MercedesWilliams 
via Motorsport.comJames Vowles backs Madrid to become 'one to watch' despite calls for changesJames Vowles, the team principal of Williams, expressed his support for Madrid's inaugural Formula 1 event, highlighting the efforts of the organizers despite the usual challenges faced by new venues. He noted that the event was well-managed and praised the location's accessibility, although he acknowledged that the circuit's design limited overtaking opportunities, which could affect future races.
Vowles also discussed the performance of the Williams team during the race, indicating that they struggled with car performance and tire management. He emphasized the need for improvements to enhance the racing experience in subsequent years, while also commending the tire supplier Pirelli for providing effective tires for the event.
Motorsport.comThu 17 Sep · 21:31 UTC
via gpfans.comMercedes star makes F1 comeback as Alpine complete massive signingAlpine has announced the appointment of Mike Elliott as their new chief technical officer, marking his return to Formula 1 after a brief hiatus. With 23 years of experience in the sport, Elliott previously held significant roles at McLaren, Renault, and Mercedes, where he served as technical director until 2023. His hiring is seen as a strategic move to enhance Alpine's technical capabilities as they strive to improve their on-track performance and close the gap to the top teams.
Elliott's track record includes contributions to eight constructors' and eight drivers' championships during his tenure at Mercedes. His departure from the team was marked by gratitude from both Elliott and team principal Toto Wolff, who acknowledged his intelligence and team spirit. Elliott's new role at Alpine will involve overseeing technical and engineering functions at their Enstone factory, as the team looks to build on recent improvements.
gpfans.comThu 17 Sep · 19:55 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLewis Hamilton was 'in awe' of genius Mercedes engineer who's just joined a rival teamAlpine has officially announced the signing of Mike Elliott as their new chief technical officer, bringing extensive experience from his previous roles at Mercedes, McLaren, and Renault. Elliott's tenure at Mercedes was marked by significant contributions to the team's success, particularly during the 2010s, where he played a crucial role in car development. Lewis Hamilton, who worked closely with Elliott, often expressed his admiration for the engineer's intelligence and expertise.
Elliott's departure from Mercedes occurred in the 2023 season, following a shift in the team's design leadership. Despite some criticism of his design philosophy during the 2022 regulations, Elliott's new role at Alpine is expected to enhance the team's technical capabilities. With recent successes, including Pierre Gasly's first pole position, Alpine is optimistic about their future performance in Formula 1.
f1oversteer.comThu 17 Sep · 19:00 UTC
via racer.comMike Elliott appointed Alpine's new chief technical officerAlpine has confirmed the appointment of Mike Elliott as their new Chief Technical Officer. Elliott returns to Formula 1 after leaving his role as technical director at Mercedes at the end of the 2023 season.
racer.com+ 1 moreThu 17 Sep · 16:58 UTC
via Motorsport.comToto Wolff confirms Mercedes began 2027 project earlyMercedes has begun its development work for the 2027 Formula 1 season, according to team principal Toto Wolff. The team is currently leading the 2026 constructors' standings, allowing them to shift focus towards future projects.Motorsport.com+ 1 moreThu 17 Sep · 15:58 UTC
via RacingNews365Williams rising star gains latest promotionKean Nakamura-Berta, an 18-year-old driver from the Williams Academy, is set to step up to Formula 3 with Trident Motorsport for the upcoming season. This promotion follows a successful campaign in the Formula Regional European Championship (FREC), where he secured eight podium finishes, including three victories, ultimately finishing third overall. Nakamura-Berta's racing journey includes a debut in the F4 South East Asia Championship and a runner-up finish in the 2024 Formula 4 UAE Championship.
Nakamura-Berta's rise in motorsport mirrors the paths of previous drivers Rafael Câmara and Freddie Slater, who also transitioned from FREC to F3 with Trident. He expressed excitement about joining a competitive team and acknowledged the support from the Williams programme. Williams sporting director Sven Smeets highlighted the significance of this step for Nakamura-Berta and the opportunities it represents for emerging talent in motorsport.
RacingNews365Thu 17 Sep · 13:23 UTC
via PlanetF1Williams junior secures major breakthrough in new announcementKean Nakamura-Berta, a promising talent from the Williams Driver Academy, has secured a seat with Trident for the 2027 Formula 3 season. This follows an impressive run where he won multiple titles, including the Italian Formula 4 and E4 championships in 2025, and performed strongly in the 2026 Formula Regional European Championship, finishing third overall with three wins and five podiums.
Nakamura-Berta is optimistic about his transition to Formula 3, emphasizing the importance of qualifying pace. He has expressed confidence in his abilities and the support from Williams, which has been instrumental in his development. As he prepares for this new challenge, he looks forward to building new relationships within the Trident team, which has a strong track record in the series.
PlanetF1Thu 17 Sep · 13:03 UTC
via Formula1.comThe power unit manufacturers with the most wins in F1 historyThe article discusses the top ten power unit manufacturers in Formula 1 history based on their total wins. Mercedes and Ferrari are tied at the top with 251 victories each, with notable contributions from drivers like Kimi Antonelli for Mercedes and historical figures like Jose Froilan Gonzalez for Ferrari. Other manufacturers such as Ford Cosworth, Renault, and Honda also feature prominently on the list, showcasing their historical significance and achievements in the sport.
The piece highlights the evolution of these manufacturers over the decades, including their successes and challenges. It notes the impact of various drivers and teams on the manufacturers' win tallies, as well as the transitions between engine suppliers and constructors. The article emphasizes the competitive nature of F1 and the legacy of these power units in shaping the sport's history.
Formula1.comThu 17 Sep · 11:59 UTC
via AutosportBruising F1 2026 will not be the end for George Russell - Toto WolffToto Wolff expressed confidence in George Russell's ability to overcome a challenging 2026 Formula 1 season, where he currently trails teammate Kimi Antonelli by 81 points. Despite entering the season as a favorite, Russell has struggled against Antonelli, who has shown remarkable improvement in his sophomore year, winning consecutive races and solidifying his position as a title contender.
Wolff emphasized that Russell's past successes in various racing categories demonstrate his potential to become a champion. He acknowledged the psychological challenges Russell faces this season but believes that with the right support and mindset, Russell can bounce back and compete for titles in the future.
AutosportWed 16 Sep · 14:12 UTC
via Motorsport.comWas Cadillac “faster” than Williams in Madring F1 race?Cadillac Racing, in its first season in Formula 1, showed some promising pace during the Spanish Grand Prix, particularly with driver Sergio Perez, who managed to keep up with Williams' Alexander Albon until a mechanical issue forced him to retire. Despite finishing 17th, Perez noted that he was competitive and even faster than Albon during certain parts of the race, which provided a glimmer of hope for the team.
On the other hand, teammate Valtteri Bottas struggled throughout the race, finishing at the back and highlighting ongoing reliability concerns. Cadillac has faced numerous challenges this season, including a high number of retirements, but both drivers remain hopeful for improvements in future races, particularly in the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix.Motorsport.comWed 16 Sep · 13:56 UTC
via Motorsport.comHow Kimi Antonelli and Mercedes made their own luck in MadridKimi Antonelli secured victory at the Spanish Grand Prix, benefiting from a timely virtual safety car caused by Lance Stroll's retirement. While Lando Norris missed the opportunity to pit due to the VSC deployment, Antonelli's strategic decision to slow down allowed him to enter the pit lane just in time, gaining the lead in the race.
The Mercedes team played a crucial role in this outcome by predicting the likelihood of a VSC and relaying this information to Antonelli promptly. This quick communication and Antonelli's ability to adjust his speed effectively contributed to his success, showcasing both the driver's skill and the team's strategic foresight.Motorsport.comWed 16 Sep · 12:58 UTC
via f1oversteer.comNico Rosberg warns Kimi Antonelli of title pressureNico Rosberg has cautioned Kimi Antonelli that he could feel increasing pressure in his pursuit of the 2026 Formula 1 championship. Rosberg noted that upgrades from McLaren and Ferrari might challenge Antonelli's current dominance, which includes eight victories this season.f1oversteer.com+ 1 moreWed 16 Sep · 11:00 UTC
via RaceFansStats: Mercedes equal Ferrari as Formula 1’s most successful engine builders | 2026 Spanish Grand Prix stats and factsMercedes has reached a significant milestone by achieving 251 race victories for cars powered by their engines, matching Ferrari's record in Formula 1. This achievement was highlighted by Andrea Kimi Antonelli's recent win at the Spanish Grand Prix, marking a pivotal moment for the Mercedes brand in the sport.
Despite their success, Mercedes has participated in far fewer races compared to Ferrari, which has been a constant presence in Formula 1 since its inception in 1950. Mercedes' long absence from the sport, following the tragic events of the 1955 Le Mans, makes their current success even more remarkable, as they have quickly established themselves as one of the top engine builders in F1 history.
RaceFansWed 16 Sep · 06:15 UTC
via RacingNews365RUMOURToto Wolff confirms Spanish GP talks with FIA as change beckonsToto Wolff has confirmed that discussions are underway between the Spanish Grand Prix organizers and the FIA to address the criticisms directed at the Madring circuit following its debut race. The event was marred by a lack of overtaking, with only four significant passes occurring during the race, leading to dissatisfaction among drivers and fans alike. Wolff noted that while the qualifying session was exciting, the race itself was largely processional due to the track's design, which features tight corners that hinder overtaking opportunities.
Drivers like Lando Norris and Max Verstappen voiced their concerns about the track layout, emphasizing that the combination of braking and steering in certain sections makes overtaking nearly impossible. Wolff mentioned that the circuit's CEO is receptive to feedback and is already in talks with the FIA about potential changes to improve the layout for future races. He expressed optimism about enhancing the overall experience at the venue, aiming for a more competitive and engaging race environment.RacingNews365Wed 16 Sep · 05:15 UTC
via f1chronicle.comLewis Hamilton Concedes There Is No Stopping Kimi Antonelli as His Ferrari Title Hopes FadeLewis Hamilton faced a setback at the Spanish Grand Prix, retiring early due to a brake issue, which has left him significantly behind Kimi Antonelli in the championship standings. After Antonelli secured his eighth victory of the season, Hamilton acknowledged that there seems to be no stopping Antonelli and Mercedes this year, marking a rare moment of surrender from the seven-time champion. Hamilton's retirement dropped him to 101 points behind Antonelli, who is now on track to potentially become the youngest World Champion in Formula 1 history.
Despite the growing gap in points, Antonelli remains focused on taking the season one race at a time, refusing to let the title prospects distract him. Hamilton, on the other hand, now shifts his focus to salvaging his season with Ferrari, as he grapples with the reality of his championship hopes fading. The next race in Baku presents an opportunity for Hamilton to recover, but the significant points deficit will require a strong comeback in the remaining races.
f1chronicle.comWed 16 Sep · 02:04 UTC
via RacingNews365David Coulthard calls Kimi Antonelli a phenomenonKimi Antonelli continues to lead the championship, recently securing his eighth victory of the season in Madrid. Former F1 driver David Coulthard has praised Antonelli's talent, rejecting suggestions that his success is merely due to luck.RacingNews365+ 1 moreTue 15 Sep · 16:10 UTC
via Motorsport WeekRUMOURF1 photographer allegedly put in chokehold by police at Spanish GPDuring the recent Spanish Grand Prix at the Madring circuit, an incident involving a police officer and an FIA-accredited photographer occurred. The photographer, who is contracted to Williams F1, was attempting to access the podium ceremony through a designated media passageway when he was allegedly placed in a chokehold by a member of the Policia Nacional Espanyol. Footage of the altercation has circulated on social media, prompting discussions about the appropriateness of the police's response.
The photographer was reportedly wearing official team attire and had identification confirming his accreditation. Fellow journalist Daniel Atan shared images of the incident, describing it as surreal. Another post claimed that the photographer was assaulted and thrown to the ground while carrying expensive equipment. As of now, the exact reasons behind the police's aggressive reaction remain unclear.
Motorsport WeekTue 15 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Toto Wolff reveals Max Verstappen need for 2027 F1 title tiltToto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes, has outlined what Max Verstappen requires to compete for the championship in 2027. Currently, Verstappen is positioned sixth in the drivers' standings, significantly trailing Kimi Antonelli, who leads the championship. Wolff noted that while Verstappen is an exceptional driver, he needs a top-performing car and engine to be a contender for the title.
Wolff also addressed the impressive performance of Antonelli, who has secured eight wins this season, including notable victories in Japan and Monza. However, he cautioned against drawing direct comparisons between Antonelli and Verstappen, emphasizing the difference in experience and achievements between the two drivers. Wolff's comments highlight the importance of machinery in determining championship outcomes.RacingNews365Tue 15 Sep · 14:30 UTC
via Motorsport.comMercedes explains George Russell’s two-stop strategy in F1 Spanish GPMercedes has explained the rationale behind George Russell's decision to pit during the virtual safety car at the Spanish Grand Prix. Russell, starting on hard tyres, was the only top driver to deviate from a one-stop strategy. The timing of the VSC, which occurred at the end of lap 14, was particularly challenging for him, as it allowed other drivers on softer tyres to benefit while he was forced to adapt his strategy. Russell's pit stop was aimed at gaining an advantage over Leclerc, who was leading the race on hard tyres.
Despite the strategic move, Russell finished in P5, significantly behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli. He managed to set the fastest lap but acknowledged that overtaking was extremely difficult on the Madring track. After the race, Russell expressed his pragmatic view on the situation, indicating that regardless of the strategy employed, his finishing position was likely predetermined due to the race's circumstances.Motorsport.comTue 15 Sep · 11:37 UTC
via grandprix.comVesti calls Mercedes reserve life 'mega brutal'Fred Vesti, the reserve driver for Mercedes, has expressed the challenges he faces in his role, describing it as 'mega brutal'. While he is actively involved in the team's Formula 1 program through simulator work and testing, he finds it difficult to watch his teammates, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, race without being able to participate himself. Vesti's commitment to helping them achieve success as World Champions adds to his frustration as he pursues his own racing ambitions.
At 24 years old, Vesti anticipates continuing as a reserve driver in 2027, while keeping an eye out for any potential racing opportunities in 2028. He acknowledges the difficulty of being so close to the action yet not being able to compete, stating that the role requires him to prioritize the success of others before his own aspirations in Formula 1.grandprix.comTue 15 Sep · 11:35 UTC
via f1oversteer.comRUMOURLewis Hamilton wants ‘key on-track personnel’ replaced after Ferrari’s failed title bidLewis Hamilton has expressed his desire for changes within Ferrari following their disappointing performance this season, particularly after his retirement at the Spanish Grand Prix. With Kimi Antonelli dominating the standings and Ferrari failing to secure a podium in recent races, Hamilton is focusing on the 2027 season and has called for the replacement of key personnel within the team. His relationship with team principal Fred Vasseur has reportedly soured, complicating the potential for these changes to be implemented.
Hamilton has been vocal about his concerns regarding Ferrari's strategy and execution, especially after a challenging race at the Italian Grand Prix. He feels that the team should prioritize drivers based on their standings and has previously requested adjustments both inside and outside the car. As Ferrari approaches another season without a championship, the extent of any changes made could reflect Hamilton's influence within the team.f1oversteer.comTue 15 Sep · 09:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli's Spanish GP win will still "sting", says James HinchcliffeKimi Antonelli secured his eighth victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season at the Spanish Grand Prix, held on September 15, 2026. His win at the Madring circuit allowed him to extend his championship lead to 81 points over teammate George Russell. The race was notably affected by a virtual safety car that Antonelli capitalized on, allowing him to take a cheaper pit stop compared to Lando Norris, who had started from pole position and initially led the race.
Despite his victory, former IndyCar driver James Hinchcliffe remarked that Antonelli would feel a 'sting' knowing that Norris had the faster car throughout the race. Hinchcliffe highlighted that even successful drivers can feel frustrated when they are not the quickest on the track, suggesting that Antonelli's win was a mix of good fortune and his driving skills. This commentary reflects the competitive nature of Formula 1, where drivers strive not only for victory but also for the title of being the best on the day.Motorsport.comTue 15 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via thejudge13.comHamilton admits defeat as Antonelli surges 101 points clearLewis Hamilton has acknowledged that Kimi Antonelli and Mercedes have a significant lead in the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship after his retirement in the Spanish Grand Prix. Hamilton's early exit from the race left him 101 points behind Antonelli, who has been in dominant form this season. Despite the remaining nine races, Hamilton congratulated Antonelli and expressed that the championship seems out of reach for him and Ferrari.
Kimi Antonelli, however, remains focused on the upcoming races and is not considering the championship as decided. After winning in Madrid, he emphasized the importance of continuing to perform well rather than dwelling on his points advantage. With Hamilton now in third place and trailing George Russell, the competition remains fierce, but Antonelli's strong performances have established Mercedes as the team to beat this season.
thejudge13.comTue 15 Sep · 05:58 UTC
via Sky Sports F1Wolff issues title warning despite Antonelli's growing leadKimi Antonelli currently holds an 81-point lead in the Formula 1 championship following his victory at the Spanish Grand Prix. Despite this significant advantage, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has urged caution, highlighting the potential for unexpected events that could impact Antonelli's championship bid. Antonelli's recent back-to-back wins have solidified his position, but Wolff insists that both the driver and the team must remain vigilant and not take their success for granted.
Antonelli himself has expressed a desire to remain focused on racing rather than the championship standings. He acknowledges the importance of maintaining his performance and maximizing opportunities on the track. With nine races left in the season, Antonelli is determined to continue delivering results while relying on his support network to keep him grounded. The upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix will be crucial as the season progresses.
Sky Sports F1Tue 15 Sep · 05:18 UTC