Lewis HamiltonMax VerstappenValtteri Bottas 
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen plays down popular claim: 'I don't need to take credit'Max Verstappen has expressed a humble attitude regarding the growing popularity of motorsport in the Netherlands, stating that he does not wish to take full credit for it. He joined the Formula 1 grid in 2015 and quickly became a prominent figure, winning his first title in 2021, the same year the Dutch Grand Prix returned to the calendar. Despite his success, Verstappen believes it is more important to recognize the overall growth of motorsport in the country rather than attributing it solely to his achievements.
The upcoming Dutch Grand Prix is anticipated to draw significant crowds, reflecting the enthusiasm of local fans. Verstappen highlighted that the motorsport scene in the Netherlands is thriving, with other Dutch drivers also making their mark in various racing categories. However, he noted that there is currently no agreement for the race to continue beyond this season, which adds a sense of urgency to the event.
RacingNews365Sun 9 Aug · 12:45 UTC
via Motorsport.comMika Hakkinen urges McLaren not to "rock the boat" with Max Verstappen moveMika Hakkinen has expressed concerns about McLaren potentially pursuing Max Verstappen, suggesting that the team should focus on preserving its internal harmony. He believes that introducing another top driver could disrupt the existing team dynamics, which are vital for success in Formula 1. Hakkinen shared these insights during a podcast discussion with David Coulthard, emphasizing the importance of continuity within the team.
Hakkinen drew from his own experiences at McLaren, where he and Coulthard maintained a long-standing partnership. He argued that a strong team spirit is essential, and management should prioritize stability over risky driver market moves. The upcoming Dutch Grand Prix is set to take place from August 21 to 23, 2026.
Motorsport.comSun 9 Aug · 11:32 UTC
via RacingNews365Isack Hadjar details F1 'luxury' alongside Max VerstappenIsack Hadjar, a young driver for Red Bull, has been performing well alongside the highly regarded Max Verstappen. Despite the challenges of competing against such a strong teammate, Hadjar views the experience as a unique opportunity to learn and grow in his racing career. He has consistently finished in the top six and is on track for a potential contract extension for the following season.
In the current season, Hadjar has been out-qualified by Verstappen, but he remains focused on improving and understanding the nuances of racing at the highest level. His admiration for Verstappen's skills and the competitive environment at Red Bull highlights the luxury he feels in being part of such a prestigious team at a young age.RacingNews365Sun 9 Aug · 09:05 UTC
via RacingNews365RUMOURMax Verstappen's future with Red Bull under discussionMax Verstappen has not yet confirmed his plans for the upcoming Formula 1 season, leading to ongoing speculation about his future with Red Bull Racing. The team's recent struggles have added to the scrutiny surrounding his potential decision.RacingNews365+ 1 moreSun 9 Aug · 04:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen Dismisses Plans for New F1 TeamMax Verstappen has confirmed that he does not intend to establish a new racing team in Formula 1. Despite his ambitions in motorsport, he has ruled out any significant moves related to joining the F1 grid.RacingNews365Sat 8 Aug · 20:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comLewis Hamilton Introduces New Puppy Named HaloLewis Hamilton has welcomed a golden retriever puppy named Halo into his family. The seven-time Formula 1 champion shared photos of his new pet, highlighting the joy it brings after a challenging season.Motorsport.comSat 8 Aug · 14:27 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen rules out major F1 decisionMax Verstappen has confirmed that he does not plan to bring his racing team, Verstappen Racing, to the Formula 1 grid. Established in 2022, the team has been competing in GT3 categories, and Verstappen has taken on driving responsibilities, including participation in the 24 Hours of Nurburgring. He has ambitious goals for the team, aiming for it to compete for victories in various racing classes, particularly in endurance racing, rather than F1.
Verstappen highlighted the demanding nature of Formula 1, stating that managing an F1 team would be too stressful alongside his racing commitments. He believes that to run a successful team, one must be actively involved, and he prefers to focus on endurance racing as he looks to the future of his racing career.RacingNews365Sat 8 Aug · 10:55 UTC
via RacingNews365Valtteri Bottas confirms major Cadillac F1 decision 'coming soon'Valtteri Bottas announced that Cadillac will soon shift its focus from developing the 2026 F1 car to preparing for the 2027 model. This decision comes after the team has made progress in the current season, having successfully implemented upgrades that have improved their performance, even surpassing Aston Martin temporarily.
Despite the positive developments, Bottas acknowledged that significant advancements are becoming more difficult as other teams continue to introduce their final upgrades. He emphasized that the improvements made so far have been encouraging for a new team, indicating a promising future for Cadillac in Formula 1.RacingNews365Sat 8 Aug · 10:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comFerrari staff see Michael Schumacher similarities in Lewis Hamilton, says former engineerFormer Ferrari engineer Rob Smedley has noted that long-time Ferrari staff are drawing parallels between Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher. After a challenging first season with Ferrari in 2025, Hamilton has shown significant improvement in 2026, securing his first victory with the team and several podium finishes, placing him second in the drivers' championship at the summer break.
Smedley highlighted that Hamilton's presence is revitalizing the team, as he pushes them to perform better, reminiscent of Schumacher's impact when he joined Ferrari in 1996. Schumacher's tenure saw Ferrari return to dominance, and Smedley believes Hamilton's approach is inspiring similar confidence among the team members.Motorsport.comSat 8 Aug · 09:50 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen handed 'reality' check amid Red Bull frustrationMax Verstappen has not been afraid of criticising Red Bull this season, with an ex-F1 driver believing he must have several options on the table.RacingNews365Sat 8 Aug · 04:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Mercedes Team Member Bids Farewell Before Joining Red BullA prominent figure from the Mercedes Formula 1 team has shared a farewell message following their last race in Hungary. Max Verstappen acknowledged the departing member's contributions as they prepare for a transition to Red Bull.RacingNews365Fri 7 Aug · 20:00 UTC
via grandprix.comRUMOURPerez linked with Williams as Cadillac future cloudsSergio Perez is reportedly considering a move to Williams for the 2027 season, as his position at Cadillac appears less secure despite his strong performances. Valtteri Bottas is under contract with Cadillac for two years without a release clause, which has led to speculation about Perez potentially replacing Carlos Sainz at Williams, whose future is uncertain. Perez's contract with Cadillac is believed to only extend through 2026, prompting discussions about his next steps in Formula 1.
Cadillac has struggled in its debut season, failing to score any points and facing challenges in its development process. Perez has openly criticized the team's slow progress and reliance on external suppliers, indicating a need for significant changes. He remains hopeful about future upgrades and is focused on improving the team's performance as they look ahead to the next season.grandprix.comFri 7 Aug · 17:11 UTC
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri explains 'generation' difference after Lewis Hamilton pledgeOscar Piastri has expressed his support for the use of F1 simulators, highlighting their value in preparing for race weekends. His comments come in response to Lewis Hamilton's earlier criticism of simulators, which he felt were misleading. Piastri notes that there is a generational gap in how drivers perceive and utilize these tools, with him finding them particularly useful given the complexity of modern F1 cars.
While Piastri acknowledges the limitations of simulators, stating they cannot fully replicate the experience of driving a real car, he believes they can still provide valuable insights. He emphasizes that each driver has different preferences regarding simulator use, and they should choose what works best for them. This discussion reflects the evolving nature of driver preparation in Formula 1.RacingNews365Fri 7 Aug · 17:10 UTC
via RacingNews365Bottas outlines Cadillac's strategy for F1 successCadillac has shared its strategy to improve performance in its rookie Formula 1 season. The team aims to evolve from its current position and compete at the highest level in the championship.RacingNews365+ 1 moreFri 7 Aug · 15:30 UTC
via Motorsport.comGuenther Steiner questions Valtteri Bottas's motivation at CadillacGuenther Steiner, the former Haas team principal, has expressed concerns about Valtteri Bottas's motivation while driving for Cadillac in Formula 1. He noted that both Bottas and teammate Sergio Perez have struggled significantly, failing to score any points in the first 11 races of the 2026 season. Despite this, Perez has shown better performance in qualifying, leading Steiner to grade him higher than Bottas.
Steiner's assessment indicates that Bottas may have lost some motivation, which is reflected in his performance. He suggested that if Cadillac decides to make a driver change, Bottas would be the most likely candidate for replacement due to his current results. Steiner emphasized the need for the team to focus on car development while also acknowledging the challenges both drivers face in an uncompetitive environment.Motorsport.comFri 7 Aug · 13:07 UTC
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton brilliance outlined after historic moment: 'Mark of a champion'Lewis Hamilton achieved a significant victory at the Spanish Grand Prix earlier in the 2026 season, showcasing his strategic prowess by opting for a three-stop strategy while most of his competitors chose two stops. This decision, coupled with his calm execution throughout the race, led to his win, which was highlighted by former driver Stefan Johansson as a demonstration of Hamilton's championship caliber.
Despite this victory, Hamilton finds himself 50 points behind Kimi Antonelli in the championship standings. Johansson emphasized that Hamilton's ability to capitalize on a slim opportunity distinguishes him from other drivers, reaffirming his status as a top competitor in Formula 1.RacingNews365Fri 7 Aug · 10:55 UTC
via RacingNews365Exclusive: Max Verstappen details belief in rising Belgian superstarMax Verstappen has expressed strong belief in the potential of young Belgian racer Dries van Langendonck, who was recently signed to Verstappen Racing. At just 15 years old, van Langendonck is already making waves in British Formula 4 and is part of the McLaren Driver Development Programme, showcasing his talent and promise for a future in Formula 1.
Verstappen highlighted van Langendonck's impressive achievements, including winning the Formula Winter Series and leading the British F4 championship. He is committed to guiding the young driver through the complexities of advancing in motorsport while ensuring he is not overwhelmed by pressure at such a young age.RacingNews365Fri 7 Aug · 06:20 UTC
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton overcomes difficult Ferrari periodLewis Hamilton has shown significant improvement in his Formula 1 performance this season after a challenging start with Ferrari. Former F1 drivers have expressed their satisfaction with Hamilton's return to competitive form.RacingNews365Fri 7 Aug · 05:25 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen heaps praise on F1 rival: 'Never a doubt'Max Verstappen has expressed admiration for Kimi Antonelli, a 19-year-old Mercedes driver who has made a significant impact in the current Formula 1 season. Antonelli has achieved six victories and leads the drivers' championship by 50 points, a remarkable feat considering his challenging rookie season in 2025, which included several retirements. Verstappen noted that he recognized Antonelli's talent early on during his karting career and emphasized the importance of gaining experience in shifter categories before transitioning to cars.
Verstappen highlighted that Antonelli's impressive performance in his second season aligns with the typical development trajectory of young drivers. He acknowledged that while Antonelli's success is noteworthy, especially given his position in a top team, it was expected that he would become more consistently competitive after overcoming the challenges of his rookie year. Verstappen's comments reflect a belief in Antonelli's potential and the normal progression of drivers in Formula 1.RacingNews365Fri 7 Aug · 04:30 UTCvia RacingNews365Max Verstappen wants government response as Lewis Hamilton impact hailed – RacingNews365 ReviewMax Verstappen has urged the Dutch government to take action to bolster motorsport in the Netherlands, especially as Zandvoort prepares for its last Dutch Grand Prix. The call comes amid uncertainty regarding Verstappen's future and the current state of motorsport in the country, which has seen a decline after several successful years.
In other news, Lewis Hamilton's performance has been recognized by Damon Hill, who noted Hamilton's significant impact on Ferrari's return to competitiveness. Meanwhile, Kimi Antonelli has increased his lead in the F1 drivers' championship, showcasing a strong season despite challenges.RacingNews365Thu 6 Aug · 20:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Isack Hadjar describes Red Bull culture shockIsack Hadjar has shared his experience of moving from the junior Racing Bulls team to the senior Red Bull team, describing it as a 'culture shock.' Despite the challenges, he feels that his time in the junior program has helped ease the transition.RacingNews365+ 1 moreThu 6 Aug · 17:10 UTC
via grandprix.comCadillac veterans split Dutch F1 expertsCadillac's Formula 1 project is centered around experienced drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, which has sparked a debate among former Dutch racers Renger van der Zande and Jan Lammers. Perez has expressed confidence in his performance this season but raised concerns about the team's development pace, while Bottas faced a significant brake failure during the Hungarian GP, leading to a crash into a barrier for safety reasons.
Van der Zande supports the choice of seasoned drivers, arguing they are essential for the team's growth, while Lammers contends that Bottas and Perez's established careers may hinder the ambition necessary for a new team. He believes that younger drivers should be considered only when the team is more competitive, emphasizing the need for a more driven and hungry approach in their lineup.grandprix.comThu 6 Aug · 16:57 UTC
via Motorsport.comValtteri Bottas Qualifies for UCI Gravel World ChampionshipDuring the Formula 1 summer break, Valtteri Bottas achieved a significant milestone by qualifying for the UCI Gravel World Championship. He secured fifth place in his age group at a qualifying event held in the Czech Republic.Motorsport.comThu 6 Aug · 12:55 UTCvia RacingNews365Verstappen calls for Dutch government support for motorsportMax Verstappen has called on the Dutch government to enhance its support for motorsport as the country prepares to conclude its hosting of the Dutch Grand Prix. The future of motorsport in the Netherlands remains uncertain following this month's final race at Zandvoort.RacingNews365+ 1 moreThu 6 Aug · 12:45 UTC