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via grandprix.comMax Verstappen Comments on Red Bull's Engine Compliance IssuesMax Verstappen has expressed concerns regarding the compliance of the Red Bull car following a challenging weekend at Monza. He also mentioned ongoing discussions between Red Bull and the FIA about the team's Ford-backed engine.
via PlanetF1FIA findings under scrutiny as Helmut Marko weighs in on Red BullHelmut Marko has stepped down from his role at Red Bull after two decades, expressing strong disagreement with the FIA's Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) criteria. He argues that despite Red Bull's internal combustion engine being rated the best, it does not represent the overall best power unit in Formula 1, as the ADUO system focuses too narrowly on engine performance alone. Red Bull has yet to secure a race win this season and is currently fourth in the constructors' standings, trailing significantly behind Mercedes.
The FIA's single-seater director, Nikolas Tombazis, has acknowledged that the ADUO system may require improvements, admitting that while the system has proven accurate, it has not satisfied all stakeholders. Marko's criticisms highlight a broader concern regarding the maturity of the current regulations, suggesting that a reevaluation is necessary to better reflect the complexities of modern power units, which include not just the combustion engine but also electric components and software.
Fri 4 Sep · 06:54 UTC
via Formula1.comVerstappen sets out target for MonzaMax Verstappen is approaching the Italian Grand Prix with a realistic mindset following a disappointing exit at Zandvoort, where he crashed on the first lap. He will miss Free Practice 1, allowing Ayumu Iwasa to drive, and will return for Free Practice 2, aiming to assess the car's performance at Monza, a track where he previously won.
Despite his past success at Monza, Verstappen is tempering expectations, acknowledging that the team has been struggling recently. He remains optimistic about the experience of racing in front of fans at his home Grand Prix, reflecting on the positives from his previous outings despite the challenges faced in the last race.
Thu 3 Sep · 18:25 UTC
via gpfans.comAston Martin F1 chief announces more upgrades to come: 'This will be the final version of the car'Aston Martin's F1 team is set to introduce more upgrades to their AMR26 car, with the next significant updates scheduled for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. After a challenging start to the season, the team saw improvements following major upgrades at the Hungarian Grand Prix and additional aerodynamic changes at Zandvoort, which helped Fernando Alonso score points for the first time this season. Currently, Aston Martin sits in 10th place with three points, but they are targeting a higher position as they continue to develop their car.
Enrico Cardile, the team's chief technical officer, confirmed that the upcoming upgrades will be the final planned aerodynamic developments for the AMR26. The team is also focused on a weight-saving program that aims to enhance performance by reaching the weight limit. Despite some ongoing issues with Honda's power unit, the team is optimistic about their progress and the potential for further improvements in upcoming races.
Thu 3 Sep · 17:45 UTC
via Motorsport.comMax Verstappen reveals Red Bull response to playful "shunt" request in 100-driver karting challengeMax Verstappen recently took part in a unique karting challenge where he raced against 100 other drivers on a specially designed track at Silverstone. During a live stream, he humorously inquired with Red Bull about the possibility of 'shunting' his competitors, to which the team advised against it, although they acknowledged the playful nature of the request.
The event, titled 'Max vs 100' and hosted by comedian Mo Gilligan, will showcase Verstappen's karting skills and will be available for streaming on Disney+ on September 16. The bespoke track, designed by a former karting world champion, aims to provide an unforgettable experience as Verstappen navigates through heavy traffic while racing.
Thu 3 Sep · 17:41 UTC
via f1oversteer.com‘Pessimistic’ Fernando Alonso now disagrees with Aston Martin about the AMR26Fernando Alonso has expressed concerns about the performance of the Aston Martin AMR26 ahead of the Italian Grand Prix, predicting it will be one of the team's most challenging races of the season. Despite securing a P9 finish at the Dutch Grand Prix, Alonso believes the chassis still requires significant improvements, particularly in handling and overall performance, even after Honda's recent engine upgrade.
Aston Martin's management is optimistic, claiming they now have the seventh-best chassis in the 2026 F1 grid and are focused on completing a weight-saving program by the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. However, Alonso remains cautious, suggesting that the upcoming race at Monza may expose the car's weaknesses, especially on high-speed straights.
Thu 3 Sep · 15:00 UTC
via RaceFansFernando Alonso to wear Campos tribute helmet at MonzaFernando Alonso will pay tribute to his late mentor, Adrián Campos, by wearing a special helmet design during the Italian Grand Prix at Monza. The tribute aims to honor Campos, who was Alonso's first manager.
+ 1 moreThu 3 Sep · 14:59 UTC
via Crash"More like MotoGP" - Why the Italian GP is tipped to break Monza overtaking recordThe Aston Martin team anticipates that the upcoming Italian Grand Prix at Monza will feature a racing style more akin to MotoGP, primarily due to the high-speed layout and the energy management challenges posed by the 2026 power units. Mike Krack, the chief of Aston Martin, expressed that this race could lead to unprecedented levels of overtaking, as drivers will likely rely heavily on slipstreaming during both qualifying and the race itself. He emphasized the importance of managing energy effectively to maximize performance on the track.
Krack also noted that the recent races have varied in their energy management demands, with the Belgian Grand Prix receiving criticism for its impact on car behavior. He is hopeful that the Monza race will not repeat the issues seen in 2019 and expects a dynamic race with significant passing opportunities. Overall, the Italian GP is poised to break Monza's overtaking record, making it a highly anticipated event in the 2026 Formula 1 calendar.
Thu 3 Sep · 14:47 UTC
via the-race.comWhat Aston Martin revealed about 2026 (and 2027) upgrade planAston Martin has concluded its major upgrades for the 2026 Formula 1 season, with the final developments introduced at the Dutch Grand Prix. The team has implemented a significant 16-part upgrade package, including a new chassis and front wing, and plans to complete its weight-saving program by the upcoming Azerbaijan GP. Aston Martin's chief technical officer confirmed that there will be no carryover of parts to the 2027 model, emphasizing a fresh start for the new season while still utilizing insights gained from the current car's performance.
Honda has also made strides with its engine upgrades, enhancing both performance and driveability, although no major updates are anticipated before the 2027 season. Alonso remains optimistic about Honda's capabilities to regain competitive form, despite current challenges in fully utilizing the engine's potential. The focus for both Aston Martin and Honda will be on refining their approaches as they prepare for the next season, aiming to build on the lessons learned in 2026.
Thu 3 Sep · 14:24 UTC
via thejudge13.comHonda makes crucial engine fix for Aston Martin ahead of MonzaHonda has made a crucial engine-control update for Aston Martin in preparation for the Italian Grand Prix after encountering drivability issues with their latest power unit at Zandvoort. While the upgrade provided a performance boost, it also altered the engine's behavior more than anticipated, prompting Honda to develop new control systems to address these challenges ahead of the high-speed Monza circuit.
The team is focused on ensuring that the additional performance can be harnessed effectively without compromising reliability. Honda's engineers are utilizing driver feedback and data from previous races to refine the engine's settings. As the Italian Grand Prix approaches, both Honda and Aston Martin are keen to see if these adjustments will lead to a successful outcome on the track.
Thu 3 Sep · 12:28 UTC
via CrashAston Martin's Alonso and Cardile back Honda partnershipAston Martin's technical chief Enrico Cardile and driver Fernando Alonso have expressed unwavering support for their partnership with Honda despite recent performance challenges. Both emphasized their belief in Honda's potential to improve and succeed in Formula 1.+ 4 moreThu 3 Sep · 11:59 UTC
via Motorsport.comDavid Coulthard points to Aston Martin momentum shift after hitting "rock bottom"David Coulthard has expressed that Aston Martin has reached a low point in their performance during the 2026 Formula 1 season but is beginning to recover. The team, which currently ranks 10th in the constructors' standings with only three points from Fernando Alonso, has faced significant challenges, including car and power unit issues. They have made changes, such as introducing a B-spec car and engine upgrades, in hopes of improving their performance.
Coulthard draws parallels between Aston Martin's struggles and McLaren's past difficulties, suggesting that a turnaround is possible. Naomi Schiff, a co-host on the Up To Speed podcast, emphasized the importance of learning and evolution for the team. Despite a tough start, there are signs of progress, and Alonso's recent performance indicates potential for improvement as they head into future races.Thu 3 Sep · 11:44 UTC
via RaceFansAston Martin ends major upgrades for 2026 carAston Martin has announced the cessation of its significant upgrade program for the 2026 Formula 1 season. The team will concentrate on achieving weight reduction, aiming to approach the weight limit by the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix.+ 1 moreThu 3 Sep · 11:12 UTC
via PlanetF1Honda acknowledges concerns over engine upgradeHonda has introduced its first power unit update of the Formula 1 season, but concerns have been raised by drivers Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll regarding its performance. Chief engineer Shintaro Orihara has acknowledged that there are still areas needing improvement.+ 1 moreThu 3 Sep · 10:28 UTC
via gpfans.comOscar Piastri to Red Bull is not dead and neither is Max Verstappen dramaThe article discusses the ongoing speculation surrounding Oscar Piastri's future in Formula 1, particularly regarding a potential move to Red Bull. Despite recent rumors linking him to a swap with Max Verstappen, who has signed a lucrative contract extension with Red Bull, Piastri remains a McLaren driver for now. However, the dynamics could change if Verstappen's performance declines, as his new contract may contain similar exit clauses as his previous one.
Furthermore, the article highlights that while the immediate drama has subsided, the possibility of Piastri being replaced by Verstappen in the future remains a significant storyline. With Lando Norris securing his position at McLaren, Piastri's future could be uncertain if Red Bull does not perform well in the coming seasons.Thu 3 Sep · 08:45 UTC
via f1oversteer.comWhat Adrian Newey immediately told Honda about their 2026 engine plans when he joined Aston MartinAdrian Newey's arrival at Aston Martin led to significant changes in their car design, which impacted their collaboration with Honda. The team faced challenges in reliability and performance, particularly evident during the Barcelona Shakedown and the Dutch Grand Prix, where they experienced a double Q1 exit despite Alonso scoring points. Honda was forced to redesign a substantial portion of their power unit to accommodate Newey's specifications, which has raised concerns about the effectiveness of their partnership.
As Aston Martin continues to struggle, there are indications that they may seek alternative engine suppliers, including Mercedes and Red Bull Powertrains. The current situation has led to frustrations within the team, with criticisms directed at Honda for their perceived inability to push back against Newey's demands. The dynamics of this partnership are under scrutiny, as both parties navigate the challenges of the upcoming 2026 regulations.Thu 3 Sep · 06:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Max Verstappen misses first practice at MonzaRed Bull Racing encountered difficulties during the opening day of practice at the Italian Grand Prix. Max Verstappen, who missed the first practice session, acknowledged that the team is struggling to achieve the right balance with their car.+ 2 moreThu 3 Sep · 05:50 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen 'calms whole system down' as Racing Bulls look to crucial decisionMax Verstappen's recent contract extension with Red Bull has been acknowledged by Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer as a stabilizing factor in the F1 driver market. This development allows Racing Bulls to concentrate on their existing drivers and potential candidates without the uncertainty of Verstappen's future affecting their decisions. The team is particularly monitoring F2 championship leader Nikola Tsolov, who will soon test F1 machinery at Imola.
Bayer reiterated that the team is not in a hurry to finalize driver selections, as both Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad are performing admirably. The team is confident in their junior program and will take their time to ensure the best decision is made regarding driver placements, with team principal Alan Permane leading this process.
Thu 3 Sep · 04:30 UTC
via newsonf1.comSchumacher says F1 too easy for ageing starsSep.3 (GMM) Ralf Schumacher has criticised the current Formula 1 rules for making it easier for older drivers to prolong their careers, as Lewis Hamilton is linked with a Ferrari extension into 2028. Hamilton would be 43 during that season, while Fernando Alonso is already 45 and could yet continue beyond his current Aston Martin…
via grandprix.comHadjar misses Monza as Tsunoda gets another raceIsack Hadjar is unable to participate in the Italian Grand Prix as he recovers from a wrist injury, which has led to a series of driver substitutions. Liam Lawson will remain in the Red Bull car for another race after finishing seventh in his debut, while Yuki Tsunoda returns to Racing Bulls for a second weekend, having narrowly missed scoring points at Zandvoort. Ayumu Iwasa will also get a chance to drive during the practice session before Verstappen returns to the car.
Red Bull is cautious about Hadjar's return, emphasizing the importance of his recovery. Lawson and Tsunoda are the immediate beneficiaries of this situation, with Lawson gaining valuable experience and Tsunoda seeking to demonstrate his capabilities as he aims for a full-time seat in the future. The team has not set a timeline for Hadjar's comeback, prioritizing his health over rushing his return.Page 17 of 42
