McLarenRB F1 TeamRed Bull 
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.grandprix.comFri 4 Sep · 09:50 UTC
via CrashMcLaren to finally debut its newly-named rotating F1 rear wing at Italian GPMcLaren has officially introduced its H-Wing, a rotating rear wing, at the Monza Grand Prix, following trials at previous races. This innovation is part of McLaren's strategy to enhance performance, particularly aimed at reducing drag on the long straights of the Monza circuit. The H-Wing's name pays homage to the branding of their partner, Etihad Airways, similar to how their previous F-duct was named.
The H-Wing follows the earlier introduction of similar devices by Ferrari and Red Bull, with McLaren having evaluated the wing during practice in Hungary. Alongside the H-Wing, McLaren is also implementing updates to its car's floor. Other teams, including Mercedes and Audi, have made varying degrees of updates, with Mercedes focusing solely on drag reduction and Audi opting out of any updates for this race.
CrashFri 4 Sep · 09:05 UTC
via PlanetF122 videosFerrari introduces engine upgrades at MonzaFerrari has brought four new components and a second ADUO power unit upgrade to the Monza circuit. Early telemetry indicates improved performance, although the team still trails Mercedes in straight-line speed.
PlanetF1+ 2 moreFri 4 Sep · 08:46 UTC
via f1oversteer.comOscar Piastri explains 2026 performance strugglesOscar Piastri has acknowledged ongoing performance struggles during the 2026 season as he prepares for the Italian Grand Prix. He has shared insights into his experiences in the cockpit and how teammate Lando Norris' recent success has highlighted areas for improvement.
f1oversteer.com+ 2 moreFri 4 Sep · 07:00 UTC
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.PlanetF1Fri 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.
Formula1.comThu 3 Sep · 18:25 UTC
via Formula1.comWhy Tsunoda feels ‘like a rookie’ for Racing Bulls returnYuki Tsunoda is preparing for his second race with Racing Bulls at the Italian Grand Prix, feeling like a rookie due to the complexities of energy management at Monza. After a last-minute call to race at the Dutch Grand Prix, where he finished P11, he has been training in the simulator to better understand the demands of the track and the car's energy deployment strategies.
Despite feeling more prepared than before, Tsunoda acknowledges the challenges he faces, especially with the strategic aspects of racing at Monza. He aims to improve on his past performances at the track, where he has experienced multiple DNFs, and hopes to achieve a place in Q3 and score points during the race.Formula1.comThu 3 Sep · 18:25 UTC
via PlanetF1Liam Lawson facing nervous F1 2027 wait as Racing Bulls responds to Verstappen decisionMax Verstappen's recent contract extension with Red Bull until 2030 has brought stability to the team, but uncertainty remains regarding Liam Lawson's future with Racing Bulls. The team has not rushed to finalize its driver lineup for F1 2027, as both Lawson and rookie Arvid Lindblad have been performing well this season, contributing to the team's fifth place in the constructors' championship.
While Lawson's position appears secure for now, he faces competition from junior driver Nikola Tsolov, who is excelling in Formula 2. Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer has indicated that the team is pleased with its current drivers, but decisions regarding the lineup will ultimately be made by team principal Alan Permane, who is focused on maintaining a calm environment as they approach the next season.PlanetF1Thu 3 Sep · 18:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comYuki Tsunoda claims replacing Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls has ‘suspended’ talks over his futureYuki Tsunoda says he has had “several” calls from interested teams after his cameo in place of Liam Lawson for Racing Bulls, yet has paused ...f1oversteer.comThu 3 Sep · 18:00 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.
Motorsport.comThu 3 Sep · 17:41 UTC
via RacingNews365Lando Norris raises McLaren concern as biggest weakness set for ultimate exposureLando Norris is preparing for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, where he hopes to achieve a third consecutive victory. However, he has raised concerns about McLaren's performance, particularly in chicanes and low-speed corners, which have been a weakness since the introduction of new power-unit regulations. Despite recent successes, Norris acknowledges that Monza may not be as favorable for McLaren due to the circuit's characteristics.
Norris indicated that the team is aware of their limitations and is actively working on solutions. He noted that while they might consider compromising their top speed to improve performance in slow-speed corners, such adjustments are complex and do not guarantee immediate results. The team is focused on addressing these issues as they prepare for the race.
RacingNews365Thu 3 Sep · 16:45 UTC
via PlanetF1Stella makes Italian GP admission after Norris McLaren requestLando Norris has expressed concerns regarding the performance of the McLaren MCL40, particularly in low-speed situations, and has requested the team to focus on improvements. Despite recent successes, including back-to-back wins, he does not believe the car is capable of winning the championship without significant enhancements. McLaren's team principal, Andrea Stella, agrees that the upcoming Italian Grand Prix at Monza will be a critical test for the team's capabilities, especially given the track's characteristics that do not favor the MCL40's strengths.
Stella and Norris both recognize the challenges posed by Monza's long straights and braking zones, which are not ideal for their car. While McLaren has shown promise in high-speed circuits, the team needs to confirm their improvements at Monza to maintain optimism for the remainder of the season. The last victory for McLaren at Monza was in 2021, and the team is eager to break that drought while addressing the performance gaps highlighted by Norris.PlanetF1Thu 3 Sep · 16:17 UTC
via CrashGeorge Russell claims McLaren is the team to beatGeorge Russell has expressed his ambition for Mercedes to reclaim the title of the 'team to beat' in Formula 1. He acknowledges McLaren's current strong performance but remains uncertain about the overall favorites in the ongoing season.Crash+ 1 moreThu 3 Sep · 15:40 UTC
via f1technical.netNorris reveals what he needs from McLaren to feel capable of winningLando Norris has explained in detail what his 2026 McLaren needs to feel like from behind the wheel for him to have the confidence to fight for victory, saying the Dutch Grand Prix demonstrated how dramatically his performance can change when the car gives him the characteristics he wants.
f1technical.netThu 3 Sep · 12:00 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.Motorsport.comThu 3 Sep · 11:44 UTC
via gpfans.comRUMOUROscar 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.
gpfans.comThu 3 Sep · 08:45 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.PlanetF1+ 2 moreThu 3 Sep · 05:50 UTC
via RacingNews365McLaren preach caution ahead of F1 season-defining challengeMcLaren's team principal, Andrea Stella, has expressed caution ahead of the Italian Grand Prix, highlighting that the characteristics of their MCL40 car that excelled at previous circuits may not translate well to Monza. Lando Norris arrives with momentum from recent victories but acknowledges the car's limitations, particularly in slow-speed corners, which could impact their performance at the upcoming race.
Stella noted that Monza presents a unique challenge due to its low-drag requirements and heavy braking zones. He emphasized the importance of confirming their improvements at this circuit to maintain optimism for the remainder of the season. The team is focused on maximizing their performance one race at a time as they prepare for the demands of Monza.RacingNews365Thu 3 Sep · 05:25 UTC
via PlanetF1Italian GP predictions: Antonelli disaster, McLaren surprise, civil war breaks outAs the 13th round of the F1 2026 season approaches, Kimi Antonelli faces a grid penalty that complicates his championship lead. Predictions suggest George Russell will take the win, with McLaren and Ferrari drivers also in contention. The article explores the evolving dynamics within teams, particularly regarding qualifying strategies and potential conflicts among teammates.PlanetF1Thu 3 Sep · 05:06 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.RacingNews365Thu 3 Sep · 04:30 UTC
via f1technical.netVowles hails the early impact of McLaren's former chief operating office at GroveWilliams team principal James Vowles has praised the early contributions of Piers Thynne, who joined the team as Chief Optimisation and Planning Officer after a long tenure at McLaren. Thynne's experience is seen as crucial for Williams as they work to modernize their operations and improve efficiency in manufacturing and resource management, which are essential for their competitive resurgence in Formula 1.
Thynne's appointment is part of a broader restructuring effort under Vowles aimed at addressing the team's historical weaknesses and underinvestment. With the challenges posed by the 2026 regulation changes, Vowles believes that Thynne's expertise will help accelerate the transformation needed for Williams to return to championship contention, emphasizing that improvements in processes and infrastructure are just as important as technical upgrades.f1technical.netThu 3 Sep · 01:00 UTC
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.grandprix.comWed 2 Sep · 21:55 UTC
via gpfans.comRed Bull announce Max Verstappen replacement at F1 Italian Grand PrixRed Bull Racing has announced that Ayumu Iwasa will step in for Max Verstappen during the first free practice session at the Italian Grand Prix, allowing Verstappen to rest. This change is part of the FIA's regulations requiring teams to field rookie drivers in practice sessions, and it marks Red Bull's second of four such changes for the 2026 season. Iwasa, a promising talent from the Red Bull junior program, has already gained experience in several F1 sessions and is currently competing in Japan's Super Formula series.
Additionally, Isack Hadjar will be absent from the race due to a wrist injury, with Liam Lawson taking his place. Yuki Tsunoda will also be involved, stepping in for Lawson at Racing Bulls. This reshuffling highlights the ongoing adjustments teams must make throughout the season due to injuries and regulatory requirements.gpfans.comWed 2 Sep · 18:45 UTC
via PlanetF1Is Liam Lawson the big winner of Helmut Marko’s Red Bull exit?Liam Lawson has found a silver lining in Helmut Marko's departure from Red Bull, as he no longer faces constant scrutiny from the former motorsport advisor. After a challenging start in 2023 and a brief stint with Red Bull Racing, Lawson has rebuilt his reputation and emerged as a preferred substitute driver for the team, recently scoring points at the Dutch Grand Prix.
As Lawson prepares for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix, he will continue to drive the RB22 while Isack Hadjar recovers from injury. Guenther Steiner has noted that Lawson's confidence has improved without Marko's oversight, allowing him to focus on his performance and adapt to the car more effectively.PlanetF1Wed 2 Sep · 18:00 UTC