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via gpfans.comKimi Antonelli compared to Michael Schumacher by BenettonAlessandro Benetton, who won two world championships with Michael Schumacher, has drawn comparisons between Schumacher and rising star Kimi Antonelli. Benetton noted that Antonelli's talent and likability remind him of the legendary driver.
+ 1 moreSun 20 Sep · 16:27 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen reacts to major Lando Norris career announcementLando Norris has confirmed the establishment of his own junior racing team, which is set to compete in various championships starting in 2027. This initiative aims to provide opportunities for young drivers in the increasingly expensive world of motorsport. Norris expressed his desire to give back to the racing community by supporting emerging talents through this new venture.
Max Verstappen has publicly supported Norris's decision, highlighting the challenges young racers face due to rising costs. While Verstappen also runs a racing team, he focuses on endurance racing rather than single-seater competitions. He expressed satisfaction with his current activities, which include training drivers in lower formulas through his sim company.
Sun 20 Sep · 15:30 UTC
via PlanetF1Kimi Antonelli discusses friendship with Sebastian VettelKimi Antonelli has shared insights about his friendship with four-time Formula 1 champion Sebastian Vettel as he approaches a significant milestone in his career. Antonelli is on track to potentially break one of Vettel's long-standing records this season.
+ 1 moreSun 20 Sep · 12:24 UTC
via PlanetF1George Russell ‘on the ropes’ as pundits weigh in on ‘painful’ Mercedes realityGeorge Russell is experiencing a challenging season in Formula 1, currently trailing his teammate Kimi Antonelli in the championship standings. Despite securing two grand prix victories, Antonelli has dominated with eight wins and holds an 81-point lead. Russell has openly admitted that Antonelli has performed better this year, a stark contrast to last season when he outscored Antonelli significantly. This shift in momentum has raised concerns about Russell's championship prospects.
Former drivers David Coulthard and Nico Rosberg have weighed in on Russell's situation, commending his attitude and acknowledgment of Antonelli's performance. Coulthard noted that Russell is handling the pressure well, while Rosberg highlighted the psychological challenges Russell faces as he questions his own abilities. The 2026 season has seen notable changes in driver performances, with several drivers experiencing swings in their standings compared to the previous year.Sun 20 Sep · 12:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comGuenther Steiner compares Madring backlash to Las Vegas debut with 2027 warningGuenther Steiner has called for urgent modifications to the Madring circuit following the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix, which was criticized for its lack of excitement and overtaking opportunities. He highlighted the need for improvements to avoid repeating the negative reception that the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix received. Steiner emphasized that the organizers must ensure the track is suitable for the 2027 season, as it is part of a 10-year contract.
The race saw Kimi Antonelli secure his eighth victory of the season, further solidifying his lead in the drivers' standings. Steiner's comments reflect a broader concern about maintaining the quality and competitiveness of Formula 1 events, especially in new venues. He noted that while initial reactions can be negative, with time and adjustments, events like Las Vegas can become successful and iconic.
Sun 20 Sep · 10:28 UTC
via Motorsport.comDavid Coulthard urges FIA to speed up safety car decisionsDavid Coulthard has expressed concerns regarding the FIA's speed in making decisions to neutralize Formula 1 races, particularly after the recent Spanish Grand Prix. He noted that Lando Norris lost a likely victory due to the timing of the virtual safety car deployment, which allowed Kimi Antonelli to pit at a strategic moment. Coulthard emphasized that the time taken to respond to incidents can significantly impact race outcomes and suggested that improvements are necessary.
During a podcast discussion, Coulthard elaborated on the inherent unpredictability of safety car situations, stating that they can unfairly affect race results. He called for a more efficient process in decision-making, especially in clear-cut situations like major accidents. The former driver believes that quicker responses could help mitigate the luck factor in racing outcomes, ensuring a fairer competition for all drivers.Sun 20 Sep · 09:00 UTC
via F1iNorris reveals his ‘inevitable choice’ to lead LN4 FusionLando Norris has officially launched his junior racing venture, LN4 Fusion, with plans to compete in various categories including the Italian F4 Championship, FRECA, and Formula 3. The team is also seeking entry into Formula 2, pending confirmation. To lead this ambitious project, Norris has appointed Rene Rosin as Team Principal, citing his extensive experience and successful track record in junior motorsport as key factors in his decision.
Norris has a long-standing relationship with Rosin, having observed his work at Prema, which has been a benchmark in junior racing. Norris expressed that Rosin was the 'inevitable choice' for the role, emphasizing the need for strong leadership to build a sustainable team. With Rosin at the helm, LN4 Fusion aims to establish a solid foundation and culture as it prepares for its inaugural season.
Sun 20 Sep · 08:12 UTC
via RacingNews365Lando Norris criticised for Madrid cool-down room actionLando Norris has come under fire for bringing a can of Coca-Cola into the cool-down room following his third-place finish at the Spanish Grand Prix. Guenther Steiner, team principal of Haas, expressed that Norris's actions were unprofessional and suggested that as a professional driver, he should have been more aware of the implications of his choice, especially given the existing sponsorship deal between Pepsi and Formula 1.
The incident sparked discussions among fans and commentators, with Steiner acknowledging that while no one was harmed by Norris's actions, it was not the smartest decision. He noted that the publicity surrounding the incident inadvertently benefited Coca-Cola, turning a minor issue into a notable topic of conversation in the F1 community.Sun 20 Sep · 08:10 UTC
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli addresses Mercedes team dynamicsKimi Antonelli has responded to suggestions that he has become the team leader at Mercedes, amid speculation about George Russell's recent performance decline. Antonelli is currently in contention for his first Formula 1 title, with Lando Norris praising his impressive results against the more experienced Russell.+ 1 moreSun 20 Sep · 07:15 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMcLaren engineers think they have fix for one key ‘weakness’ of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri’s carMcLaren is preparing to introduce significant upgrades for the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, focusing on enhancing the performance of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri's MCL40 car. These upgrades include a new underbody and a modified version of their Macarena rear wing, aimed at improving the car's aerodynamics, particularly in slow-speed corners where the team has identified weaknesses. The decision on which rear wing to use will be made after practice sessions in Baku.
The upgrades come after a challenging 2025 Azerbaijan GP for both drivers, where Piastri faced multiple issues, including a crash and a poor start. Despite these setbacks, McLaren's engineers are optimistic that the new aerodynamic package will allow Norris and Piastri to compete for pole position. Recent performances have shown that the MCL40 is competitive in medium-speed turns, and the team is looking to build on this momentum as they head into the race weekend.
Sat 19 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Red Bull issue FIA response as Kimi Antonelli shares unique dream - RacingNews365 ReviewRed Bull Racing's boss Laurent Mekies has stated that the team is open to discussions about the future of the ADUO regulations, following a proposal from FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem aimed at supporting Honda's involvement in Formula 1. This response indicates Red Bull's proactive stance in engaging with regulatory changes that could impact the sport's landscape.
In addition to the regulatory discussions, Kimi Antonelli shared his aspirations to achieve a level of fan support similar to that of Valentino Rossi. Meanwhile, Lando Norris has made a significant decision by appointing Rene Rosin to lead his new junior racing team, LN4 Fusion. Sergio Perez is hopeful about the introduction of a new Ferrari engine at the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, while Sebastian Vettel has weighed in on the ongoing criticism regarding the new cars introduced this season.Sat 19 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via gpfans.comMartin Brundle claims F1 champion 'robbed' in controversial callDuring the recent Spanish Grand Prix, Lando Norris was leading the race when a Virtual Safety Car disrupted his momentum, allowing Kimi Antonelli to take the victory. Norris, who had started from pole, was unable to pit for fresh tires in time due to the timing of the yellow flags and the subsequent safety car, which ultimately cost him the race. A glitch during his pit stop further delayed his return to the track, resulting in a third-place finish.
Martin Brundle criticized the race's outcome, arguing that it did not reflect the true performance of the drivers, as both Antonelli and Verstappen acknowledged Norris's pace. Brundle suggested potential regulatory changes to prevent similar situations in the future, including ensuring that a Virtual Safety Car remains in place for a full lap to maintain fairness in racing.Sat 19 Sep · 18:44 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli shows no signs of championship pressureMercedes Formula 1 driver Kimi Antonelli is demonstrating confidence as he approaches his first championship title, according to former driver Jolyon Palmer. David Coulthard also commended George Russell for acknowledging Antonelli's strong performance in the current season.Sat 19 Sep · 17:00 UTC
via Motorsport WeekLando Norris names Team Principal for junior teamLando Norris has officially appointed Rene Rosin as the Team Principal for his new junior team, LN4 Fusion. This team is set to compete in various junior formulas, including the Italian F4 Championship, FRECA, and Formula 3, with plans for a potential entry into Formula 2 still pending confirmation. Norris described Rosin's appointment as the "inevitable choice" due to their long-standing relationship and Rosin's extensive experience in leading successful racing teams.
Norris emphasized the importance of having a strong leader at the helm of his junior team, citing Rosin's passion for winning and his ability to bring people together. Rosin's previous experience with Prema, a renowned junior outfit, is expected to be invaluable as LN4 Fusion embarks on its inaugural season across multiple racing series. Norris believes that Rosin's leadership will help establish a successful and sustainable project for the future.
Sat 19 Sep · 15:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli handed praise from major rival: 'An asset for F1'Kimi Antonelli, driving for Mercedes, has had a remarkable 2026 Formula 1 season, securing eight victories and establishing a commanding 81-point lead in the drivers' championship. His performance has drawn praise from notable figures in the sport, including McLaren's team principal Andrea Stella, who described Antonelli as an 'asset for F1' and acknowledged his consistent growth and skill on the track.
Flavio Briatore, Alpine's boss, also highlighted Antonelli's rising status in Italy, comparing him to tennis star Janick Sinner. Briatore noted that Antonelli's success is beneficial for both Formula 1 and Italy, as he is quickly becoming one of the country's most recognized athletes. The combination of Antonelli's talent and his potential to attract fans away from traditional teams like Ferrari marks a significant shift in the competitive landscape of F1.Sat 19 Sep · 13:40 UTC
via Motorsport.comRob Smedley explains Peter Bonnington's key role in Kimi Antonelli's F1 successRob Smedley has highlighted the significant role of Peter Bonnington in Kimi Antonelli's impressive performance during the 2026 Formula 1 season. Antonelli, who has become the youngest driver to lead the championship standings, has achieved back-to-back victories at the Chinese and Japanese Grands Prix. Currently, he holds an 81-point lead over his Mercedes teammate George Russell, showcasing his dominance in the series. Smedley acknowledges Bonnington's contributions as Antonelli's race engineer, emphasizing that while Bonnington provides crucial support, it is Antonelli who must deliver results on race day.
Antonelli himself has expressed gratitude for working with Bonnington, recognizing the engineer's extensive experience with legendary drivers like Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton. He appreciates the guidance Bonnington offers as he navigates new challenges in his racing career. Smedley and co-host Otmar Szafnauer also discussed the importance of communication between Antonelli and Bonnington, noting that Antonelli's feedback is vital for optimizing performance. Overall, the collaboration between Antonelli and Bonnington is seen as a key factor in Antonelli's successful title charge.Sat 19 Sep · 12:40 UTC
via RacingNews365Lando Norris names 'inevitable choice' as major team decision madeLando Norris has launched his own junior racing team, LN4 Fusion, which will initially compete in various junior racing categories including the Italian F4 Championship and Formula 3. The team has secured assets from AIX Racing, including an FIA F3 entry, and has applied to join the FIA F2 grid. Norris has appointed Rene Rosin, the former team principal of Prema, to lead the new team, citing his extensive experience and successful track record in developing young drivers.
Norris emphasized the importance of having a strong leader at the helm, noting that Rosin has guided numerous drivers to Formula 1, including Charles Leclerc and Oscar Piastri. He believes Rosin's passion for winning and team-building makes him the ideal choice for LN4 Fusion. The partnership aims to create a long-term project that not only focuses on immediate success but also on developing a robust racing program.Sat 19 Sep · 12:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli shares Valentino Rossi dream for own F1 careerKimi Antonelli, currently competing in his second season of Formula 1, has expressed his desire to emulate the strong fan connection that Valentino Rossi maintained throughout his illustrious career. Rossi, a seven-time MotoGP champion, retired in 2021 but continues to be a beloved figure among fans, often seen in merchandise at races. Antonelli, who is on track to potentially become the youngest world champion at just 20 years old, aspires to achieve a similar level of admiration and support from fans in his own racing career.
In addition to his aspirations in F1, Antonelli has formed friendships with notable athletes in other sports, including MotoGP's Marco Bezzecchi and tennis star Jannik Sinner. He values these relationships for the motivation and understanding they provide in managing the pressures of elite competition. Antonelli's admiration for Rossi's ability to attract a large audience and his mental resilience during races highlights his ambition to create a lasting impact in the world of motorsport.Sat 19 Sep · 09:30 UTC
via F1iWolff reveals why Antonelli won’t ‘lose the plot’ in title bidToto Wolff, the Mercedes team principal, has expressed confidence in Kimi Antonelli's ability to maintain focus during his championship bid, as Antonelli currently holds an 81-point lead. Wolff noted that the young driver has shown no signs of being distracted by his success, attributing this to Antonelli's grounded personality and strong family support. Despite the pressure of leading the championship, Antonelli remains committed to his racing approach, focusing on each race without overcomplicating his strategy.
Wolff emphasized that while the team is aware of potential distractions, Antonelli's mindset allows him to compartmentalize his life and racing. The Mercedes team is actively discussing how to support Antonelli's development while ensuring he stays focused on the track. Antonelli himself echoed this sentiment, stating that he is fortunate to have a supportive team and family that keeps him grounded, allowing him to concentrate on performing his best in each race.Sat 19 Sep · 08:09 UTC
via RacingNews365Toto Wolff confirms 'unlock' needed to baffling George Russell mysteryToto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes, has acknowledged that the team is puzzled by George Russell's inconsistent performance compared to teammate Kimi Antonelli. Despite a strong start to the season, Russell has only managed to win two races, while Antonelli has dominated with eight victories, creating an 81-point gap between them. Wolff emphasized the need for analysis to understand the underlying issues affecting Russell's pace, particularly highlighted during the recent Spanish Grand Prix.
Russell himself has pointed out that the changes in car regulations have not suited his driving style, which relies on smoother inputs rather than the high-rotation techniques favored this season. He has conceded that the championship is out of reach for him this year, acknowledging Antonelli's deserving lead. Wolff noted that the imbalance in performance between drivers is a common challenge in the sport, and he aims to provide support and transparency to both drivers as they navigate the season.Sat 19 Sep · 07:00 UTCPage 9 of 44