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via gpfans.comMax Verstappen warns Madring circuit 'probably a car killer'Max Verstappen has expressed concerns about the new Madring circuit, labeling it as 'probably a car killer' based on its challenging layout. This assessment echoes comments made by Williams team principal James Vowles, who highlighted issues observed during F3 testing. Despite these concerns, the first practice session for F1 went smoothly, although F2 experienced multiple crashes during qualifying.
Verstappen elaborated on the difficulties of the track, drawing parallels to the Jeddah circuit, particularly regarding the close positioning of walls. He also pointed out that the angled braking zones could complicate overtaking maneuvers, making it a tough challenge for drivers throughout the race weekend.
Fri 11 Sep · 19:58 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen pinpoints two critical factors for Red Bull improvementMax Verstappen had a mixed performance during the first day of the Spanish Grand Prix, finishing fifth in FP1 and sixth in FP2. He highlighted the need for Red Bull to improve their one-lap pace and understanding of tyre performance for long runs, as he struggled with the car's balance throughout the sessions.
Despite some frustrations with the car's handling, Verstappen remained optimistic about making adjustments ahead of qualifying. He noted that a clean FP3 session would be beneficial for their performance, as the team aims to enhance their competitiveness on the new Madrid circuit.
Fri 11 Sep · 18:30 UTC
via PlanetF1Max Verstappen insider pokes fun at Lewis Hamilton after Spanish GP incidentsDuring the Spanish Grand Prix practice sessions, Lewis Hamilton faced criticism from several drivers for being involved in multiple traffic incidents. Dani Juncadella, a teammate of Max Verstappen, humorously remarked on social media that Hamilton's presence in the way during practice is as certain as death and taxes, highlighting the frustrations of other drivers like Carlos Sainz and Arvid Lindblad.
The practice sessions at the new Madring track were largely clean, except for one red flag incident caused by Lindblad crashing. Despite the overall smoothness of the sessions, Hamilton's actions drew ire from his competitors, with Sainz and Lindblad both voicing their concerns about safety and the dangers posed by Hamilton's positioning on the track.
Fri 11 Sep · 17:40 UTC
via F1iVerstappen holds firm on Madring: “I’ll always prefer Spa”Max Verstappen shared his thoughts on the newly constructed Madring after the opening practice sessions for the Spanish Grand Prix. While he acknowledged the quality of the venue's construction, he reiterated his long-standing preference for traditional circuits like Spa over street circuits, stating that this sentiment would not change. Despite his mixed feelings, he noted that the venue had been well-built but lacked the excitement he finds in more conventional tracks.
In terms of performance, Verstappen finished sixth in the practice sessions, trailing the fastest time by 0.401 seconds. The day was relatively uneventful, with only one red flag caused by a rookie's crash. Verstappen indicated that the Red Bull team needed to improve their car's balance and speed to be competitive, as the Madring presented unique challenges that the entire field was still trying to navigate.
Fri 11 Sep · 17:37 UTC
via grandprix.comBen Sulayem tells Alonso to stay until he wins againFIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has urged Fernando Alonso to continue racing in Formula 1, suggesting that he should not retire after a challenging 2026 season with Aston Martin. He emphasized that Alonso, a celebrated champion, should remain in the sport until he secures another victory before deciding to leave.
Ben Sulayem has indicated that he plans to discuss Alonso's future with him directly, noting that Alonso is currently unhappy with the team's performance. While Alonso has left his options open for 2027, including a potential move to the World Endurance Championship, Aston Martin prefers to keep him in their Formula 1 lineup.
via F1i‘Not acceptable’: Ben Sulayem won’t let Alonso retire in miseryFIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has expressed his disapproval of the idea that Fernando Alonso might retire from Formula 1 due to the poor performance of his Aston Martin team. Speaking at the New Economy Forum in Madrid, he emphasized that it would be unacceptable for a two-time world champion to leave the sport under such circumstances, suggesting that he would intervene to prevent this outcome.
Ben Sulayem has already engaged in discussions with Aston Martin's owner, Lawrence Stroll, to address the team's competitive issues. He indicated that the FIA has taken measures to assist the team and is open to Alonso's input on how to improve their performance. The FIA president's commitment to keeping Alonso in the sport highlights the complexities of team dynamics and regulatory influence in Formula 1.Fri 11 Sep · 14:26 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMadring designer pinpoints the corner he expects Max Verstappen to show his ‘nerves of steel’Jarno Zaffelli, the designer of the Madring circuit, has highlighted Turns 5 and 6 as a critical area where Max Verstappen is expected to showcase his skill. The circuit, which will host the Spanish Grand Prix for the next decade, has already posed challenges for drivers, as indicated by Carlos Sainz's comments on the difficulties faced during simulator testing.
Additionally, Turn 12, referred to as La Monumental, has gained attention due to its steep gradient and significant compression forces. Zaffelli mentioned that initial plans for a steeper banking at this corner were abandoned due to safety concerns from the FIA and Formula 1 regarding the capabilities of current cars.
Fri 11 Sep · 11:00 UTC
via gpfans.comLewis Hamilton claims Ferrari F1 move BLOCKED by Fernando AlonsoLewis Hamilton revealed that his potential move to Ferrari was hindered by Fernando Alonso, who held veto rights during negotiations. Hamilton stated that he spoke with former Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali about joining the team, but Alonso's status as the number one driver played a significant role in blocking the move.
Hamilton and Alonso previously had a tumultuous partnership at McLaren in 2007, which ended with Alonso leaving the team after just one season. While Alonso continued with Ferrari until 2014, Hamilton moved to Mercedes, where he achieved significant success, ultimately joining Ferrari in 2025.Fri 11 Sep · 10:57 UTC
via RacingNews365Verstappen issues 'warning' to karting opponent: 'I'll plough him into the wall!'Max Verstappen is set to compete in a unique karting challenge at Silverstone following the Spanish Grand Prix. This event, scheduled for September 16, will see him racing against 100 participants, which include Red Bull athletes and various media figures. Verstappen humorously warned a friend, who is also participating, to be cautious or risk being pushed into the barrier during the race.
In the karting event, Verstappen will have 30 laps to navigate through the field, eliminating opponents as he overtakes them. His playful remarks about the race dynamics and the positioning of competitors highlight his competitive spirit and sense of humor ahead of the event.Fri 11 Sep · 08:45 UTC
via PlanetF1Alonso considers Aston Martin World Endurance optionFernando Alonso is exploring alternatives as he awaits a final decision from Aston Martin regarding his future in Formula 1. The team's owner, Lawrence Stroll, has taken steps that reflect Alonso's uncertain position.+ 1 moreFri 11 Sep · 04:59 UTC
via newsonf1.comAlonso says 2027 decision ‘not soon’Sep.11 (GMM) Fernando Alonso says a decision about his 2027 future is still some way off, while openly admitting that options outside the Formula 1 cockpit are part of the discussion. Asked in Madrid when news about next season should be expected, the 45-year-old replied simply: “Not soon.” Alonso continues to insist his hesitation is…
via thejudge13.comAlonso retirement preparations at Aston Martin as 2027 decision looms ahead of Madrid GPFernando Alonso's future in Formula 1 is uncertain as his contract with Aston Martin expires at the end of the 2026 season. The team has begun preparations for the possibility of racing without him in 2027, although Alonso has not made a definitive retirement announcement. He has indicated that the competitiveness of the next-generation cars will significantly influence his decision to continue racing or step away from the sport.
In a recent statement, Alonso expressed the need to evaluate how upcoming technical regulations will affect the driving experience. He remains open to continuing his relationship with Aston Martin in a different capacity, such as competing in other racing series. While he acknowledges the challenges ahead, particularly in the Madrid GP, he is focused on assessing his options and the team's future direction.
Thu 10 Sep · 20:58 UTC
via Formula1.comHow Verstappen and Lawson rate Red Bull's chances in MadridMax Verstappen and Liam Lawson evaluated Red Bull Racing's prospects for the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix, which will be held at the new Madring circuit. Both drivers acknowledged the unique challenges posed by the high-speed street layout, which could lead to unpredictable outcomes and potentially allow Red Bull to secure their first victory of the 2026 season.
Verstappen emphasized the importance of practice sessions for gaining confidence in the car, while Lawson noted his ongoing adaptation to the team's 2026 vehicle. Both drivers expressed the need for time to learn the new track and improve their performance, with Lawson specifically mentioning the challenges of racing in a car that is not tailored to his preferences.
Thu 10 Sep · 18:27 UTC
via Motorsport.comWhy Max Verstappen isn’t buying the hype over a Red Bull surprise in MadridMax Verstappen has expressed doubts about his chances of winning at the new Madring circuit, suggesting that he might not secure a victory this season for the first time since his debut in 2015. Despite his strong performance, he acknowledges that a fast car is crucial in Formula 1, and he feels that the current situation does not favor a turnaround in his results.
Verstappen compared the Madring to the Jeddah street circuit, highlighting the dangers and challenges posed by the track's design. His temporary teammate, Liam Lawson, echoed these sentiments, noting the tricky nature of certain sections, particularly the chicane at Turns 5 and 6. Both drivers are aware of the risks involved and the need for precision to avoid accidents.
Thu 10 Sep · 17:11 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen shares whether Robin Raikkonen could be his teammate one day after Red Bull moveMax Verstappen recently discussed the possibility of Robin Raikkonen, son of former F1 champion Kimi Raikkonen, becoming his teammate after Red Bull signed the young karting talent to their junior team. Robin, who is only 11 years old, will officially join the Red Bull driver academy in 2027, following impressive performances in the European karting circuit that caught the attention of various F1 development programs.
Verstappen expressed his excitement about meeting Kimi and Robin before the Spanish Grand Prix but also noted that he might not be in F1 by the time Robin is ready for a seat. The Dutch driver reflected on his early career coinciding with Kimi's final years in F1, hinting at the significance of a potential future partnership between him and the younger Raikkonen.Thu 10 Sep · 17:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Fernando Alonso claims rivals visited Lawrence StrollFernando Alonso has stated that several prominent Formula 1 drivers visited Aston Martin team owner Lawrence Stroll during the summer. This revelation comes as Alonso considers his own future in the sport.+ 1 moreThu 10 Sep · 15:05 UTC
via RaceFans‘In Monza I did two or three unwanted overtakes’ – Alonso | Formula 1Fernando Alonso reflected on his performance during the recent Monza race, stating that he executed a few overtakes that he did not intend to make. He emphasized that drivers often find themselves at the mercy of their cars when attempting to overtake, indicating a lack of control in certain situations.
The article also highlights the recent changes to Formula 1's power unit regulations, which were implemented in response to widespread criticism from drivers regarding the artificial nature of racing. Despite the positive feedback from F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali about the Italian Grand Prix, Alonso remains doubtful about the overall racing experience on Sundays compared to the excitement of qualifying.
Thu 10 Sep · 14:22 UTC
via Motorsport.comLawson and Tsunoda Address Verstappen's 2026 F1 CommentsLiam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda have responded to Max Verstappen's remarks regarding the impact of driver input on the upcoming 2026 Formula 1 cars. Verstappen suggested that recent results indicate a diminished role for drivers, a claim both drivers addressed in their comments.Thu 10 Sep · 13:53 UTC
via RacingNews365Fernando Alonso confirms alternative option to F1 for 2027Fernando Alonso is considering a move to the World Endurance Championship (WEC) for the 2027 season, although he has not yet made a formal commitment regarding his future in Formula 1. Aston Martin, his current team, is keen to keep him on board as they aim to improve their performance with Honda as their engine partner.
Despite his struggles this season, where he has only scored three points in 13 races, Alonso has indicated that his decision will be based on his enjoyment of the new regulations rather than the competitiveness of the car. He has stated that any announcement about his future is not imminent, as he focuses on the upcoming challenges of racing on a new street circuit in Madrid.Thu 10 Sep · 13:20 UTC
via f1oversteer.comNico Rosberg says Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin performances reveal the truth about his F1 careerNico Rosberg has expressed strong opinions about Fernando Alonso's current performances with Aston Martin, stating that they highlight the reality of Alonso's Formula 1 career. At 45 years old, Alonso continues to demonstrate exceptional skill, particularly in his head-to-head competition with teammate Lance Stroll, whom he has consistently outperformed this season. Rosberg believes that Alonso's talent is evident, and he remains one of the top drivers in the sport today.
Rosberg also reflected on Alonso's career choices, suggesting that with better decisions, Alonso could have easily secured five world championships. Despite criticism of his move to Aston Martin, Rosberg remains optimistic about Alonso's potential, especially with recent chassis upgrades that could enhance the team's performance. As the team prepares for the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix, there is hope that Alonso will showcase the true capabilities of the Aston Martin AMR26.Thu 10 Sep · 12:00 UTCPage 20 of 43