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via grandprix.comWilliams must copy Aston's big leap says SainzCarlos Sainz emphasized the need for Williams to replicate the significant advancements made by Aston Martin, particularly after their recent performance boost at the Hungaroring with a new 'B' car. He noted that while Williams has a lighter specification coming for the Baku race, it may not be enough to compete effectively this season, suggesting that the team should focus on next year's car for more substantial improvements.
Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso highlighted that their new chassis has resolved previous correlation issues, allowing for better performance and clarity on future enhancements. He acknowledged the need for increased engine power from Honda, which is expected to be tested soon. Overall, both Sainz and Alonso see potential for growth and improvement within their respective teams.
via AutosportHamilton and Antonelli receive grid penalties in HungaryLewis Hamilton and Kimi Antonelli have both been issued three-place grid penalties ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix. Antonelli's penalty was due to a yellow flag infringement during qualifying.
via AutosportHamilton receives grid drop for impeding PiastriLewis Hamilton has been penalized with a three-place grid drop for impeding Oscar Piastri during the qualifying session for the Hungarian Grand Prix. The incident occurred in the final stages of Q3, prompting an investigation by the FIA stewards.
via AutosportLando Norris secures pole in Hungary, Hamilton penalisedLando Norris achieved his first pole position of the 2026 season at the Hungarian Grand Prix, narrowly beating Lewis Hamilton by just 0.012 seconds. Both Hamilton and Kimi Antonelli received grid penalties, impacting their starting positions for the race.
via AutosportF1 Hungarian GP: Norris beats Hamilton to top final practiceMcLaren driver Lando Norris has led a three-team fight to top final practice at Formula 1's Hungarian Grand Prix, setting up an intriguing qualifying session in Budapest. Norris' late 1m18.939s flyer was just over a tenth quicker than Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes' championship leader Kimi Antonelli on the twisty Hungaroring. FP3's opening phase was quiet as drivers kept their powder dry for ... Keep reading
via theguardian.com‘I’m living every lap and every corner’: Allan McNish on guiding Audi into F1 from pitwallAllan McNish, a former driver and successful sports car racer, is now the racing director for Audi's newly formed Formula 1 team, which made its debut in 2026. He brings a wealth of experience from his racing career, including multiple victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and aims to guide Audi through the challenges of entering the highly competitive F1 environment. Despite the team's current struggles, ranking ninth in the constructors' championship, McNish remains optimistic about their potential for growth and success in the coming years.
McNish emphasizes the importance of understanding the driver's needs and experiences in his role, drawing parallels between his past as a driver and his current responsibilities. Audi's strategy includes a five-year plan to become competitive, with a target set for 2030 to contend for championships. McNish's leadership and insights are seen as valuable assets as Audi navigates its first season in F1, aiming to establish itself as a formidable competitor in the sport.
via grandprix.comBortoleto commits long-term, Sauber defends AudiGabriel Bortoleto has confirmed his long-term commitment to Audi, stating he has a multi-year contract and is optimistic about future successes with the team. Peter Sauber, the retired founder of Sauber, defended the team's progress with the new engine formula and highlighted the importance of team harmony under team principal Mattia Binotto. Bortoleto also addressed the controversial 2026 regulations, arguing that drivers should adapt to different car styles and rejecting claims that technology and software have too much influence on performance in Formula 1.
In addition to Bortoleto's statements, Sauber praised the performance of James Key's car, which has surpassed expectations. Nico Hulkenberg also reassured fans about his future with Audi. Overall, the article highlights a sense of stability and confidence within the Audi team as they navigate the challenges of the new regulations and engine formula.
via grandprix.comThree Macarena wings set for Hungary debutThe upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix will see Ferrari, McLaren, and Red Bull debuting their versions of the innovative 'Macarena' rear-wing concept. Ferrari is refining its design to enhance aerodynamic performance, while Red Bull has resolved previous mechanical issues that led to failures during the season. McLaren plans to test its version during Friday practice, with hopes of improving its competitiveness in the latter half of the season through a comprehensive upgrade package, including a new floor and aerodynamic changes.
Team principal Andrea Stella expressed confidence that the upgrades will help McLaren address its cornering deficits and allow driver Oscar Piastri to better utilize the car's potential. The teams are preparing for a competitive race, with Ferrari expected to maintain its edge in speed at the Hungaroring and Zandvoort, while McLaren targets a stronger performance at future high-speed circuits.
via AutosportF1 Drivers Express Concerns Over Computer-Controlled Power UnitsFormula 1 drivers have voiced their frustrations regarding the increasing reliance on computer algorithms for energy management in their cars. This shift has raised concerns about the impact on race dynamics and the overall excitement of the sport.
via grandprix.comSainz insists Williams has failed with 2026 carCarlos Sainz has expressed strong criticism of Williams' performance in the 2026 Formula 1 season, declaring that the team has failed with its current car. He highlighted the lack of significant upgrades compared to competitors, noting that even the anticipated 'B' car is unlikely to change their fortunes. Sainz emphasized the need for the team to learn from this year's challenges to design a more competitive car for the future.
Despite the struggles, team principal James Vowles remains optimistic about the potential impact of upcoming aerodynamic rule changes for the 2027 season. He believes these changes could provide Williams with a better chance to improve their performance and competitiveness in the sport, aligning with the planned engine changes as well.
via grandprix.comSainz confirms intention to stay with Williams until 2027Carlos Sainz has expressed his intention to stay with Williams through 2027, despite ongoing rumors connecting him to Audi. He emphasized that Williams is his preferred long-term project.
via BBC SportLando Norris faces grid penalty at Belgian Grand PrixLando Norris will start the Belgian Grand Prix with a 10-place grid penalty due to exceeding the allowed number of engine components. Despite this setback, he remains optimistic about his chances to compete effectively during the race.
via grandprix.comMcLaren admits it is months behind rivalsMcLaren has acknowledged that it is currently lagging behind its competitors, specifically Mercedes and Ferrari, by two to three months in the development of its 2026 car. This delay is attributed to the team's commitment to the 2025 season, which resulted in a prolonged focus on their championship-winning vehicle. As a result, they are now required to make corrections to their development strategy to align with the new regulations.
To address these challenges, McLaren is set to debut a new rear wing at the upcoming Belgian GP, although a more ambitious design has been postponed. The team is also receiving an updated Mercedes engine specification. Despite these upgrades, McLaren's leadership has tempered expectations, indicating that significant improvements in competitiveness may not be immediate.
via BBC SportCould it work if Verstappen wanted to go to McLaren? F1 Q&AThe article discusses the current state of the Formula 1 championship, highlighting the tight competition among drivers, particularly Kimi Antonelli, George Russell, and Lewis Hamilton. It also touches on the speculation surrounding Max Verstappen's potential move to McLaren, with insights from Zak Brown about the team's current driver lineup and Verstappen's contract situation with Red Bull.
Additionally, the longevity of drivers like Hamilton and Alonso is examined, noting that while physical demands have decreased, mental commitment remains crucial. The article also celebrates Spa-Francorchamps as a classic circuit, emphasizing its unique challenges and the risks associated with racing there, especially in wet conditions.
via grandprix.comVerstappen options narrow as Webber shuts down rumoursMax Verstappen's future in Formula 1 is becoming increasingly uncertain as speculation about a potential move to McLaren has been firmly denied by Oscar Piastri's manager, Mark Webber. Piastri, who is contracted to McLaren, emphasized his commitment to the team and dismissed the rumors as distractions. Meanwhile, Verstappen's recent criticisms of Red Bull following technical issues have raised questions about his exit clause and future options within the team.
Former drivers and analysts have weighed in on the situation, with some suggesting that Verstappen is unlikely to leave Red Bull, especially given the team's recent restructuring and the performance of other drivers like Kimi Antonelli. The dynamics within Red Bull and the driver market are complex, with Webber actively seeking opportunities for Piastri while maintaining that it does not involve Verstappen's situation. The coming months are expected to be crucial in determining Verstappen's next steps.
via BBC SportNorris 'happy I have the pain of this year for the glory of last'Lando Norris reflects on McLaren's challenging start to the 2026 Formula 1 season, acknowledging that their difficulties stem from the intense effort put into their championship-winning seasons in 2024 and 2025. Despite the reliability issues and a lack of grand prix victories, he remains optimistic about the team's pace and aims for podium finishes, especially at his home race, the British Grand Prix.
Norris, who has been with McLaren for eight years, expresses a strong commitment to the team and a desire to continue his career there. He welcomes the idea of racing alongside top competitors like Max Verstappen but emphasizes his satisfaction with his current teammate, Oscar Piastri. As speculation about driver movements circulates, Norris reassures that both he and Piastri are under contract with McLaren for the foreseeable future.Page 32 of 32













