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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 Formula1.comLeclerc anticipates exciting qualifying at MadringCharles Leclerc is looking forward to an exciting qualifying session for the Spanish Grand Prix. After experiencing the Madring for the first time, he expressed optimism about Ferrari's performance.
+ 1 moreFri 11 Sep · 19:03 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 racer.comNorris on the back foot after gearbox issue limits Madring track timeLando Norris faced challenges during the Spanish Grand Prix weekend after a gearbox issue limited his track time in the second practice session. He finished sixth in the first practice, but his performance was hindered by being over 0.8 seconds slower than George Russell, prompting concerns about the car's competitiveness ahead of qualifying.
McLaren's technical director, Mark Temple, acknowledged the setback caused by the gearbox issue, which affected not only Norris but the entire team's ability to gather crucial data on the new circuit. The team plans to analyze data from the first practice and work on improvements to ensure both drivers can maximize their performance in the upcoming sessions.
Fri 11 Sep · 18:04 UTC
via f1oversteer.comJuan Pablo Montoya sees the one area Lando Norris ‘always’ outclasses Oscar PiastriJuan Pablo Montoya feels Mercedes’ George Russell and McLaren’s Oscar Piastri face the same issue because of their teammates, Andrea Kimi Antonelli and Lando Norris. ...
Fri 11 Sep · 18:00 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/16x9%20single%20image%20-%202026-09-11T121422.901.webp)
via Formula1.comteams share impressions after Spanish Grand Prix practiceTeams and drivers provided feedback following the initial practice session for the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix. The session took place at the Madrid circuit, allowing teams to assess their performance ahead of the race.Fri 11 Sep · 15:04 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 F1iPiastri insists ‘we’re all good’ after heated Monza battle with NorrisOscar Piastri has downplayed any concerns regarding team dynamics at McLaren following a tense race with teammate Lando Norris at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza. Despite a heated battle for fourth place, which included some close moments and Norris expressing frustration over team radio, both drivers have moved past the incident and maintain a positive relationship, even spending time together off the track.
Piastri also reflected on his performance and adaptation to the 2026 McLaren car, noting that he has faced challenges but found some improvements during the Monza race. As they head to the inaugural Spanish Grand Prix at the new Madring circuit, Piastri is eager to see how his recent progress translates into results on a new track.Fri 11 Sep · 09:48 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 newsonf1.comLeclerc cleared to race as Ferrari tension coolsSep.11 (GMM) Charles Leclerc has been cleared to race in Madrid after further medical checks following his heavy Monza crash, while Ferrari appears to have calmed the tensions exposed during its disastrous home weekend. “It felt like a serious accident,” Leclerc, who reported vision problems after the impact, said on Thursday. “But all the checks…
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 RacingNews365Piastri and Lawson caution on Madring circuit risksThe Madring will host its inaugural Formula 1 Grand Prix this weekend, presenting unique challenges for the drivers. Feedback from the grid highlights the circuit's complexity and the potential for mistakes as they navigate the new layout.Thu 10 Sep · 18:15 UTC
via Sky Sports F1Russell: I have an answer to Antonelli's paceGeorge Russell has expressed confidence in his ability to improve his performance against his Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli, who currently leads the Drivers' Championship by 66 points. Despite suffering a setback at the Italian Grand Prix, where Antonelli won after starting from 19th, Russell believes he has made progress in matching Antonelli's pace and is focused on winning races as the season continues.
As the Spanish Grand Prix approaches, Russell acknowledges that luck will be essential for him to close the gap in the championship standings. Meanwhile, Antonelli remains focused on winning races rather than the championship, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a competitive mindset without being distracted by the title race.
Thu 10 Sep · 18:08 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 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 thejudge13.comVerstappen confirms talks with McLaren before Red Bull extensionMax Verstappen has confirmed that he engaged in discussions with McLaren prior to extending his contract with Red Bull until 2030. Although he was already under contract until 2028, the talks with McLaren were serious enough to indicate that they were more than mere speculation. Verstappen emphasized that such discussions are a normal part of evaluating his future, but ultimately decided that remaining with Red Bull was the best choice for his career aspirations.
Verstappen described his relationship with Red Bull as akin to a second family and expressed confidence in the team's future direction. He believes that staying with Red Bull will allow him to achieve his ambitions, especially with significant technical changes coming in the 2026 season. His commitment to Red Bull not only solidifies his place in the team but also prevents one of the biggest potential driver moves in recent years.
Thu 10 Sep · 11:52 UTC
via f1oversteer.comGuenther Steiner snubs Max Verstappen as he names F1 driver who’d be his ‘first pick in the draft’Guenther Steiner has made headlines by selecting Kimi Antonelli as his first pick in a hypothetical Formula 1 draft, placing him ahead of Max Verstappen. Antonelli has had a remarkable 2026 season, leading the championship with seven wins and a significant points lead. Steiner expressed confidence that Antonelli will surpass Verstappen's performance in the coming years, highlighting the young driver's impressive turnaround from his rookie season.
In addition to Antonelli, Steiner also picked Lando Norris for his junior team, showcasing his belief in the talents of both drivers. He acknowledged the challenge of selecting from numerous young talents for his team, indicating a competitive landscape in F1. This decision comes as Verstappen, despite his past dominance, faces challenges in the current season, sitting sixth in the standings after a series of regulation changes.Thu 10 Sep · 11:00 UTCPage 29 of 60