McLaren✕ ✕
+ Driver
+ Team
+ Grand prix
+ Circuit
+ Source
McLaren discusses driver impact under F1 2026 rules The 2026 Formula 1 regulations have sparked discussions about the evolving role of driver talent. Teams like McLaren highlight how these changes require drivers to adapt their styles, particularly at circuits with challenging layouts. PlanetF1 + 2 more Tue 11 Aug · 09:55 UTC via RacingNews365 Oscar Piastri exit from McLaren weighed up in key 'honeymoon' difference Oscar Piastri's performance at McLaren has been disappointing this season, especially compared to his teammate Lando Norris, who has consistently outpaced him. Both drivers are under long-term contracts, but there are indications that Piastri might seek opportunities elsewhere, as highlighted by former engineer Rob Smedley. Smedley pointed out a stark contrast in the team dynamics, noting that Norris expresses a strong commitment to McLaren, while Piastri does not share the same sentiment.
Despite the challenges, McLaren has seen success, including a recent victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix. The team has maintained the longest unchanged driver line-up in Formula 1, but the differing attitudes of their drivers could influence future decisions. As the season progresses, the focus will be on how Piastri's situation develops and whether he remains with McLaren or pursues other options. RacingNews365 Sat 8 Aug · 17:10 UTC via RacingNews365 McLaren hint at Ferrari advantage after surprise F1 appearance Ferrari recently held a filming day at the Madring, the new circuit set to host its first Spanish Grand Prix on September 13. During this session, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton completed the maximum allowed distance of 200 km, which has raised concerns from rival teams, particularly McLaren, about a potential advantage for Ferrari due to their early experience on the track. McLaren's team principal, Andrea Stella, expressed surprise at Ferrari's unannounced session and emphasized that while the conditions were not representative, some baseline data could still be beneficial for Ferrari.
The Madring circuit, which is about 5.4 km long and features around 20 corners, marks the return of Formula 1 racing to Madrid for the first time since 1981. Stella mentioned that although the filming day was primarily promotional and restricted in nature, it could still provide Ferrari with insights that might help them when the entire grid arrives for the race weekend. He acknowledged that while the track conditions were poor, any early data could help teams avoid starting from scratch. RacingNews365 Sat 8 Aug · 09:05 UTC Last race · Round 15
Azerbaijan Grand Prix