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via RacingNews365McLaren point to 'no surprise' Ferrari evidence around 'delicate' F1 projectMcLaren has been developing its own version of the innovative 'Macarena' rear-wing design, which Ferrari first introduced during pre-season testing. McLaren's team principal, Andrea Stella, noted that the complexity of this project was evident from Ferrari's lengthy development process, which included multiple tests before the wing was race-ready.
Stella emphasized the importance of trackside data in evaluating the wing's performance, as it is a delicate project with significant aerodynamic implications. While Ferrari and Red Bull have different implementations of the design, McLaren is focused on ensuring their version meets the necessary performance standards before full deployment.
Tue 18 Aug · 12:45 UTC
via gpfans.comThe most expensive British car EVER: Iconic 1990s McLaren F1 sells for $34M at auctionThe iconic 1996 McLaren F1 GTR has set a new record as the most expensive British car sold at auction, fetching $34,655,000 at RM Sotheby's in California. This sale surpasses the previous record held by a 1994 McLaren F1, which sold for $25.31 million in 2025, and a 1956 Aston Martin DBR1 that went for $22.55 million in 2017. The specific chassis sold was the first of its kind produced and had a notable history with McLaren before being owned by Pink Floyd's Nick Mason for 25 years.
In addition to the McLaren's record-breaking sale, the auction also featured the Ferrari Luce, which sold for $40 million, making it the most expensive brand new car ever sold at auction. The McLaren F1 GTR was originally developed for competitive racing and achieved significant success, including winning the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1995. The auction highlights the growing interest and value in classic and performance vehicles.
Tue 18 Aug · 08:45 UTC
via RacingNews365Williams F1 Team Secures Contract Extensions for Sainz and AlbonCarlos Sainz and Alex Albon have both signed contract extensions with the Williams F1 Team, ensuring their presence through 2027. Team principal James Vowles expressed that retaining the drivers is crucial for the team's morale following a challenging 2026 season.+ 16 moreTue 18 Aug · 07:15 UTC
via PlanetF1McLaren reveals its budget cap strategy as rivals question development spendingMcLaren has revealed its strategy regarding the budget cap as the 2026 development race heats up. The team has successfully introduced 32 new parts to its car, the MCL40, since the Miami Grand Prix, outpacing competitors like Ferrari and Red Bull. Team principal Andrea Stella emphasized that McLaren has planned its budget to allow for ongoing upgrades, ensuring they remain competitive as the season progresses. The budget cap for 2026 is set at $215 million, with additional allowances for races beyond the 21st, which McLaren intends to utilize effectively.
As rivals like Ferrari face scrutiny over their spending, McLaren's approach appears to be more sustainable. Stella noted that the upgrades introduced in Hungary are just the beginning of a broader development strategy. With McLaren currently third in the Constructors' Championship, the team is focused on balancing immediate performance improvements with future car development, ensuring they are well-positioned for both this season and the next.
Tue 18 Aug · 07:11 UTC
via grandprix.comVowles eyes Le Mans, but only to winJames Vowles, the Team Principal of Williams Racing, has indicated a potential interest in competing at Le Mans, but emphasizes the need for serious preparation to be competitive. He has been testing racing machinery and has driven with a team in the World Endurance Championship, but insists that his current priority is Formula 1.
Vowles mentioned that he would consider participating in Road to Le Mans to gain necessary experience before racing in the event. He stated that his focus is on achieving success with Williams, and only after winning multiple championships would he contemplate pursuing other racing titles.
via grandprix.comCadillac insists Perez staying despite Williams rumoursCadillac has publicly stated that Sergio Perez will continue with the team for the 2027 season, despite rumors linking him to a potential move to Williams. CEO Dan Towriss and team principal Marcin Budkowski both highlighted Perez's value and the importance of maintaining experienced drivers in a young team, dismissing speculation about other drivers potentially joining Cadillac, including Rafael Camara and Colton Herta.
Additionally, Carlos Sainz's position at Williams remains uncertain, and Herta is focused on achieving the necessary points for a Super Licence to compete in Formula 1. The team's leadership reassured fans and stakeholders that they are satisfied with their current driver lineup and are not considering any changes at this time.
via grandprix.comCarlos Sainz Reportedly Rejects Williams Contract Offer for 2027Carlos Sainz has reportedly turned down a contract offer from Williams for the 2027 season. Pundit Ralf Schumacher has criticized Sainz's decision to remain with the team, suggesting he should explore other opportunities.
via gpfans.comYuki Tsunoda Negotiates Potential Move to IndyCar for 2027Yuki Tsunoda is reportedly in discussions with Meyer Shank Racing regarding a potential seat in the IndyCar Series for the 2027 season. This move comes after Tsunoda's departure from Formula 1, where he previously raced for Red Bull.+ 2 moreMon 17 Aug · 20:30 UTC
via RacingNews365McLaren and Red Bull fighting with contrasting approaches to complex F1 challengeThe article discusses the contrasting approaches of McLaren and Red Bull in addressing the weight reduction challenge in the 2026 Formula 1 season. With the minimum weight limit lowered to 768kg, teams are facing complex engineering problems, and McLaren has opted for a shorter wheelbase design to achieve weight savings, which has resulted in balance and downforce issues.
In contrast, Red Bull has focused on systematically refining structural components to reduce weight while maintaining performance. This method, although time-consuming, has proven effective in improving the car's power-to-weight ratio, highlighting the importance of weight reduction in enhancing lap times.Mon 17 Aug · 16:20 UTC
via the-race.comJust spend more? Mercedes' intriguing theory for McLaren's PU deficitMercedes has provided insights into why McLaren has struggled to maximize the performance of its 2026 power unit compared to the factory team. The differences in exploitation stem from various factors, including spending limitations and the sharing of intellectual property, which affects the simulation tools available to customer teams like McLaren. Despite having a strong partnership with Mercedes, McLaren finds itself somewhat disconnected from the main decision-making processes regarding the power unit's configurations.
McLaren's team principal and technical director have acknowledged the challenges they face in influencing design and installation decisions, which ultimately rest with the Mercedes race team. To address these issues, McLaren is focusing on building its own power unit performance team and improving its processes to better align with the capabilities of the power unit. This effort aims to enhance their competitiveness in the ongoing season.
Mon 17 Aug · 15:30 UTC
via PlanetF1Lando Norris Discusses Impact of Team Orders on McLaren SuccessLando Norris has reflected on the importance of team orders during the 2024 Hungarian Grand Prix. He believes that adhering to these directives was crucial for McLaren's recent achievements in Formula 1.+ 1 moreMon 17 Aug · 15:06 UTC.webp)
via Formula1.comOverview of Current Formula 1 Driver Market DevelopmentsThe Formula 1 driver market is experiencing significant activity as teams assess their line-ups for the upcoming season. Various potential moves and changes are being tracked as the 'silly season' unfolds.
+ 1 moreMon 17 Aug · 13:40 UTC
via PlanetF1Ferrari warn of ‘big swing’ but dismiss McLaren concernsFerrari has chosen to focus on its own performance rather than worrying about McLaren's recent success, particularly after McLaren's victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Team principal Fred Vasseur acknowledged that while McLaren's Lando Norris was exceptionally fast, Ferrari's priority remains on improving their SF-26 car's performance as they continue to compete in the 2026 season. Ferrari is currently 72 points behind Mercedes in the Constructors' Championship, while McLaren trails by 159 points.
Despite McLaren's win, Andrea Stella, McLaren's team principal, noted that Ferrari still possesses the best chassis in terms of cornering grip. He mentioned that while McLaren has made improvements, particularly in medium-high speed corners, they still need to enhance their performance in low-speed corners to consistently challenge Ferrari and Mercedes. Vasseur remains focused on the team's own development, indicating that the competitive landscape can change significantly from race to race.Mon 17 Aug · 12:37 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi Antonelli may have been racing for Williams this year without Toto Wolff’s u-turnKimi Antonelli is currently dominating the 2026 Formula 1 season, leading with a significant points margin that positions him to potentially become the youngest champion in the sport's history. His rise has been remarkable, especially considering his struggles in 2025, where he faced challenges in his debut season in Formula 2 and was overshadowed by teammate George Russell's performance.
Mercedes had originally intended for Antonelli to remain in Formula 2 for an extended period, but the unexpected departure of Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari forced a reassessment of their plans. Wolff's decision to promote Antonelli to the main team has paid off, as he now finds himself in contention for the championship, a scenario that could have been drastically different had the team adhered to their initial strategy.
Mon 17 Aug · 12:00 UTC
via Motorsport WeekMcLaren issues caution to F1 ‘turning point’ possibility after Hungary successMcLaren's recent victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix has raised hopes for a turnaround in their performance, but team principal Andrea Stella remains cautious. He emphasized that while the upgrades implemented in Hungary showed promise, it is too early to determine if this marks a definitive turning point for the team, especially given the competitive nature of the current season and the improvements seen from rival teams.
Stella highlighted that the upgrades are part of a broader strategy and that McLaren's success should be viewed in context. He pointed out that the pole position achieved in Hungary might have been an overachievement, and the team will need to continue monitoring developments as the season progresses. McLaren aims to build on this momentum in the upcoming races, particularly at Zandvoort, where they previously secured a victory.
Mon 17 Aug · 12:00 UTC
via RacingNews365British F1 star with 'unfinished business' after being loaned to rival team - On This DayOn August 17, 2000, Williams announced the loan of Jenson Button to Benetton for two seasons, a move that significantly impacted his career. At just 20 years old, Button had made a notable impression in his debut season, ranking eighth in the drivers' championship with 12 points, but was unable to retain his seat due to Williams' commitment to Juan Pablo Montoya.
Despite his gratitude towards Williams for the opportunity, Button's aspirations to return to the team were never realized. His career progressed through various teams, including Benetton and McLaren, ultimately leading to 15 grand prix victories and a championship title in 2009, but he never raced for Williams again.Mon 17 Aug · 11:50 UTC
via Formula1.comHow McLaren’s 2026 season has played out so farThe article reviews McLaren's performance in the first half of the 2026 Formula 1 season, highlighting both successes and challenges. Lando Norris secured the team's first victory in Hungary, showcasing his strong performance, while Oscar Piastri faced difficulties, including a DNF in Hungary and a DNS in China. The team had a rocky start, with both drivers unable to compete in the Chinese Grand Prix, which significantly impacted their points tally.
Looking ahead, McLaren aims to build on their recent success and improve reliability as they prepare for the second half of the season. Norris believes they can continue to win races, but acknowledges the need for consistent performance and development to remain competitive against other top teams. Team Principal Andrea Stella reiterated the focus on upgrades and reliability to enhance their chances of success.Mon 17 Aug · 10:36 UTC
via Motorsport.comRob Smedley reveals why he turned down F1 team principal rolesRob Smedley, a former race engineer for Ferrari and Williams, has recently declined offers for team principal roles in Formula 1. He articulated his reluctance during a podcast, citing the lack of control over the entire team as a significant factor in his decision. Smedley emphasized that being publicly accountable for a team's performance without having full authority over all aspects does not make sense to him.
During the discussion, Smedley highlighted the pressures associated with the role of a team principal, noting that while he is open to high-pressure positions, he believes that accountability should come with the ability to control all facets of the team. He expressed that it is unreasonable to be held responsible for outcomes when one only has influence over a portion of the team's operations.
Mon 17 Aug · 10:05 UTC
via PlanetF1McLaren makes further upgrade hint after successful Hungary F1 packageFollowing a successful performance at the Hungarian Grand Prix, McLaren's team principal Andrea Stella indicated that additional upgrades are planned for the upcoming races after the summer break. Lando Norris's victory marked a significant achievement for the team, as he secured both pole position and the win, becoming the fifth different winner in the recent races, highlighting the competitive nature of the season.
McLaren is currently positioned third in the Constructors' standings, while Norris ranks fifth among drivers. The team is optimistic about the potential of their upgrade package, which is part of a broader strategy to enhance their performance as the season progresses. Stella emphasized that the upgrades are part of a series of improvements aimed at capitalizing on the early opportunities presented by the current regulations.Mon 17 Aug · 09:17 UTC
via RaceFansSainz Jnr vs Albon: 2026 team mates head-to-head at summer break | Formula 1The 2026 Formula 1 season has been challenging for both Carlos Sainz Jnr and Alexander Albon, who are teammates at Williams. Despite Sainz's previous success with podium finishes in 2025, the current season has seen both drivers struggling to perform, often finding themselves at the back of the pack during qualifying and races.
Sainz's move to Williams came after his departure from Ferrari, and he is now trying to establish himself as the team's leading driver. However, the disappointing performance of the team has left both drivers in a difficult position as they aim to improve their standings in the championship.
Mon 17 Aug · 06:27 UTCPage 15 of 23