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via f1oversteer.comMichael Schumacher’s Ferrari boss is ‘sad’ when he sees the current state of the teamLuca di Montezemolo, the former president of Ferrari, has voiced his disappointment regarding the current state of the team, stating they are not competitive in Formula 1 anymore. He highlighted that Ferrari has not won a drivers' or constructors' title in 18 seasons and pointed out that no Ferrari driver has been in contention for the championship since Fernando Alonso in 2012.
Despite having a strong driver line-up with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, who have a combined total of 261 podiums, Ferrari has only managed to win one race each since the start of 2025. Di Montezemolo has been critical of team principal Fred Vasseur, suggesting that the team lacks strong leadership and needs to reflect on their performance to improve in the future.
Wed 23 Sep · 16:30 UTC
via CrashCharles Leclerc reveals the sport Ferrari has banned him from doing outside of F1Charles Leclerc disclosed that Ferrari has prohibited him from skydiving during the Formula 1 season, a decision made after the team expressed their discontent with his previous skydiving activities. He also mentioned that he avoids skiing while racing is ongoing, highlighting the team's concerns about safety during the season.
Leclerc's comments came during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where he responded to Isack Hadjar's situation regarding his own injury. Hadjar confirmed he faces no restrictions from Red Bull after recovering from a hand injury sustained while boxing. Leclerc's remarks reflect the balance drivers must maintain between their personal interests and the team's expectations regarding safety.
Wed 23 Sep · 16:02 UTC
via Motorsport.comJolyon Palmer suggests Oscar Piastri needs F1 reset in blunt Lando Norris comparisonJolyon Palmer has suggested that Oscar Piastri may need a winter reset following a challenging 2026 season with McLaren. Piastri's recent performance has been inconsistent, particularly in comparison to his teammate Lando Norris, who has been performing strongly, including securing pole position at the Spanish Grand Prix. Piastri currently sits seventh in the drivers' standings with 120 points, while Norris is fourth with 186 points.
Palmer pointed out that Piastri had a promising half-season in 2025 but has struggled to maintain that form in 2026. He noted that Piastri has been unable to match Norris's consistency and suggested that a reset could help Piastri regain his competitive edge. Palmer also referenced Piastri's previous success in lower racing categories, indicating that he has the potential to perform at a higher level.
Wed 23 Sep · 16:00 UTC
via CrashLewis Hamilton shares views on F1's Middle East racesLewis Hamilton has expressed his unexpected stance regarding Formula 1's decision to conclude the 2026 season in the Middle East. His comments come as Red Bull confirmed their driver line-up for 2027 during a media day ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.+ 1 moreWed 23 Sep · 15:03 UTC
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc tried to replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes before they signed Kimi AntonelliCharles Leclerc, currently a key driver for Ferrari, explored the possibility of replacing Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes for the 2025 season. His manager, Nicolas Todt, engaged in discussions with Mercedes regarding this potential move after they were informed of Hamilton's impending transfer to Ferrari.
Despite these talks, Mercedes opted to sign Andrea Kimi Antonelli, leading Leclerc to renew his contract with Ferrari in January 2024. This decision came before Hamilton's official announcement of his move to Ferrari, which was revealed in February 2024. As a result, Leclerc remains with Ferrari through the 2030 season.Wed 23 Sep · 15:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comJames Hinchcliffe explains why Ferrari is "happy" with Lewis Hamilton-Charles Leclerc rivalryJames Hinchcliffe has expressed that Ferrari is pleased to manage the growing rivalry between Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc. He believes that this competitive dynamic is what Ferrari anticipated when they signed Hamilton, especially after his struggles in the previous season. Hamilton has shown significant improvement in 2026, achieving a podium and a victory, which has elevated his position in the drivers' standings.
Hinchcliffe pointed out that having two strong drivers like Hamilton and Leclerc can enhance team performance, despite the potential for difficult decisions down the line. He emphasized that Ferrari's management, led by Fred Vasseur, is likely satisfied with the current situation, as it aligns with their expectations for Hamilton's role within the team.Wed 23 Sep · 14:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comLando Norris benefits from McLaren Hypercar testLando Norris believes that his recent test drive of McLaren's new Hypercar will enhance his performance in Formula 1. The reigning world champion drove the MCL-HY at the Algarve International Circuit, gaining valuable experience that he feels will translate to his F1 skills.+ 1 moreWed 23 Sep · 13:54 UTC
via Sky Sports F1Hamilton sets sights on Russell amid defence of Ferrari's seasonLewis Hamilton expressed optimism about Ferrari's season, stating that finishing in the top three of the Drivers' Championship would be a significant achievement despite recent challenges. He urged critics to focus on the positives, highlighting the team's progress compared to last year.
Hamilton, who has not secured a podium since the British Grand Prix, acknowledged the difficulties faced this season, including a recent retirement in Madrid. He remains focused on competing with George Russell for second place in the standings and believes that Ferrari can improve their performance moving forward.
Wed 23 Sep · 13:49 UTC
via Formula1.comPiastri insists he’s ‘making progress’ despite setbacksOscar Piastri has expressed optimism about his progress with McLaren despite facing challenges in the 2026 season. He acknowledged the team's support and their ongoing efforts to improve performance, stating that they are not standing still in their development. Piastri noted that while he has struggled to match his teammate Lando Norris, who has had recent success, he feels they are exploring different solutions to enhance his performance.
Piastri highlighted the difficulties posed by the new generation of cars, which do not align with his previous racing style. He emphasized the need for constant adaptation and the importance of having a well-thought-out approach to improvements. As he prepares for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Piastri reflected on his mixed experiences at the track, hoping for a better outcome this year compared to the previous season.
Wed 23 Sep · 13:31 UTC
via gpfans.comAston Martin 'approach made' for shock Charles Leclerc swoop from FerrariAston Martin reportedly made an approach to sign Charles Leclerc from Ferrari, but the 28-year-old declined the offer in favour of a new contract with Ferrari that will keep him with the team until at least 2030. This approach came during a tumultuous time for Aston Martin, which had recently changed team principals, although it remains unclear which of their current drivers would have been replaced.
Leclerc's manager, Nicolas Todt, has been active in exploring opportunities for Leclerc, including discussions with Mercedes and McLaren. Despite these talks, Leclerc has reaffirmed his commitment to Ferrari, expressing confidence in the team's direction and leadership under Fred Vasseur. He remains focused on his goal of winning a world championship with Ferrari.
Wed 23 Sep · 11:29 UTC
via grandprix.comRed Bull extends Isack Hadjar's contract to 2027Red Bull Racing has confirmed that Isack Hadjar will remain with the team until 2027. Team boss Laurent Mekies has outlined expectations for Hadjar to continue his development as he prepares to return from injury.
via grandprix.comLeclerc considers driver management after racingCharles Leclerc has expressed interest in a future role guiding young drivers alongside his manager, Nicolas Todt. While he envisions this possibility after his racing career, he emphasises that his current priority is competing for Ferrari and pursuing a Formula 1 title.
In a recent interview, Leclerc confirmed that he has already spoken with Todt about the potential of working together in driver management. However, he remains fully committed to his racing duties, with the next race in Baku on the horizon, indicating that mentoring young racers will have to wait until he concludes his own racing ambitions.
via AutosportWhat would you like to ask Emerson Fittipaldi?Emerson Fittipaldi, the two-time Formula 1 world champion, will be available to answer questions from Autosport readers at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on 24 September. His illustrious career includes championships with Lotus and McLaren, as well as an IndyCar title in 1989.
Fittipaldi is also known for racing for his own team in Formula 1 and currently supports his son, who competes in Formula 2 with AIX Racing. Readers are encouraged to submit their questions ahead of the event.
Wed 23 Sep · 09:26 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLaurent Mekies says Christian Horner made one decision no-one else 'in the world' would have takenLaurent Mekies has commended Christian Horner for his decision to have Red Bull develop their own powertrains starting in 2021, a move he believes no other company would have undertaken. Despite not winning a race in 2026, Mekies noted that Red Bull has successfully narrowed the gap to competitors like Mercedes.
Mekies also highlighted that Red Bull's in-house engine development has shown promising results, although he disagrees with some assessments that label their engine as the best. He emphasized the importance of accurate evaluations for the future of both Red Bull and the sport, indicating ongoing discussions with the FIA regarding engine performance assessments.Wed 23 Sep · 09:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Isack Hadjar voices Red Bull 'privilege' after renewed F1 trustIsack Hadjar has expressed a sense of privilege after signing an extension with Red Bull Racing for the 2027 Formula 1 season. The French driver joined the team in 2025 and has made a strong impression, achieving a podium finish at the Monaco Grand Prix and consistently finishing in the top six throughout the season.
Despite Red Bull's struggles this year, Hadjar remains motivated to help the team return to the top. He acknowledged the talent within the team and the support he has received, stating his commitment to improving and justifying the faith placed in him by Red Bull.
Wed 23 Sep · 08:10 UTC
via RacingNews365Ferrari warned against decision that will 'alienate' driversFerrari has been cautioned about the potential consequences of introducing team orders, which could alienate one of their drivers. This concern arose following the Italian Grand Prix, where Lewis Hamilton was affected by an incident involving Charles Leclerc, leading him to question Ferrari's approach to driver engagement.
Former driver Jolyon Palmer highlighted that if Ferrari aims to compete for the championship, they must carefully manage team dynamics. He noted that while Hamilton could have gained more points under optimal conditions, the current situation puts Ferrari in a difficult position regarding team orders, as they risk upsetting either Hamilton or Leclerc.Wed 23 Sep · 07:15 UTC
via gpfans.comMcLaren F1 launches brand new logoMcLaren has introduced a new logo that will be used across its racing teams, including Formula 1, the World Endurance Championship, and Indy Car. The updated design includes a line under the 'c' in McLaren, inspired by a sign from Bruce McLaren's original workshop in Auckland, New Zealand.
In a statement, McLaren Racing's chief marketing officer Lou McEwen highlighted the logo's connection to the team's history and future aspirations. Chief creative officer David Woodhouse emphasised that the new visual identity captures McLaren's spirit of innovation and marks the beginning of a new chapter for the company.Wed 23 Sep · 07:14 UTC
via RacingNews365Fred Vasseur hits back at F1 rival Toto Wolff over Ferrari budget claimFred Vasseur, Ferrari's team principal, has responded to Toto Wolff's remarks regarding the financial capabilities of Ferrari and McLaren to continue car development throughout the season. Wolff expressed concerns about the budget constraints faced by teams under the cost cap, which has been raised to $215 million this year due to significant regulatory changes.
Vasseur firmly rejected Wolff's insinuations, asserting that Ferrari has sufficient budgetary leeway to maintain its development pace until the final race of the season. He emphasized his dissatisfaction with Wolff's comments, stating that he does not appreciate others discussing Ferrari's budget without understanding the situation.Wed 23 Sep · 06:20 UTC
via newsonf1.comWolff absent as Antonelli enters gruelling title runToto Wolff will not attend the upcoming race in Baku as the Formula 1 championship enters a challenging phase, with a tight schedule ahead. Bradley Lord will take over Wolff's trackside duties during this period. Meanwhile, Isack Hadjar is set to return to the Red Bull team after recovering from a wrist injury, while Liam Lawson will revert to Racing Bulls after a successful stint alongside Max Verstappen.
Kimi Antonelli is currently leading the championship with an 81-point advantage and is focused on maintaining his lead through the demanding upcoming races. He expressed confidence in his physical readiness for the challenges ahead. Despite Mercedes not having made significant upgrades since May, further developments are anticipated in the coming races, and Antonelli's performance is expected to remain strong as he aims for his first title.
via Sky Sports F1Ferrari set Baku target as Rosberg pinpoints team's repeat flawFerrari's recent performance has been disappointing, with only one podium finish in the last five races, which has hindered their championship aspirations. Team principal Frederic Vasseur highlighted the importance of executing race weekends effectively, especially ahead of the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where confidence and precision are crucial due to the challenging street circuit.
Nico Rosberg pointed out that Ferrari's pace is competitive, but their execution during races has consistently let them down. He noted that the team's strategy and communication issues remain significant weaknesses, which have prevented them from capitalising on their potential. With the Constructors' Championship slipping further away, Ferrari faces pressure to improve their performance in the remaining races.Wed 23 Sep · 05:08 UTCPage 20 of 82