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via racer.comTechnical updates: 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in MalaysiaMercedes is the only Formula 1 team to bring a significant update package to the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, focusing on performance gains. The updates include a completely new floor design with various enhancements, alongside new suspension fairings and tweaks to the rear bodywork to improve aerodynamics.
Other teams are also making updates, with McLaren introducing a circuit-specific engine cover, Alpine enhancing brake cooling components, and Ferrari improving its diffuser. Red Bull and Haas are making minor adjustments, while Williams, Aston Martin, Audi, and Cadillac have not submitted any updates.
Fri 2 Oct · 03:04 UTC
via f1chronicle.comGeorge Russell believes he can challenge Kimi AntonelliGeorge Russell expressed confidence in his ability to compete for the Formula 1 title, stating he is no longer 'lost' in his Mercedes. After reducing Kimi Antonelli's championship lead from 81 points to 66, Russell feels invigorated and ready to take on the challenge.
+ 1 moreThu 1 Oct · 21:33 UTC
via Motorsport.comThe sim rig Max Verstappen swears by ahead of his GT3 race against RossiMax Verstappen is preparing for his upcoming GT World Challenge Europe race against Valentino Rossi, scheduled for October 17 at Portimao. Verstappen will drive the No. 3 Mercedes-AMG GT3, taking over for drivers who are competing in another championship that weekend. He has not driven a GT3 car since the Nurburgring 24 Hours in May, making this a significant return to the track.
To prepare, Verstappen relies on a static sim rig, which he believes allows for faster lap times compared to motion rigs. His setup includes high-end components and is valued at an estimated $25,000 to $35,000. Verstappen's commitment to sim racing is evident, as he logs more hours on his rig than many competitors do in actual GT3 cars, showcasing his dedication to mastering multiple forms of motorsport.
Thu 1 Oct · 21:18 UTC
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri expresses concern over Mercedes upgradeOscar Piastri has voiced his worries regarding Mercedes' recent upgrade to the W17, which he believes could pose a significant threat to rival teams. The McLaren driver noted that George Russell's strong performance in Baku adds to the unease among competitors like Ferrari and Red Bull.
+ 1 moreThu 1 Oct · 21:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLewis Hamilton snubbed as Emerson Fittipaldi picks Oscar Piastri among his five favourite F1 driversEmerson Fittipaldi believes Ferrari have two “strong drivers” in Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, but neither rank among the Brazilian’s favourites on the 2026 grid. ...
Thu 1 Oct · 20:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comMcLaren fans say Colapinto's latest interview is keeping the Norris row aliveLando Norris has publicly apologised to Franco Colapinto following their clash during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where both drivers were involved in a multi-car incident that ended their races. Despite their reconciliation, Colapinto's recent comments in an interview have reignited tensions among fans, who feel the situation is far from resolved.
In the interview, Colapinto critiqued Norris's reaction, comparing it to how Max Verstappen handled a similar incident. This comparison did not sit well with fans, leading to a wave of negative responses on social media. While both drivers have moved on from the incident, the fanbase remains divided, with many still expressing frustration over the events that unfolded in Baku.Thu 1 Oct · 19:39 UTC
via f1oversteer.comDamon Hill responds to claims Adrian Newey's Red Bull success 'wasn't all his own work'Damon Hill has come to the defence of Adrian Newey, who is currently facing criticism for his performance at Aston Martin. Hill, who has worked closely with Newey in the past, highlighted Newey's impressive track record in Formula 1, particularly during his time with Red Bull, and expressed confidence that Newey can turn things around at Aston Martin despite the team's current struggles.
Hill also addressed the challenges faced by Honda, the engine supplier for Aston Martin, noting their need for focus and direction to improve their competitive standing. He believes that with the right guidance, Honda can make significant progress, and he pointed out that the current deficit could lead to substantial advancements in the future.Thu 1 Oct · 18:30 UTC
via Motorsport.comOscar Piastri brushes off F1 friendship fears after Langkawi boys' tripOscar Piastri has addressed concerns regarding friendships among Formula 1 drivers, stating that such relationships do not diminish their competitive spirit. This comes after a boys' trip to Langkawi, where Piastri and several other drivers, including Lando Norris and George Russell, spent time together between races.
Piastri emphasized the importance of the trip as a rare opportunity to unwind and connect with fellow drivers outside of the racing environment. He acknowledged that while they are competitors on the track, they share common interests that are often overlooked during the racing season.Thu 1 Oct · 18:26 UTC
via f1oversteer.comForget Ollie Bearman, Ferrari must look at Fred Vasseur favourite to be Lewis Hamilton’s successorOliver Bearman, who has been seen as a potential successor to Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari, faces increasing competition from Rafael Camara. With Hamilton likely to remain at Ferrari until at least 2028 and Charles Leclerc's new contract, Bearman's chances of joining the team are diminishing. He will continue with Haas in 2027, but the arrival of Camara could complicate his future prospects.
Camara, a Ferrari-backed driver, is currently battling for the Formula 2 title and has shown impressive pace in testing. With Esteban Ocon leaving Haas, Camara is expected to replace him, which could threaten Bearman's position. If Camara performs well, he may fast-track his way to Ferrari, leaving Bearman in a precarious situation regarding his career trajectory.Thu 1 Oct · 18:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli makes eye-catching Mercedes F1 admission after 'conscious decision'Kimi Antonelli has acknowledged his personal growth in Formula 1, particularly after his performance in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix where he finished fifth. He started the race from 16th due to a wall collision during qualifying, marking a significant recovery that he attributes to a conscious decision to drive within his limits rather than risk a potential no-score.
Reflecting on his progress over the past year, Antonelli stated that he would not have been capable of such a strategic approach 12 months ago. He recognised the importance of securing points in challenging situations, especially after a disrupted weekend filled with difficulties, and expressed satisfaction with his decision to prioritize a safe finish over aggressive driving.Thu 1 Oct · 17:40 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen signals greatest Red Bull desire as drought continuesMax Verstappen is seeking his first victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season after finishing second in Baku, extending his winless streak to 15 races. Despite a series of podium finishes, Red Bull has struggled to keep pace with rivals, currently sitting fourth in the constructors' standings behind Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren.
Verstappen, who is sixth in the drivers' standings, acknowledged the team's challenges but remains determined to secure a win this season. He noted that recent upgrades to the car showed promise in Baku, although he is cautious about their effectiveness on different circuits. With Mercedes dominating the season, Verstappen's focus is on learning and improving as the year progresses.Thu 1 Oct · 17:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comMax Verstappen laughs off Malaysian heat concerns: "Months of preparation to not give an F!"Max Verstappen, the Red Bull Racing driver, has expressed his ambition to secure a victory in the 2026 season, despite finishing on the podium in six of the last eight races. He recalls his last win at the Sepang International Circuit in 2017 and acknowledges the challenges posed by the Malaysian heat and rough track conditions, which can lead to significant tyre degradation.
Verstappen dismissed concerns about the heat, stating he had undergone months of preparation and is accustomed to racing in hot conditions. He also mentioned that Mercedes' upcoming upgrade could complicate Red Bull's chances of winning, but he remains focused on performing well and validating the effectiveness of their recent upgrades at different circuits.Thu 1 Oct · 16:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc warns Ferrari that two problems will still exist even after fixing the engineCharles Leclerc has expressed concerns that Ferrari's issues extend beyond their engine performance, which he acknowledges is currently lacking compared to rivals like Mercedes and Red Bull. He emphasised the need for improvements in both chassis and aerodynamics as competitors are rapidly catching up, particularly with significant upgrades from Mercedes.
While Ferrari is set to introduce some minor upgrades, Leclerc remains cautious, stating that these will not fundamentally change their performance. The team is shifting focus towards the 2027 design, with current developments stemming from earlier work. Leclerc's comments reflect a sense of urgency for Ferrari to enhance their overall competitiveness as they face increasing pressure from rival teams.Thu 1 Oct · 15:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Mercedes combat W17 weakness with rare F1 upgradeMercedes has delivered a significant aerodynamic upgrade to its W17 car ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, focusing on enhancing downforce. This upgrade is the first major change since the Montreal race in May and includes modifications to the sidepod design and the floor of the car, aimed at addressing its performance weaknesses.
The new sidepod features a straight ramp design and a slimmer rear section to improve airflow towards the rear axle. The changes are expected to enhance the car's dynamic balance, particularly in slow corners where the W17 has struggled. Mercedes engineers have specifically targeted the Sepang circuit for testing this upgrade, which is anticipated to improve overall performance without increasing drag.Thu 1 Oct · 15:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen reveals what he's had to ‘accept’ at Red Bull amid Mercedes' dominance this seasonMax Verstappen has expressed his acceptance of Red Bull's current struggles in the 2026 Formula 1 season, acknowledging that he cannot compete for the championship this year. With only eight races left, he risks finishing the season without a win, a situation he hasn't faced since his rookie year in 2015. He has had to settle for second place multiple times, sharing the record for the most second-place finishes with George Russell.
In a recent podcast appearance, Verstappen reflected on the challenges of not being in title contention, likening it to his early years in the sport. He remains focused on improving the team's performance and aims to return to competitive form next season. Verstappen's commitment to Red Bull is evident as he signed a new contract, while the team seeks stability in their driver line-up to regain their competitive edge.Thu 1 Oct · 15:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Charles Leclerc defends Fred Vasseur amid Horner rumoursCharles Leclerc has publicly supported Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur in response to speculation linking Christian Horner to the role. The comments come after Horner's remarks prompted a strong reaction from Leclerc, who described the situation as 'disrespectful'.Thu 1 Oct · 14:20 UTC
via AutosportLando Norris apologises to Franco Colapinto after backlashLando Norris has publicly apologised to Franco Colapinto following his controversial comments after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The reigning Formula 1 champion stated that the apology was intended to help calm the situation after facing significant online criticism.
+ 3 moreThu 1 Oct · 14:17 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi Antonelli and George Russell in title showdownKimi Antonelli has stated his intention to 're-establish the order' over George Russell at the upcoming Bahrain Grand Prix, as the two Mercedes drivers compete for the 2026 Formula 1 Drivers' Championship. With eight rounds remaining, Russell believes Antonelli is now 'under pressure' following recent performances.+ 1 moreThu 1 Oct · 14:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comGeorge Russell flags tyre overheating concern ahead of Malaysian Grand PrixGeorge Russell has expressed concerns about tyre overheating at the Malaysian Grand Prix, which could complicate overtaking maneuvers. He highlighted that the hot conditions at the Sepang International Circuit may lead to aggressive tyre degradation, making it difficult for drivers to maintain close racing.
With the FIA declaring a heat hazard for the weekend, both Russell and McLaren's Oscar Piastri are preparing for a challenging race. The resurfaced track, which hasn't hosted a race since 2017, may present grip issues, and Friday's practice sessions will be vital for teams to assess tyre performance and adapt to the conditions.Thu 1 Oct · 13:51 UTC
via RacingNews365Isack Hadjar outlines repeat Red Bull plan after 'huge step'Isack Hadjar is set to approach the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia similarly to his recent performance in Baku, where he achieved a podium finish after recovering from a wrist injury. He missed three races but returned to the RB22 cockpit, benefiting from Red Bull's significant aerodynamic upgrades.
Hadjar plans to take a gradual approach in Malaysia, focusing on acclimatising to the unfamiliar Sepang circuit. He expressed optimism about the upgrades that worked well in Baku but acknowledged the need to adapt to the different track layout in Malaysia.Thu 1 Oct · 13:40 UTCPage 3 of 97