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via PlanetF1FIA confirms double Spanish GP punishment; Honda change; Brown receives apology – roundupThe FIA has confirmed a double punishment following the Spanish Grand Prix, where Audi driver Gabriel Bortoleto was warned for moving under braking, and Racing Bulls were fined €200 for Yuki Tsunoda's speeding in the pit lane. This investigation highlights the stewards' commitment to maintaining safety and adherence to regulations during the race.
In other news, Honda has announced a leadership change, promoting Yoichiro Fukao to large project leader after the race. Additionally, Romain Grosjean issued an apology to Zak Brown regarding a misunderstanding about comments made about Oscar Piastri. Lando Norris faced a setback during the race due to a Virtual Safety Car, which altered his strategy, while Ferrari drivers Hamilton and Leclerc are set to participate in a tyre test at Imola.
Mon 14 Sep · 18:01 UTC
via F1iHonda announces leadership change in F1 power unitHonda Racing has appointed a new project leader for its Formula 1 power unit development programme as part of a strategic overhaul. This decision comes in response to a challenging start to the 2026 season, with the aim of accelerating development ahead of upcoming regulatory changes.
+ 1 moreMon 14 Sep · 13:11 UTC
via espn.comHonda replacing engine chief after poor start to '26Honda is making a leadership change in its Formula 1 power unit project, appointing Yoichiro Fukao to replace Tetsushi Kakuda effective October 1, 2026. This decision comes after a disappointing start to the season as Aston Martin's engine supplier, where the team has only managed to score three points and sits near the bottom of the standings.
The change is part of Honda's strategy to enhance its development framework following the introduction of new regulations. The company aims to ensure a smooth transfer of technical expertise to the next generation of engineers, as it seeks to improve performance after a challenging start under the new rules.
Mon 14 Sep · 11:33 UTC
via gpfans.comHonda replace F1 boss after nightmare Aston Martin seasonHonda has announced a leadership change in their Formula 1 power unit department following a disappointing season with Aston Martin. Tetsushi Kakuda will be replaced by Yoichiro Fukao, effective October 1, 2026, as part of a planned transition to enhance power unit development and support the next generation of engineers.
Despite expectations, Aston Martin has struggled this season, remaining at the back of the grid due to both their chassis design and Honda's underperforming power unit. Honda has indicated that they will provide a major upgrade before the 2027 season, aiming to improve their performance in collaboration with Aston Martin.
Mon 14 Sep · 11:27 UTC
via theguardian.comSpanish GP plans to change Madring after fierce criticism from F1 driversFollowing the inaugural Spanish Grand Prix at the Madring, there are plans to modify the circuit due to significant criticism from drivers. The race, which saw Kimi Antonelli take victory, was characterized by a lack of overtaking opportunities, leading to disappointment among competitors and fans alike. Drivers like Lando Norris and Max Verstappen highlighted the need for design changes to enhance racing excitement and facilitate overtaking.
Discussions regarding potential alterations to the track layout are already underway, with the circuit's management open to suggestions. Despite the logistical success of the event, the racing experience fell short of expectations, prompting calls for improvements to ensure a more thrilling competition in future races.
Mon 14 Sep · 10:57 UTC
via grandprix.comWolff questions George Russell's inconsistent paceToto Wolff has expressed concern over George Russell's lack of consistent pace during races. The team is seeking to understand why Russell's speed fluctuates rather than remaining steady throughout the weekend.
via f1oversteer.comLawrence Stroll Mercedes rumours ‘alarmed’ Honda before they replaced F1 engine bossHonda has decided to replace Tetsushi Kakuda with his deputy Yoichiro Fukao as the leader of their F1 project, effective next month. This change comes after a poor start to their partnership with Aston Martin, which is currently struggling in the standings due to both the performance of Honda's power unit and issues with their chassis design.
Lawrence Stroll has been negotiating with Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains to explore alternative engine options, aiming to pressure Honda into improving their performance. The recent disappointing results have prompted Honda to reaffirm their commitment to F1, with promises of enhanced competitiveness in the upcoming season.
Mon 14 Sep · 10:00 UTC
via f1technical.netMercedes reveal how Ferrari's strategy influenced their own strategy decisionsAt the Spanish Grand Prix, Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes executed a well-timed strategy that capitalized on a Virtual Safety Car, leading to his victory. Starting from second, Antonelli initially lost ground but regained the lead after a quick pit stop during the VSC, allowing him to control the race and secure his eighth win of the season. Mercedes' Trackside Engineering Director Andrew Shovlin praised the team's execution and readiness to adapt to changing race conditions.
George Russell, on the other hand, faced a more complicated race. After starting sixth, he made contact with another driver and had to adjust his strategy to differentiate from Ferrari's Charles Leclerc. Despite switching to medium compound tyres during the VSC, Russell struggled with performance and ultimately returned to hard tyres. The race highlighted the unexpected effectiveness of the hard compound, which influenced the overall strategy for many teams, including Mercedes, who emerged with valuable points and a strong position in the championship.
Mon 14 Sep · 08:22 UTC
via f1technical.netWolff offers explanation for Russell's suboptimal strategy at the MadringKimi Antonelli achieved a significant milestone by winning the Spanish Grand Prix at the newly introduced Madring circuit, marking Mercedes' first victory at this venue. Despite facing challenges during the race, including a strong start and a strategic pit stop during a Virtual Safety Car, Antonelli managed to secure the lead and maintain control to finish first. Team principal Toto Wolff praised Antonelli's performance and highlighted the importance of the victory for the team's morale, especially given the lack of recent upgrades to the car.
On the other hand, George Russell had a more difficult race, finishing in fifth place after a series of strategic missteps. Initially starting on hard tires, Russell's strategy was compromised by the Virtual Safety Car, leading to a switch to medium tires that did not perform as expected. Wolff acknowledged the unfortunate timing of the VSC for Russell but remained optimistic about the team's performance overall. With the championship battle intensifying, Mercedes is looking forward to the upcoming triple-header races with renewed confidence.Mon 14 Sep · 08:22 UTC
via f1technical.net"It’s kind of the story of the season," claims Russell after he lost further ground ...Kimi Antonelli secured his eighth victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season at the Spanish Grand Prix, taking advantage of a well-timed pit stop during the Virtual Safety Car period. Despite a strong start, Antonelli faced challenges early in the race but managed to regain control and finish ahead of his competitors, further solidifying his lead in the Drivers' Championship. George Russell, on the other hand, struggled with strategy decisions that left him finishing in fifth place, despite starting sixth and showing good pace on hard tires.
Russell's race was marred by a contact incident and a costly pit stop during the VSC, which he felt disadvantaged him compared to those on medium tires. After the race, he reflected on the team's strategy and expressed a shift in focus towards supporting Mercedes in the Constructors' Championship, acknowledging the difficulties of overtaking at the Madrid circuit. With the championship heading to Baku, Russell emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum as the season progresses.Mon 14 Sep · 08:22 UTC
via PlanetF1Honda makes new announcement after Spanish Grand PrixFollowing the Spanish Grand Prix, Honda revealed a restructuring of its Formula 1 power unit leadership. This change comes as Aston Martin has struggled in the 2026 season, managing only three points across 14 races. The team has faced ongoing issues with engine performance, despite a recent upgrade that coincided with Alonso's improved finish at the Dutch Grand Prix.
Yoichiro Fukao has been promoted to lead the power unit development program, replacing Tetsushi Kakuda. This transition is part of Honda's strategy to enhance its engine development and prepare for upcoming regulatory changes in Formula 1. The company is focused on establishing a robust framework to ensure competitiveness in future seasons.Mon 14 Sep · 06:43 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi Antonelli’s 2026 safety car record completely disproves Toto Wolff’s ‘unlucky’ claimKimi Antonelli secured his eighth victory of the 2026 season at the Spanish Grand Prix, benefiting from a virtual safety car that altered the race dynamics. Initially trailing Lando Norris, Antonelli capitalized on Norris's decision to stay out during the VSC, allowing him to take the lead after Charles Leclerc's late pit stop.
Toto Wolff's assertion that Antonelli had been 'unlucky' with safety cars throughout the season is contradicted by Antonelli's favorable outcomes from several VSCs. Despite a few instances where he faced challenges, such as losing the lead in Spa, Antonelli's overall performance has been bolstered by strategic pit stops during safety car periods.Mon 14 Sep · 06:00 UTCWikimedia Commons · Yu Chu Chin · CC BY-SA 4.0Reliability now Antonelli’s main rival – WolffToto Wolff highlighted that reliability issues may pose the biggest challenge to Kimi Antonelli's pursuit of the 2026 world championship after he secured a victory in Madrid, extending his lead to 81 points. Despite acknowledging that Lando Norris was the faster driver during the race, Antonelli remains focused on maintaining his performance without adopting a defensive strategy.
Wolff emphasized the importance of addressing mechanical reliability, as the team has experienced fragility in their car and engine this season. While competitors like George Russell and Lando Norris recognize Antonelli's dominance, Ralf Schumacher cautioned against complacency, noting that unforeseen issues could still arise, especially with a car update planned for the next race.
via Formula1.com5 betting lessons after Antonelli wins the Spanish GPKimi Antonelli secured a victory at the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix, showcasing his talent and the capabilities of the Mercedes team. This win is seen as a pivotal moment in the season, contributing to the team's competitive standing in Formula 1.
The race also served as a learning opportunity for bettors, offering valuable lessons on how to approach future betting strategies based on the outcomes and performances observed during the event. Antonelli's success has set a high bar for his upcoming races.
Sun 13 Sep · 21:38 UTC
via gpfans.comMercedes F1 boss Toto Wolf blasts 'bulls*** couch warriors' on Kimi Antonelli conspiracyToto Wolff, the Mercedes F1 team principal, has publicly condemned fans who suggested that the team favored Kimi Antonelli during the Italian Grand Prix. He defended the team's strategic decisions, explaining that Antonelli's choice of starting on hard tyres was part of a calculated plan, which was altered by a red flag incident that affected both drivers' strategies.
Despite some criticism from Russell's fans regarding the pit stop strategy, Wolff maintained that the decisions made were correct. Russell himself recognized Antonelli's impressive drive and the role of the virtual safety car in the race, indicating that the outcome could have been different without it.Sun 13 Sep · 20:57 UTC
via f1chronicle.comToto Wolff Dismisses ‘Couch Warriors’ Criticism of Mercedes’ Handling of George Russell at MonzaToto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes, defended the team's decision to pit George Russell during the Italian Grand Prix, which critics claimed cost him the win. He referred to the critics as 'couch warriors' and emphasized that the tyre strategy was sound, with Russell on a hard compound suited for a one-stop race while Antonelli, who won, was on fresher mediums after starting on hard tyres.
Wolff acknowledged the challenges of managing two title contenders within the same team and noted that such decisions are part of the competitive nature of Formula 1. He also mentioned a near-collision between Russell and Antonelli late in the race, which could have mirrored Ferrari's earlier mishap, highlighting the fine margins in racing.
Sun 13 Sep · 20:21 UTC/GettyImages-2294377933.webp)
via Formula1.comWolff explains decision on Russell's tyre strategy in MadridToto Wolff, the Mercedes team principal, defended the decision to have George Russell pit twice during the Spanish Grand Prix, despite Russell questioning the strategy during the race. Russell made his first pit stop for medium tyres during a Virtual Safety Car and later switched to hard tyres, ultimately finishing fifth, while his teammate Kimi Antonelli won the race with a one-stop strategy.
After the race, Russell reflected on the tyre choices and acknowledged that the hard tyre was the better option. He also indicated that he felt he could not have won the Drivers' Championship this season, as Antonelli extended his lead to 81 points. Wolff emphasized the need to help Russell unlock his potential, given his previous successes in lower racing categories.Sun 13 Sep · 18:45 UTC
via Crash'Racing gods were with us' - Toto Wolff concedes fortunate Madrid F1 winKimi Antonelli claimed victory at the Spanish Grand Prix, benefiting from a timely virtual safety car that allowed him to close the gap on race leader Lando Norris. The VSC was deployed to recover Lance Stroll's car, which had become stranded, and it significantly altered the race dynamics, enabling Antonelli to pit while Norris lost crucial time. This win marks Antonelli's eighth career victory and extends his championship lead to 81 points.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff expressed his appreciation for the team's strategy and Antonelli's driving under pressure. He noted that the timing of the virtual safety car was fortunate for them, contrasting it with previous races where they faced bad luck. Despite the pressure, Antonelli has maintained a cool demeanor, which Wolff believes is key to his success as the season progresses.
Sun 13 Sep · 16:10 UTC
via f1oversteer.comToto Wolff gives his opinion on Max Verstappen’s upbringing now that his own son is racingToto Wolff has shared insights on Max Verstappen's upbringing, highlighting the intense training and guidance provided by his father, Jos Verstappen. Despite some regrets expressed by Jos, Max acknowledges the necessity of this tough love, which has contributed to their strong relationship and Max's success in Formula 1.
Wolff, who has a son racing in karting, is interested in how his own parenting approach will compare to that of the Verstappens. He admires the dynamic between Max and Jos and has expressed a desire to have Max join Mercedes in the future, although they currently remain fierce competitors.Sun 13 Sep · 12:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comVerstappen seeks overtaking strategies for Spanish GPMax Verstappen acknowledges the difficulty of overtaking at the Spanish Grand Prix. After qualifying third, he emphasizes the need to identify potential overtaking spots to compete with Lando Norris for the win.
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