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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 WeekFerrari to mitigate 2026 F1 ’emergency’ with brand-new power unit – reportFerrari has faced significant challenges with its power unit in the 2026 Formula 1 season, which has been described as its weakest link. Despite initial optimism, including podium finishes for Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, the team has struggled to maintain competitive performance as rivals have caught up. Internal issues, including the departure of key personnel, have compounded these difficulties, leading to the characterization of the power unit project as an 'emergency'.
Looking ahead, Team Principal Fred Vasseur has confirmed that Ferrari will develop a brand-new engine for the 2027 season in an effort to regain competitiveness. While acknowledging that small improvements are being made, he emphasized the need for a more substantial upgrade to close the performance gap with rivals like Mercedes. The team's current struggles have also impacted Hamilton's championship aspirations, particularly following a disappointing race in Spain.
Sat 19 Sep · 16:34 UTC
via gpfans.comMercedes chief reveals 'secret codes' team changes every weekMercedes' trackside engineering director, Andrew Shovlin, disclosed that the team employs secret codes for communication with their drivers, particularly during critical race moments. This practice is not new in motorsports but is rarely discussed in Formula 1. Shovlin highlighted a specific instance during the Spanish Grand Prix where Kimi Antonelli successfully pitted under a virtual safety car, aided by these codes.
Shovlin explained that the team focuses on being prepared for various race scenarios, including virtual safety cars and safety car situations. He noted that Antonelli was aware of the VSC window and adjusted his speed accordingly to ensure he could pit effectively. The use of these codes is strategic, as they change weekly to prevent other teams from deciphering their communication.
Sat 19 Sep · 16:28 UTC
via RacingNews365Colton Herta names 'chaotic' F1 experience he actually enjoysColton Herta has shared his positive perspective on the demanding experience of alternating between Formula 1 and Formula 2 cars while driving for Cadillac. He has participated in three FP1 sessions this season and has driven in various locations including Barcelona, Hungary, and Italy. Herta's final FP1 session is still pending confirmation, but it is expected not to conflict with his F2 commitments. Despite a crash during his last F2 practice, he quickly adapted to driving a different car and expressed enjoyment in the chaotic nature of his schedule.
Herta highlighted that the hectic environment keeps him focused, as he moves rapidly from meetings to driving sessions. He believes that with more time in the car, he is making progress and becoming more comfortable with the machinery. Herta noted that understanding the car's issues from the drivers' perspectives helps him improve and shorten his learning curve, leading to a positive outlook on his development in Formula 1.
Sat 19 Sep · 16:10 UTC
via RacingNews365Sergio Perez outlines Cadillac's Baku points strategySergio Perez has shared his strategy for Cadillac as the team aims for its first points finish in Formula 1 at the Baku Grand Prix. He believes that a boost from Ferrari could enhance their chances of achieving this milestone.Sat 19 Sep · 14:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMattia Binotto praises Gabriel Bortoleto's talentAudi team principal Mattia Binotto has praised Gabriel Bortoleto, comparing the young driver to Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher. Binotto highlighted that Bortoleto possesses two key traits reminiscent of those he observed while working with Schumacher at Ferrari.
+ 2 moreSat 19 Sep · 14:00 UTC
via gpfans.comRed Bull's master move revealed to get Max Verstappen to sign a new F1 dealMax Verstappen has secured a contract extension with Red Bull Racing that will keep him with the team until 2030. A significant factor in this decision was the freedom to explore other racing categories, particularly prestigious endurance events like Le Mans and Daytona. Verstappen has expressed a strong interest in these races, having previously participated in the 24-hour Nurburgring, where he had a thrilling experience despite a mechanical failure that ended his race early.
While Verstappen is eager to expand his racing portfolio, he emphasizes that any participation in additional events will depend on his Formula 1 commitments and the competitiveness of the field. He is particularly keen on ensuring that his schedule allows for these ventures without conflicting with his primary obligations in F1. The 2027 race calendars for both Le Mans and Daytona align well with his F1 schedule, providing a potential opportunity for him to compete in these iconic endurance races.Sat 19 Sep · 13:57 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 gpfans.comFerrari unveils black race suit for Charles LeclercFerrari has announced a unique black race suit for driver Charles Leclerc, set to debut at the Singapore Grand Prix. This design marks a departure from the team's traditional red color scheme.+ 1 moreSat 19 Sep · 11:29 UTC
via f1oversteer.comFernando Alonso hints at potential retirement from F1Fernando Alonso has suggested that he may retire from Formula 1 at the end of the 2026 season, with a possible move to the World Endurance Championship. His recent behaviour during the race at the Madrid circuit has raised speculation about his future in the sport.+ 1 moreSat 19 Sep · 11:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Mercedes confirms W17 upgrade for Bahrain Grand PrixMercedes has announced that its next major upgrade for the W17 will be deployed at the Bahrain Grand Prix. Trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin stated that the team is aiming to enhance its performance and regain competitiveness in the 2026 season.
+ 3 moreSat 19 Sep · 10:27 UTC
via RacingNews365Charles Leclerc wagers Mercedes bet after 'vicious circle' observationCharles Leclerc has highlighted the ongoing challenges Ferrari faces with its engine performance, particularly in comparison to Mercedes. He described a 'vicious circle' where the lack of power from Ferrari's engine limits their ability to deploy power effectively, especially at the end of long straights. Despite this, Ferrari remains a close competitor in the championship as they work to resolve these issues.
Leclerc also mentioned the introduction of an ADUO-boosted engine during the Italian Grand Prix, expressing optimism that it has not sustained critical damage following a crash. However, he acknowledged that if the engine is damaged, he would need to take an engine penalty to introduce new parts into his pool before the season concludes.Sat 19 Sep · 10:20 UTC
via Formula1.comHow Justin Rose and McLaren are pursuing marginal gains in golfJustin Rose has embraced his role as the first global ambassador for McLaren Golf, a partnership that aims to bring the precision and performance ethos of Formula 1 to the sport of golf. At the BMW PGA Championship, he reflected on his experiences testing prototype irons developed in collaboration with McLaren's engineering team, highlighting the potential for innovation in golf equipment. Rose's goal is to convert his near-misses in major tournaments into victories by leveraging the meticulous approach of F1.
The launch of McLaren Golf has garnered attention in both the golf and F1 communities, with Rose actively participating in events and showcasing the new clubs. The partnership is not only about the current products but also about future developments, including drivers and woods that will incorporate advanced engineering techniques. Rose's connection to McLaren has been well received by fans, and he expresses a deep respect for the skills of F1 drivers, emphasizing the unique challenges and precision required in both sports.
Sat 19 Sep · 09:43 UTC
via gpfans.comToto Wolff reveals details of Max Verstappen meetingToto Wolff recently addressed the speculation surrounding his meeting with Max Verstappen, which took place in Sardinia. The photos from this meeting led to rumors about Verstappen potentially leaving Red Bull for Mercedes. However, these rumors were put to rest when Red Bull confirmed that Verstappen has signed a contract extension that will keep him with the team until 2030.
In an interview, Wolff mentioned that the social media frenzy surrounding the photos was unintended and highlighted the challenges of privacy in today's digital age. He also confirmed that George Russell's contract with Mercedes has been finalized, although the team has not yet made a formal announcement regarding this.Sat 19 Sep · 08:45 UTC
via Motorsport.comMercedes plans upgrades for Malaysia Grand PrixMercedes is set to introduce significant upgrades to its car at the upcoming Malaysian Grand Prix. The team aims to improve its qualifying performance after experiencing a drought of pole positions in recent races.+ 3 moreSat 19 Sep · 08:05 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLewis Hamilton ‘cherished’ what Ferrari mechanics did for him before he even joined the teamLewis Hamilton expressed his appreciation for the support he received from Ferrari mechanics during the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix, even while he was still a Mercedes driver. After finishing third in the race, he noted the absence of his own team members who were occupied with recovering George Russell's car, leading to Ferrari mechanics celebrating his achievement instead. This moment made Hamilton feel a connection with Ferrari, which he described as feeling like 'his team' for that weekend.
Hamilton signed a contract to race for Ferrari starting in 2025, having always dreamed of driving for the iconic team. His long and successful tenure with Mercedes included 246 races and six world championships, but he felt a move to Ferrari was necessary as Mercedes struggled in the new ground-effect era. Hamilton acknowledged that not racing for Ferrari would have been a significant regret, especially as he approaches retirement.Sat 19 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via gpfans.comFerrari boss 'annoyed' with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, claims F1 insiderFerrari team principal Fred Vasseur is reportedly frustrated with drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc following a first-lap incident during the Italian Grand Prix. Ralf Schumacher suggested that Vasseur's annoyance was due to Hamilton being forced off the track by Leclerc, which negatively impacted Hamilton's race, finishing in tenth place. Leclerc also faced difficulties, crashing shortly after the incident.
In response to the situation, Vasseur spoke with both drivers to remind them of the team's operational principles. Hamilton expressed his desire for clearer communication and 'rules of engagement' to prevent future conflicts. Both drivers later addressed the incident, with Leclerc admitting his mistake and Hamilton noting the importance of their open discussion to move forward.Sat 19 Sep · 07:58 UTC
via gpfans.comFernando Alonso reveals 'shock' after finding out Aston Martin truthFernando Alonso revealed his shock at Aston Martin's performance at the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season, expressing disappointment over the team's competitiveness. Despite high expectations with Adrian Newey's car design and Honda's return, the team struggled with a rushed chassis and engine reliability issues, leaving them near the back of the grid.
In a podcast interview, Alonso shared his thoughts on the team's situation, acknowledging the initial optimism but recognizing the need for improvement. He highlighted the upgrades introduced during the season and expressed hope for better results in the future, emphasizing the talent and motivation within the team to become contenders.Sat 19 Sep · 07:16 UTC
via RacingNews365Lando Norris secures pole position at Spanish Grand PrixLando Norris achieved pole position during the qualifying session for the Spanish Grand Prix, impressively clinching the top spot in the final moments of Q3. McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella commended Norris for his performance amid a challenging weekend.+ 1 moreSat 19 Sep · 06:10 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen comments on Red Bull-Mercedes gapMax Verstappen has commented on the differences between Red Bull's power unit and that of Mercedes, noting the challenges in understanding the performance gap. He emphasized that the two teams operate under different conditions, leading to varying results.+ 1 moreSat 19 Sep · 05:20 UTCPage 15 of 100
