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via Motorsport.comMercedes finally brings big upgrade and F1 fans are asking if it's game overMercedes has introduced a significant upgrade package for the W17 ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix, marking the first major changes since May. This package includes seven components that enhance the car's aerodynamics, particularly focusing on the floor and sidepods to improve airflow and downforce.
Team principal Toto Wolff expressed hopes that these upgrades will help the team compete for pole position, especially after facing challenges at previous races. Driver George Russell is also optimistic about the changes, indicating that they may benefit his performance. With a strong lead in the championship, Mercedes aims to maintain its competitive edge as more upgrades are expected later in the season.
Fri 2 Oct · 06:10 UTC
via Motorsport.comMax Verstappen leads opening practice at Bahrain GPMax Verstappen of Red Bull set the fastest time in the first practice session for the Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. He was followed closely by George Russell, marking a competitive start to the event.+ 8 moreFri 2 Oct · 05:38 UTC
via AutosportFranco Colapinto faces 15-place grid penalty in BahrainFranco Colapinto of Alpine has been handed a total of 15 grid places in penalties for the upcoming Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix. This includes a five-place drop for taking a new Mercedes V6 engine, alongside additional penalties confirmed by the FIA.
+ 1 moreFri 2 Oct · 05:17 UTC
via AutosportMercedes introduces new floor, sidepods for F1 Bahrain GPMercedes has revealed significant updates to its car for the Bahrain Grand Prix, including a redesigned floor and new sidepods. These changes are aimed at maintaining their competitive edge in the 2026 Formula 1 season, where they have been performing strongly against rivals like Ferrari, McLaren, and Red Bull.
The updates involve a shift in sidepod geometry and enhancements to the floor design to improve airflow and downforce. George Russell noted the importance of these upgrades, as it has been several months since the last major update. Mercedes will also sport a special teal and black livery in recognition of its title partner, Petronas.Fri 2 Oct · 04:31 UTC
via RacingNews3652026 Bahrain Grand Prix Free Practice 1 resultsThe Free Practice 1 session for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix took place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. Full results from the session have been released, detailing the performance of all participating teams and drivers.
+ 3 moreFri 2 Oct · 03:25 UTC
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 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 raises menacing Mercedes concern: 'That's not a great sign'Oscar Piastri has voiced concerns regarding Mercedes' recent performance, particularly after George Russell's dominant victory in Baku and the introduction of a significant upgrade for the upcoming Malaysian Grand Prix. Piastri highlighted that Russell's pole position and race win indicate a strong showing from Mercedes, which could pose challenges for McLaren.
Piastri believes that the Sepang circuit's layout may favour McLaren more than Baku did, as it features high-speed corners that align with their strengths. However, he remains cautious about Mercedes' upgrades, which are designed to enhance their cornering capabilities without sacrificing straight-line speed, potentially complicating McLaren's efforts to compete effectively.Thu 1 Oct · 21:00 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 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 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 Sky Sports F1George Russell optimistic about Mercedes upgradesGeorge Russell expressed optimism regarding the substantial aerodynamic upgrades introduced by Mercedes at the Bahrain Grand Prix. He believes these enhancements will support his performance and contribute to the team's title aspirations.
+ 4 moreThu 1 Oct · 12:48 UTC
via Formula1.comAntonelli believes Russell has ‘got the momentum’Kimi Antonelli has expressed his belief that George Russell has gained significant momentum following his recent victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Despite maintaining a 66-point lead in the drivers' standings, Antonelli acknowledges the challenge Russell poses, especially after his strong performance in Baku where he secured pole position and ultimately won the race.
Looking ahead to the Bahrain Grand Prix, Antonelli is optimistic about the upgrades Mercedes will introduce, which he hopes will enhance the car's grip and downforce. He is eager to test his skills on the Sepang circuit, noting the importance of improving in areas such as managing long corners. Antonelli remains focused on achieving the best results and is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.
Thu 1 Oct · 10:19 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMax Verstappen says George Russell needs big turnaroundMax Verstappen has stated that George Russell requires a significant improvement to catch his teammate Kimi Antonelli in the 2026 Formula One title race, with Russell currently 66 points behind. Meanwhile, Mercedes chief Bradley Lord has expressed concerns about Russell's ability to close the gap as the season progresses.+ 1 moreThu 1 Oct · 10:00 UTC
via CrashArvid Lindblad to start from the back at Bahrain Grand PrixThe FIA has confirmed that Arvid Lindblad will start from the back of the grid at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia due to a series of power unit penalties. The Racing Bulls driver is one of three competitors facing grid penalties for the race.
+ 4 moreThu 1 Oct · 09:16 UTC
via AutosportMax Verstappen to race GT3 at Portimão this monthMax Verstappen has confirmed he will compete in a GT3 race at Portimão, adding to his already busy Formula 1 schedule. The Red Bull Racing driver will race a Mercedes-AMG GT3 entered by 2 Seas Motorsport.+ 4 moreThu 1 Oct · 08:45 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi Antonelli expects major gains from Mercedes upgradesAndrea Kimi Antonelli has stated that Mercedes' engineers anticipate a significant improvement in lap times from their upcoming updates at the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix. Bernie Collins has noted that rivals are closely monitoring the W17 following these developments.Thu 1 Oct · 08:00 UTC
via CrashMax Verstappen hopes to avoid battles with Valentino RossiMax Verstappen expressed his desire to avoid on-track battles with Valentino Rossi during their upcoming GT3 race at Portimao. The four-time Formula 1 champion will compete in the GT World Challenge Europe series, marking his debut in this category.+ 2 moreThu 1 Oct · 07:07 UTC
via the-race.comIsack Hadjar and Franco Colapinto face grid penaltiesIsack Hadjar from Red Bull Racing has received a five-place grid penalty for using a new power unit element beyond his allocation at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. Franco Colapinto from Alpine has been handed a 15-place penalty due to a collision he caused.
+ 5 moreThu 1 Oct · 06:42 UTC
via the-race.comMax Verstappen to race GT3 in Portugal this monthMax Verstappen has confirmed he will compete in a GT3 race in Portugal later this month, marking his return to GT racing. This will be his first appearance in GT3 machinery since the Nurburgring 24 Hours.+ 3 moreThu 1 Oct · 06:20 UTCPage 3 of 34