News461 stories
RSS ↗
via Motorsport.comGuenther Steiner praises Red Bull after major Mercedes F1 hireGuenther Steiner has expressed his support for Red Bull Racing's recent appointment of Gwen Lagrue as the head of its junior driver program, set to begin in 2027. Lagrue, who previously spent over ten years at Mercedes, is recognized for his talent development skills, having played a key role in identifying prominent drivers such as George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. Steiner highlighted the significance of this hire for Red Bull's future, especially following the departure of longtime motorsport adviser Helmut Marko at the end of the 2025 season.
Steiner noted that Lagrue's extensive experience in the field positions him well to continue the success of Red Bull's junior program, which has produced several notable drivers, including four-time world champion Max Verstappen. The move is seen as a strategic step to maintain the program's strength and ensure a steady pipeline of talent for the team.
Mon 3 Aug · 10:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Red Bull reveal unusual early issue with RB22Red Bull's RB22 has struggled with a significant mechanical issue at the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season, particularly affecting the steering system. Both drivers, Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar, expressed their frustrations with the car's handling, with Verstappen labeling it 'completely undrivable' early in the season. The team identified the problem as stemming from the steering rack and column, which were subsequently replaced to improve driver feedback and confidence in the car's performance.
Despite these adjustments and a major upgrade in Miami aimed at enhancing the car's aerodynamics and reducing weight, the RB22 continues to show inconsistent performance on the track. While Verstappen has managed to secure four podium finishes in recent races, both drivers still struggle to achieve reliable results, leading to ongoing criticism of the car's capabilities. Red Bull's technical director, Pierre Waché, acknowledged the inherent limitations of the car while emphasizing the team's efforts to address these challenges.
Mon 3 Aug · 04:30 UTC
via Motorsport.comRachel Brookes predicts major F1 driver changes for 2027Rachel Brookes has forecasted significant changes in the Formula 1 driver lineup for the 2027 season, highlighting potential moves for several prominent drivers. She predicts that Max Verstappen will leave Red Bull to join Mercedes, with Oscar Piastri stepping into his place. Other notable changes include Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso potentially moving to Audi and Alpine, respectively, while McLaren could field an all-British lineup featuring Lando Norris and George Russell.
Brookes emphasizes Verstappen's desire to compete for victories again, suggesting that he is dissatisfied with his current position at Red Bull. The speculation around these driver movements is fueled by Verstappen's exit clause and the ongoing performance issues faced by Sainz at Williams. The predictions reflect a broader trend of anticipated reshuffling in the F1 grid as teams prepare for the future.Sun 2 Aug · 10:15 UTC
via AutosportMax Verstappen Reflects on F1 Season Ahead of Summer BreakMax Verstappen expressed contentment with his position in Formula 1 as the summer break approaches. He emphasized his passion for racing while discussing his relationship with Red Bull and the current regulations.
+ 1 moreSun 2 Aug · 08:01 UTC
via CrashRed Bull set to ‘make an early call’ on 2026 F1 development pushRed Bull Racing is planning to adjust its development strategy for the 2026 Formula 1 season, particularly after the summer break. Team principal Laurent Mekies indicated that the team will slow down its development pace and make a strategic decision regarding the balance between the current season and the next. This comes as Red Bull, along with McLaren and Ferrari, has significantly closed the performance gap to Mercedes, which had initially been leading comfortably in the season's early stages.
In the latest race, Max Verstappen secured a second-place finish, matching his previous result from the Austrian Grand Prix. Mekies noted that Red Bull has introduced a considerable number of upgrades to their car throughout the season, but acknowledged that maintaining this development rhythm may not be feasible moving forward. The team is focused on closing the remaining performance gap and will make decisions on their future development direction sooner than they did in the previous year.
Sun 2 Aug · 08:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comRacing Bulls boss’ advice to his F1 drivers: Learn from Max Verstappen’s radioAlan Permane, the team principal of Racing Bulls, has encouraged his drivers Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad to pay attention to Max Verstappen's communication style over team radio. With Lawson and Lindblad being the least experienced drivers on the 2026 grid, Permane believes that Verstappen serves as an exemplary model for them to follow in terms of calmness and effective feedback during races.
Despite their inexperience, Lawson and Lindblad have shown competitive performance, with Lawson having a slight edge in qualifying and overall points. Permane noted that their close performance will require careful management throughout the season, as they continue to learn and adapt in Formula 1.Sat 1 Aug · 14:03 UTC
via CrashIsack Hadjar Comments on Max Verstappen's Performance ChallengesIsack Hadjar acknowledges Max Verstappen's exceptional skills in Formula 1, noting a specific area where Verstappen excels. Despite Verstappen's struggles with the 2026 Red Bull car, Hadjar finds reassurance in the situation.+ 1 moreSat 1 Aug · 13:00 UTC
via Crash‘No regrets’ - Arvid Lindblad on Racing Bulls failed ‘hero’ gambleLindblad's performance highlighted the challenges of overtaking at the Hungaroring, and he felt that the team's strategy was solid given the circumstances. The race saw Racing Bulls continue their points-scoring form, although Lindblad wished he could have achieved a better result. Overall, the team aimed to maximize their potential, and Lindblad supported their strategic choices.Sat 1 Aug · 10:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comMax Verstappen's Red Bull radio complaints prompt McLaren move question from David CroftMax Verstappen's radio messages during the Hungarian Grand Prix raised eyebrows, leading Sky Sports commentator David Croft to speculate about potential motives behind his frustrations. Croft suggested that these complaints might be a strategic move to facilitate a departure from Red Bull, possibly to join McLaren, as the team has faced challenges with their car's performance this season.
The context of these comments comes amid a strong performance from Mercedes, who have dominated the early part of the 2026 season. Verstappen's remarks about the difficulties of driving the Red Bull when it is not in optimal condition have fueled discussions about his satisfaction with the team and the car's reliability.Sat 1 Aug · 08:00 UTC
via Crash‘Other motives’ theory offered for Max Verstappen F1 Red Bull car gripesMax Verstappen expressed dissatisfaction with his Red Bull car's performance during the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend, despite achieving a second-place finish. His complaints included remarks about the car's aerodynamic issues and degradation, leading to speculation about potential motives behind his statements, particularly regarding a possible interest in McLaren.
David Croft, a commentator, suggested that Verstappen's grievances might be a strategic move, as he has an exit clause in his contract with Red Bull that allows him to leave at the end of the year. Red Bull has also made a lucrative contract extension offer to keep him with the team until 2029.Fri 31 Jul · 15:17 UTC
via Motorsport.comSergio Perez reveals how Max Verstappen's "pure" leadership made him a faster F1 driverSergio Perez has credited Max Verstappen's leadership style for enhancing his performance as a Formula 1 driver during their four years together at Red Bull Racing. In a recent podcast, Perez highlighted how Verstappen's ability to guide car development and inspire the team contributed to his own growth as a competitor, despite the challenges of being in Verstappen's shadow.
After his tenure at Red Bull, where he faced intense competition, Perez transitioned to the newly formed Cadillac F1 team. He expressed his desire to leverage the lessons learned from Verstappen to improve his performance in the upcoming seasons.Fri 31 Jul · 13:27 UTC
via Motorsport.comBehind the scenes of Arvid Lindblad's special first F1 British Grand PrixArvid Lindblad, a rookie driver for Racing Bulls, experienced an emotional first home Formula 1 weekend at Silverstone, where he currently ranks 11th in the championship. His season has been marked by consistent performances, including scoring points in six races and achieving seventh-place finishes in both the Monaco and British Grands Prix.
The behind-the-scenes video highlights Lindblad's increased media responsibilities leading up to the race, including interviews and social media content creation. He humorously mentioned the need to obtain his driving license due to the frequent reliance on Ubers and his mother for transportation. The video also showcases various activities during the race weekend, including fan interactions and post-race celebrations.Fri 31 Jul · 12:35 UTC
via Crash'He wants to be winning' - Rachel Brookes stokes Max Verstappen Red Bull exit flamesMax Verstappen's future with Red Bull Racing has become a hot topic, particularly as the team has seen a significant departure of key personnel. Former Sky Sports presenter Rachel Brookes suggested that Verstappen is considering leaving the team, especially after a secret meeting with McLaren, although both McLaren and Mercedes have dismissed immediate moves for him. The ongoing struggles of Red Bull in the current regulations have intensified these speculations about Verstappen's commitment to the team.
Despite being offered a lucrative contract extension that could keep him at Red Bull until 2029, Brookes emphasized that Verstappen's desire to win races again is paramount. He has expressed frustration with the team's performance and has ruled out taking a break from racing, indicating that if he leaves, he would not return. The situation remains fluid as Verstappen weighs his options amid the team's challenges and personnel changes.Wed 29 Jul · 12:44 UTC
via CrashMax Verstappen Expected to Announce Red Bull Contract ExtensionMax Verstappen is anticipated to confirm his contract extension with Red Bull during the upcoming Zandvoort race weekend. Reports suggest that the deal could keep him with the team until 2028.+ 1 moreTue 28 Jul · 15:36 UTC
via grandprix.comRed Bull already weighing early switch to 2027 carRed Bull Racing is contemplating an early transition to its 2027 car due to ongoing performance issues with the current model, which Max Verstappen has openly criticized. Despite his ability to secure podium finishes, Verstappen's dissatisfaction with the car's competitiveness has led to discussions within the team about balancing development efforts between the current season and the next. Team principal Laurent Mekies indicated that the team may need to shift focus sooner than in previous years, especially given the challenges posed by the car's narrow operating window and the pressure to improve performance.
The team has implemented numerous upgrades in an attempt to enhance the car's performance, but Mekies admitted that maintaining the current development pace may not be sustainable. Verstappen's unique sensitivity to the car's behavior has been highlighted as a significant asset, although he remains focused on winning rather than merely finishing on the podium. Teammate Isack Hadjar also expressed frustration with the car's handling and the strategic decisions made during races, indicating a broader concern within the team about their competitive standing.
via AutosportIs McLaren now a legitimate threat to Mercedes and Ferrari in F1 2026?McLaren achieved its first victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season at the Hungarian Grand Prix, with Lando Norris taking pole position and winning the race. The team introduced a significant floor upgrade that proved effective on the high-downforce circuit, allowing them to outperform their competitors, including Ferrari and Mercedes, who faced various challenges during the weekend. Ferrari's performance was marred by execution errors, while Mercedes struggled with setup issues and missed practice time, impacting their race strategy.
The article highlights the ongoing development war in Formula 1, with teams continuously bringing upgrades to improve their performance. While McLaren's win raises questions about their competitiveness against established teams like Mercedes and Ferrari, it also emphasizes the importance of track-specific strengths and execution in determining race outcomes. As teams prepare for upcoming races, including significant upgrades planned for Zandvoort and Monza, the season remains unpredictable and competitive.Tue 28 Jul · 08:24 UTC
via theguardian.comF1 summer report card: from top of the class Mercedes to the team that must do betterAs the Formula 1 season reaches its mid-point, Mercedes has established itself as the dominant team, securing eight victories and leading the constructors' championship by a significant margin. Kimi Antonelli, a promising young driver, has excelled, winning five consecutive races and holding a substantial lead in the drivers' standings. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton has shown a resurgence, claiming his first win in nearly two years at the Spanish Grand Prix, highlighting his competitive spirit at 41 years old.
In contrast, Aston Martin has faced numerous challenges, including a lack of performance and multiple retirements, leading to a disappointing season thus far. Despite a recent overhaul of their car, the team is still striving for improvements, with hopes of achieving better results in the second half of the season. The dynamics among the teams and drivers suggest an intriguing battle as the season progresses.
Tue 28 Jul · 07:00 UTC
via grandprix.comHadjar staying, Verstappen offered richer dealRed Bull Racing has proposed a more lucrative contract to Max Verstappen, aiming to extend his tenure until after the 2029 season and eliminate his release clause. Verstappen's current salary of around 65 million euros per year is expected to increase, and both parties are engaged in ongoing discussions about the future of their collaboration. Meanwhile, Isack Hadjar is likely to continue as Verstappen's teammate after a solid performance at the Hungarian GP, where he finished P6.
Toto Wolff of Mercedes indicated that there will be no immediate changes to their driver lineup, citing the need for car stability rather than driver changes. He acknowledged the potential appeal of a Verstappen-Antonelli pairing but emphasized satisfaction with the current dynamic between their drivers. Mekies reiterated that the team's focus remains on optimizing the car for Verstappen to ensure competitive performance.
via AutosportRed Bull Appoints Gwen Lagrue as Junior Driver ChiefGwen Lagrue will join Red Bull Racing as the junior driver chief starting in 2027. His appointment follows his departure from Mercedes, where he led their junior programme.+ 1 moreMon 27 Jul · 12:29 UTC
via theguardian.comMcLaren’s team principal hails ‘great trajectory’ of Lando Norris after winLando Norris achieved a significant victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix, marking McLaren's first win of the season. His performance showcased not only his driving skills but also a notable improvement in his psychological approach, as highlighted by team principal Andrea Stella. Norris's ability to remain composed after initially dropping a position to teammate Oscar Piastri was crucial in regaining the lead and securing the win against strong competitors like Max Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli.
Meanwhile, George Russell faced challenges during the race, finishing seventh after a slow start due to technical issues. His frustrations with the season's repeated problems were evident, as he expressed a sense of resignation regarding his performance. Despite these setbacks, the focus remained on Norris's development and the promising trajectory of his career within the team.Mon 27 Jul · 10:30 UTCPage 22 of 24