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via RacingNews365Fernando Alonso makes 'amazing' three-second claim as Aston Martin wait endsFernando Alonso has highlighted a significant improvement for Aston Martin, claiming they have reduced their qualifying deficit by three seconds over the last two races following recent upgrades. Despite not making it to Q2 at the Dutch Grand Prix, Alonso noted that the team is closing the gap to the leaders, with a marked difference in performance compared to previous races. He emphasized the need for continued development to maintain this momentum.
While Alonso is optimistic about the upgrades, teammate Lance Stroll has a more cautious view, suggesting the improvements are minimal. Alonso pointed out that their chassis performs well in races, which could help them capitalize on competitors with older tires. However, he also acknowledged the challenges posed by the track layout, particularly regarding overtaking opportunities.
Sun 23 Aug · 09:20 UTC
via f1technical.netAston Martin offers its first assessment of the upgraded Honda power unitAston Martin faced a challenging qualifying session at the Dutch Grand Prix, with both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll unable to advance beyond Q1. Despite their disappointing positions, the team expressed optimism about the improvements made with their upgraded Honda power unit and overall package, noting that they are closer to the leading teams than in previous races. Alonso's qualifying time was 1:13.650, while Stroll's was 1:13.818, placing them 18th and 19th respectively.
Team Principal Adrian Newey highlighted the progress in chassis and aerodynamic performance but acknowledged that driveability remains a key issue. Both drivers reported that while their qualifying pace was lacking, they believe their race pace could be more competitive. The team aims to address the driveability concerns to unlock further performance as they head into the race.
Sun 23 Aug · 06:54 UTC
via gpfans.comAston Martin to wear black armbands at Dutch Grand Prix after tragic death of beloved team memberAston Martin has announced that they will pay tribute to their late team member, Mick 'Biscuit' Fern, by wearing black armbands during the Dutch Grand Prix. Fern, a respected tyre technician, had a long history with the team, dating back to 1999, and he was known for his warmth and support within the paddock. He recently passed away after battling health issues, which the team acknowledged with a heartfelt statement expressing their condolences to his family and friends.
The tribute will include a special message on the front wing end plate of Aston Martin's cars. Many in the F1 community, including current drivers and former colleagues, have shared their memories and condolences for Fern, emphasizing the impact he had on those around him. The team and the wider motorsport community are mourning the loss of a beloved figure who contributed significantly to the sport.
Sat 22 Aug · 21:30 UTC
via gpfans.comAston Martin Drivers Critique Honda Engine Upgrade After Dutch GPLance Stroll and Fernando Alonso expressed disappointment with Honda's new power unit following their early exit in qualifying at the Dutch Grand Prix. Stroll described the upgrade as a 'lottery' and stated it was 'not nearly enough' to improve their performance.+ 1 moreSat 22 Aug · 19:15 UTC
via PlanetF1Bernie Collins: Everything you need to know about Sky F1 punditBernie Collins, a former performance engineer and strategist in Formula 1, has transitioned to a pundit role with Sky F1 for the 2023 season. Originally from Northern Ireland, she pursued mechanical engineering at Queen's University Belfast and began her F1 career with McLaren in 2009. Over the years, she gained significant experience, working with teams like Force India and Aston Martin, where she specialized in race strategy.
Collins is particularly proud of her role in Sergio Perez's victory at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix, which showcased her strategic decision-making. After leaving Aston Martin in 2022, she sought a better work-life balance and decided to share her insights through punditry and her published book. Collins maintains a presence on social media, where she engages with her audience.
Sat 22 Aug · 14:00 UTC
via grandprix.comAlonso to meet with owner Stroll for contract talksFernando Alonso is preparing for contract discussions with Aston Martin's owner, Lawrence Stroll, as he evaluates his future with the team. The talks come amid challenges faced by Aston Martin's newly introduced Honda-powered package, which encountered drivability issues during the recent Sprint qualifying at Zandvoort, where Alonso finished last. Despite these setbacks, Alonso acknowledges that the new engine represents progress, although it requires further refinement and understanding.
The ongoing discussions about Alonso's contract are particularly significant as Aston Martin has recently altered its ownership structure. Alonso, who had previously suggested a decision would be made in the summer, now states that there is no immediate deadline. He plans to continue discussions with Stroll and potentially with Adrian Newey at the factory, as the team works to address the technical challenges presented by the new power unit.
via gpfans.comAston Martin confirm pitlane start for Fernando Alonso at F1 Dutch Grand PrixAston Martin has confirmed that Fernando Alonso will begin the sprint race at the Dutch Grand Prix from the pitlane due to issues encountered during qualifying. Alonso's performance was hindered by a malfunctioning straight line mode, resulting in a last-place finish in the qualifying session. The team made overnight setup changes to address these problems, which they hope will improve performance during the race.
The sprint race is set to start at 11:00 UK time, and Alonso expressed that he is still in the early stages of understanding the impact of Honda's recent power unit upgrade. The team had entered the weekend with optimism following a significant upgrade package, but the qualifying issues were an unwelcome setback as they continue to gather data on the new components.Sat 22 Aug · 09:57 UTC
via Formula1.comHow Alpine's upgrades put Gasly into the midfield battleAlpine's Pierre Gasly showcased a strong performance by qualifying P8 for the Sprint at the Dutch Grand Prix, aided by significant upgrades to the car. These enhancements, which include a revised floor and rear wing, were crucial for Alpine as they aim to regain their position in the Constructors' Championship, having recently fallen behind Racing Bulls. Gasly expressed optimism about the upgrades, noting improvements in grip and overall car response during practice sessions.
Gasly's performance in the Sprint Qualifying positions him as a key contender in the midfield battle. He acknowledged the challenges faced earlier in the season but remains focused on the potential for further development. With his teammate Colapinto set to receive the upgrades in the next race, Alpine is looking to build on this momentum and secure valuable points in the upcoming races.
Fri 21 Aug · 20:45 UTC
via Motorsport.comFranco Colapinto reveals details of Milan car robbery during F1 summer breakAfter reporting the theft, Colapinto returned to Monaco, only to receive a call from the police informing him that they had found his wallet. He made a long drive back to Milan to recover his items, humorously reflecting on the ordeal and the loss of his mate, while currently sitting 12th in the drivers' championship.
Fri 21 Aug · 18:00 UTC
via gpfans.comFernando Alonso Highlights Engine Issues During Dutch Grand Prix QualifyingFernando Alonso experienced significant difficulties during the F1 Sprint qualifying at the Dutch Grand Prix. Aston Martin confirmed that a problem with the Honda power unit contributed to Alonso's struggles on track.+ 2 moreFri 21 Aug · 17:45 UTC
via Motorsport.comFernando Alonso Highlights Challenges with Honda's New F1 EngineAston Martin driver Fernando Alonso has reported difficulties with Honda's new engine during sprint qualifying at Zandvoort. He emphasized the need for further optimization to improve the car's driveability.+ 1 moreFri 21 Aug · 16:59 UTC
via Motorsport.comRegressing Haas "10th best" in F1 after Aston Martin upgrades - Oliver BearmanOliver Bearman from Haas F1 Team has acknowledged that the team is currently the 10th best in Formula 1 after being overtaken by Aston Martin. Despite a strong start to the 2026 season, where they scored points in five of the first six races, Haas has failed to score in the last five races, largely due to a lack of car upgrades since May. This decline has left them clinging to seventh place in the championship standings.
Bearman highlighted that the team's limited budget restricts their ability to compete with larger teams that can introduce upgrades more frequently. He expressed disappointment over the team's current position, noting that while they started the season competitively, they have been unable to maintain that pace as rivals continue to improve their cars. The situation reflects a broader challenge for Haas as they navigate the development race in the current regulatory environment.Fri 21 Aug · 12:31 UTC
via Motorsport WeekFIA confirms court date for F1 Monaco GP penalty hearingThe FIA has confirmed a date for the International Court of Appeal hearing regarding the penalties imposed during the Monaco Grand Prix. Red Bull and McLaren are appealing the reinstatement of Pierre Gasly's podium finish, which was granted after Alpine successfully argued that a timing system error had led to incorrect penalties for several drivers, including Gasly. As a result, Gasly's penalties were overturned, while others who served their penalties during the race could not appeal their outcomes.
The hearing is scheduled for August 25th at the FIA's headquarters in Paris and will be conducted behind closed doors. The decision will be made public following the hearing. This situation has raised concerns about the consistency of penalty enforcement among drivers who faced similar infractions during the race.
Fri 21 Aug · 11:00 UTCColapinto faces awkward Zandvoort comparisonFranco Colapinto is in a challenging position at the Zandvoort race, as Alpine has allocated its latest upgrade package solely to teammate Pierre Gasly. Originally intended for both drivers at the upcoming Monza race, the upgrade's early arrival leaves Colapinto with an older car specification for this weekend. He acknowledges the dilemma of wanting to perform well while also recognizing that a significant performance gap could indicate the upgrade's effectiveness.
Colapinto is focused on demonstrating the upgrade's potential before it is available for his car and aims to help Alpine recover lost ground in the midfield standings. He also sees a chance to score points with Yuki Tsunoda's temporary return, emphasizing the need for the team to seize opportunities to improve their position in the championship.
via CrashF1 Teams Introduce Significant Upgrades for Dutch Grand PrixAs Formula 1 resumes after the summer break, teams have brought a total of 23 upgrades for the Dutch Grand Prix. Notably, Ferrari and McLaren are leading the charge in the ongoing development battle.
+ 4 moreFri 21 Aug · 08:29 UTC
via Motorsport WeekAston Martin Secures Investment from Billionaire Woody JohnsonAston Martin has completed a minority stake sale to American billionaire Woody Johnson. This investment comes just ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix.+ 1 moreThu 20 Aug · 17:51 UTC
via F1iAston Martin F1 sells minor stake to billionaire Woody JohnsonAston Martin F1 has welcomed Robert Wood Johnson, an American billionaire and owner of the NFL's New York Jets, as a new minority shareholder and vice chairman. His investment is part of team owner Lawrence Stroll's strategy to enhance the team's commercial footprint, particularly in the lucrative US market. Johnson, who previously served as the US ambassador to the UK, has a strong appreciation for Aston Martin's heritage and aims to help the team compete at the highest levels of Formula 1.
Stroll views Johnson's experience in professional sports as a valuable asset for Aston Martin's ambitions. The team has been investing in its infrastructure and technical operations to become a serious contender in F1. While it remains unclear whether Johnson's stake involves new funds or existing shares, his presence is expected to bring influential connections and enhance the team's commercial prospects as they seek to grow their fanbase in the United States.
Thu 20 Aug · 17:05 UTC
via RacingNews365Woody Johnson Acquires Minority Stake in Aston Martin F1 TeamAmerican billionaire Woody Johnson has purchased a minority stake in the Aston Martin Formula 1 team. Johnson, who is also the owner of Crystal Palace, will join the board of directors as vice chairman.+ 5 moreThu 20 Aug · 15:34 UTC
via PlanetF1F1 team valuations surge as Aston Martin receives fresh investmentThe valuations of Formula 1 teams have significantly increased, with Ferrari leading at $7.1 billion, followed by Mercedes at $6.4 billion and McLaren at $5.2 billion. This surge in value is attributed to various factors, including substantial investments, changes in prize money distribution from the 2021 Concorde Agreement, and the overall growth of interest in the sport, particularly due to the Netflix series 'Drive to Survive'.
The financial landscape for F1 teams has transformed, with many teams experiencing ten-fold increases in their valuations since 2020. The sport's potential for further growth is recognized, especially in under-commercialized markets like the United States, suggesting that team values could reach unprecedented levels in the future.Thu 20 Aug · 15:32 UTC
via PlanetF1NFL Owner Woody Johnson Joins Aston Martin F1 Team BoardWoody Johnson, an NFL team owner, has acquired a significant stake in the Aston Martin Formula 1 team. He has been appointed as Vice Chairman and will join the team's Board of Directors.+ 1 moreThu 20 Aug · 14:56 UTCPage 10 of 16