal of Red Bull Racing, has been credited with transforming the team's culture, which has reportedly helped Isack Hadjar thrive in his role. Will Buxton highlighted that Mekies has replaced the historically ruthless environment with a more supportive atmosphere, allowing drivers to perform better without excessive pressure.
Hadjar, who was promoted to Red Bull in 2026, impressed in his first race back after recovering from a wrist injury, finishing third. The change in management style under Mekies is seen as a significant factor in lifting what was referred to as Red Bull's second seat 'curse', which had previously troubled the team in finding a suitable teammate for Max Verstappen.
Motorsport.comThu 1 Oct · 07:00 UTC
via the-race.comThe slowest race of F1 2026 explainedValtteri Bottas has detailed his significant pace issues during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where he was over 1.7 seconds slower per lap than his Cadillac teammate Sergio Perez. Bottas crashed on the final lap after struggling with car setup and power steering issues throughout the race, leading to a lack of competitiveness. He acknowledged that he was unable to keep up with the pack and faced difficulties in both corners and straights.
Bottas's performance was further impacted by the absence of the upgraded ADUO 2 Ferrari engine, which Perez had during the race. While Bottas's engine upgrade is uncertain for the upcoming race in Sepang, Perez has opted to save his power unit for a more advantageous event. Both drivers anticipate a tough weekend in Malaysia due to the Cadillac's ongoing struggles with tyre management and aerodynamic performance.
the-race.comThu 1 Oct · 04:29 UTC
via AutosportHonda reveals second engine upgrade for 2026 seasonHonda Racing Corporation president Koji Watanabe confirmed that the team has introduced its second engine upgrade for the 2026 Formula 1 season, which was first fitted to Lance Stroll's Aston Martin during the Spanish Grand Prix. Despite this development, Stroll noted that Honda is still facing significant performance deficits.
Autosport+ 4 moreThu 1 Oct · 03:56 UTC
via Motorsport.comHonda introduces second engine upgrade for Aston MartinHonda has confirmed the introduction of its second engine upgrade for the 2026 Formula 1 season, which was first fitted to Lance Stroll's Aston Martin during the Spanish Grand Prix. The upgrade focuses on a revised turbocharger and is part of Honda's strategy to enhance performance for both Stroll and Fernando Alonso.Motorsport.com+ 4 moreThu 1 Oct · 03:56 UTC
via thejudge13.comRUMOURAston Martin quietly explores Mercedes engine return as Honda concerns growAston Martin is reportedly considering a return to Mercedes engines as team owner Lawrence Stroll has made discreet inquiries about the possibility. This comes amid a challenging 2026 season where Aston Martin has struggled with its Honda-powered package, currently sitting tenth in the constructors' championship with only three points.
Former driver Christian Danner highlighted the performance issues with Honda, particularly in integrating the combustion engine with the electrical components under the new regulations. While Aston Martin remains committed to Honda for now, the potential design provisions for a Mercedes power unit in their next car suggest serious consideration of alternatives as concerns about their current partnership grow.
thejudge13.comWed 30 Sep · 23:27 UTC
via PlanetF1RUMOURLance Stroll F1 salary revealed; Alonso engine findings; Ferrari ‘bickering’ – roundupLance Stroll's salary for the 2025 Formula 1 season has been disclosed in Aston Martin's financial accounts, revealing he earned $12.2 million. Meanwhile, Fernando Alonso has raised concerns about issues with his Honda engine, although Honda's chief engineer claims the data shows no problems.
Flavio Briatore has commented on the current situation at Ferrari, suggesting that there is internal conflict between the drivers. This comes amidst speculation regarding team principal Fred Vasseur's future and the overall performance of the Ferrari team.PlanetF1Wed 30 Sep · 19:02 UTC
via f1oversteer.comGuenther Steiner thinks Lawrence Stroll sees a Mercedes engine when he ‘wakes up at night’Guenther Steiner has expressed confusion over Lawrence Stroll and Fernando Alonso's lack of criticism towards Honda's underperformance, particularly after Aston Martin's fifth double DNF this season at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Alonso acknowledged engine issues affecting their speed and called for further investigation, while reports indicate that Honda is significantly underpowered compared to competitors.
Steiner highlighted the irony of Stroll's loyalty to Honda, given the potential benefits of a Mercedes engine, which he believes could have kept Aston Martin competitive. Despite Alonso's commitment to give Honda another chance, the ongoing engine issues are likely to remain a significant challenge for the team moving forward.
f1oversteer.comWed 30 Sep · 16:20 UTC
via PlanetF1Lance Stroll F1 salary revealed in Aston Martin accountsAston Martin's financial accounts have disclosed that Lance Stroll earned $12.2 million in Formula 1 during the 2025 season, a figure paid to his personal business entity, Golden Eagle Racing Limited. This amount reflects a slight decrease from the previous year, attributed to currency fluctuations. The accounts also indicate that Aston Martin experienced significant financial growth, with total revenue surpassing $450 million and gross profits nearing $193 million.
In addition to Stroll's salary, the accounts reveal that Aston Martin's workforce expanded significantly, with staffing costs exceeding $170 million. The team is investing heavily in its operations, including new facilities and technology, despite reporting a $38 million loss for the year, which is an improvement over the previous year's losses. This investment is seen as crucial for enhancing the team's performance in the competitive landscape of Formula 1.PlanetF1Wed 30 Sep · 13:53 UTC
Wikimedia Commons · Yu Chu Chin · CC BY-SA 4.0Perez warns F1 rules are becoming dangerousSep.30 (GMM) Sergio Perez has re-joined the ongoing criticism of Formula 1’s new-generation regulations, warning that extreme speed differences caused by energy management are now becoming a real safety concern. The Cadillac driver told Sport1 that he narrowly avoided a major accident while defending from Liam Lawson in Baku. “Above all, we need to closely…newsonf1.comWed 30 Sep · 07:44 UTC
via f1oversteer.comOtmar Szafnauer admits Sergio Perez nearly got a five-year FIA ban before he joined Red BullOtmar Szafnauer disclosed that Sergio Perez was close to receiving a five-year ban from the FIA due to a doping rules violation during the 2017 Malaysian Grand Prix. After the race, Perez underwent IV treatment for dehydration, which is prohibited under FIA regulations. The situation escalated when Perez shared details of the treatment on social media, prompting Szafnauer to engage a top sports lawyer to navigate the potential consequences.
Ultimately, the issue was resolved without a ban, allowing Perez to continue his career, which included a move to Red Bull in 2021. Now 36, Perez is on the verge of reaching 300 race starts, while Cadillac is evaluating potential driver changes for the 2027 season, which could impact his teammate Valtteri Bottas.f1oversteer.comWed 30 Sep · 07:30 UTC
via f1chronicle.comSergio Perez Calls Pointless Baku Weekend ‘One of My Best’ as Cadillac’s Struggles ContinueSergio Perez has declared his Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend as one of his best despite finishing outside the points. After starting from P20 due to a grid penalty, he managed to recover to 14th place, matching his best result of the season with Cadillac, who are still seeking their first points in Formula 1.
Despite the lack of points, Perez expressed satisfaction with his performance, noting that he felt competitive throughout the race. He acknowledged the need for improvements in Cadillac's car to enhance their competitiveness, particularly in straight-line speed, as they aim for a points finish before the end of the season.
f1chronicle.comTue 29 Sep · 20:49 UTC
via gpfans.comRyanair mocks Lance Stroll after Aston Martin announcementRyanair has made a pointed social media remark aimed at Lance Stroll following the announcement that he will remain with Aston Martin for the upcoming Formula 1 season. The airline's comment adds to its history of playful jabs at public figures.gpfans.com+ 1 moreTue 29 Sep · 17:45 UTC
via Motorsport.com“I fear something bad is going to happen soon” – 2026 F1 cars are “too dangerous”, Sergio Perez warnsSergio Perez has raised alarms about the safety of the 2026 Formula 1 cars, citing significant speed differentials that could lead to accidents. His concerns were amplified after a serious crash involving Oliver Bearman at the Japanese Grand Prix, which underscored the risks associated with the new power units that feature a high percentage of electrical energy.
Following a close call with Liam Lawson during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Perez urged for regulatory changes to address the dangerous disparities in engine performance. The FIA has already made some adjustments, and further changes are expected for the 2027 season to improve safety. Despite these efforts, Perez remains apprehensive about the implications for upcoming races.Motorsport.comTue 29 Sep · 12:39 UTC
via f1technical.netAlonso and Stroll confirmed for Aston Martin in 2027Aston Martin has announced that Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll will continue with the team for the 2027 Formula 1 season. This decision marks the fifth consecutive year that the duo will race together for Aston Martin.
f1technical.net+ 1 moreTue 29 Sep · 11:56 UTC
via PlanetF1‘So dangerous’ – Heated Liam Lawson team radio after untelevised Sergio Perez moveDuring the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Liam Lawson expressed his frustration over Sergio Perez's aggressive defensive tactics, describing them as 'so dangerous' during a team radio transmission. This incident occurred after Lawson had passed Perez, who made a sudden move to the left, forcing Lawson to adjust his line. Both drivers finished the race in 12th and 14th positions, respectively, while George Russell secured his third victory of the season.
The rivalry between Lawson and Perez dates back to the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix, where tensions flared. Lawson's career has seen ups and downs, including being dropped by Red Bull and later returning to the Racing Bulls team. The F1 2026 season is set to continue with the Bahrain Grand Prix, marking a significant return to Malaysia for the first time since 2017.PlanetF1Mon 28 Sep · 17:04 UTC
via Formula1.comPerez reflects on 'one of my best weekends'Sergio Perez expressed satisfaction with his performance during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, calling it one of his best weekends despite finishing 14th and missing out on points for Cadillac. He highlighted his strong practice sessions but faced challenges in qualifying, which resulted in a grid penalty that hindered his race position.
Despite the struggles, Perez managed to stay competitive with midfield runners and noted the need for improvements in Cadillac's car performance. He acknowledged that the team has not planned any major upgrades for the remainder of the season but remains optimistic about operational improvements and pushing the team forward as they prepare for 2027.
Formula1.comMon 28 Sep · 15:57 UTC
via Motorsport.comHow was Valtteri Bottas so much slower than Sergio Perez in the Azerbaijan GP?In the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Valtteri Bottas experienced a significant performance gap compared to his teammate Sergio Perez, being outqualified by over a second and falling far behind during the race. Bottas struggled with pace, losing time consistently and ultimately crashing due to a technical issue shortly before the finish.
Sergio Perez, on the other hand, managed to extract maximum performance from his car, competing closely with faster vehicles despite lacking straight-line speed. He expressed pride in his aggressive driving style throughout the race, while Bottas's difficulties continued, marking a third consecutive race without leading his teammate.Motorsport.comMon 28 Sep · 14:45 UTC
via PlanetF1Valtteri Bottas explains Azerbaijan Grand Prix strugglesValtteri Bottas has shared his thoughts on his disappointing performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, attributing it to damper degradation affecting his Cadillac's ride quality. He noted that the car 'got a bit confused,' which contributed to his retirement from the race.PlanetF1+ 1 moreMon 28 Sep · 11:32 UTC
via Motorsport WeekLance Stroll in heated exchange with marshal in BakuLance Stroll was involved in a tense confrontation with a marshal following his retirement from the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The incident, captured on fan footage, has drawn criticism from Formula 1 fans.
Motorsport Week+ 1 moreSun 27 Sep · 17:54 UTC
via lightsoutblog.com2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix: Race Statistics, Facts and TriviaGeorge Russell secured victory at the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, marking his eighth career win and achieving his first Grand Slam by leading every lap and setting the fastest lap. He won by a narrow margin of 0.196 seconds, the closest finish since 2023, and this victory also allowed Mercedes to equal Ferrari for the most wins in Formula 1 history.
Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar completed the podium, marking Red Bull's first double podium finish in over two years. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton finished fourth and sixth respectively, while Kimi Antonelli, who started 16th, finished fifth. Haas achieved a double points finish for the first time at Baku, with Carlos Sainz rounding out the top ten.lightsoutblog.comSat 26 Sep · 21:27 UTC
via gpfans.comFIA announce penalty for F1 star after ignoring McLaren warningThe FIA has imposed a three-place grid penalty on Sergio Perez for impeding Oscar Piastri during the qualifying session at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Perez was warned twice about Piastri's approach but failed to manage his preparation lap properly, resulting in Piastri having to lift off the throttle. Although Piastri stated he did not lose significant lap time, the stewards deemed Perez's actions worthy of punishment.
Despite the penalty, Perez will maintain his starting position of P20 due to other drivers, Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso, receiving larger grid penalties. In total, four drivers have been penalised this weekend, including Carlos Sainz, who was punished for not slowing for yellow flags during qualifying.gpfans.comFri 25 Sep · 20:26 UTC