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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.
via PlanetF1FIA confirms Charles Leclerc findings after ‘extensive’ Ferrari inspectionThe FIA conducted an extensive inspection of Charles Leclerc's Ferrari following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, confirming that the car complied with the 2026 Formula One regulations. This inspection was part of the FIA's routine checks for top-10 finishers, and Leclerc's car was randomly selected for further examination.
Leclerc finished fourth in the race, while George Russell from Mercedes took the victory. After the race, Leclerc revealed that he had used the ADUO2 engine, which had raised questions after his crash at Monza. The FIA's checks focused on the internal combustion air intake cooling system and other components, all of which were found to meet the required standards.
via f1oversteer.comLewis Hamilton still needs to do one thing that made Michael Schumacher a 'part' of FerrariRalf Schumacher highlighted that Lewis Hamilton must learn Italian to truly integrate into Ferrari, similar to how his brother Michael Schumacher did. Michael's fluency in the language significantly contributed to his success and connection with the team, making him a beloved figure among the Tifosi.
Hamilton started learning Italian at the suggestion of Sebastian Vettel prior to his move to Ferrari. However, given the time it took Schumacher to master the language, it remains uncertain if Hamilton will achieve the same level of rapport with his engineers before potentially leaving the team, as he is contracted until 2027.
via grandprix.comMateschitz invests another $28 million in Red Bull RingMark Mateschitz is investing approximately $28 million in a new rooftop terrace at the Red Bull Ring, enhancing the venue's facilities as it prepares for a long-term Formula 1 future. The project, which will replace temporary VIP structures, is part of a broader commitment to modernise the circuit ahead of the 2041 agreement.
The rooftop terrace will be about 820 feet long and is expected to be completed before the Austrian Grand Prix scheduled for July 9-11, 2027. This investment follows previous upgrades totalling around $28 million, which included enhancements to the pit complex and nearby hotel, bringing the total recent investment to approximately $57 million.
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc saw Ferrari employees do something that’s ‘not good’ amid Fred Vasseur sack rumoursCharles Leclerc has voiced his discontent regarding the impact of speculation surrounding Fred Vasseur's future as Ferrari team principal. He noted that it was 'not good' to see Ferrari employees engaging with the rumours, which he believes create unnecessary unrest within the team.
Despite the swirling speculation, Leclerc reaffirmed his support for Vasseur, highlighting the importance of focusing on their work rather than external distractions. He acknowledged that while constructive criticism is acceptable, spreading unfounded rumours is disrespectful and detrimental to team morale.
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.
via f1oversteer.comJolyon Palmer says Kimi Antonelli's 'grandmother' comments give George Russell a 'glimmer' of hopeGeorge Russell's recent victory in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has reignited his hopes for the F1 Drivers' Championship, especially after teammate Kimi Antonelli's admission of struggling with confidence. Antonelli, who finished fifth after starting from sixteenth, described his cautious driving style as akin to that of a 'grandmother', which has raised questions about his current form.
Jolyon Palmer noted that Antonelli's comments could provide Russell with a psychological edge as the season progresses. Russell's dominant performance, leading every lap of the race, showcased a change in his driving style, which may further pressure Antonelli as they head into the next race in Bahrain.
via gpfans.comF1 champion Fernando Alonso handed career-high payday at the age of 45Fernando Alonso has secured a new contract with Aston Martin that reportedly makes him the highest-paid driver of his career at the age of 45. The deal, which will take effect in 2027, is said to exceed $40 million annually, surpassing his previous earnings at McLaren.
In an official statement, Alonso expressed his happiness about the contract and his commitment to the team. This new salary positions him as the joint-third highest-paid driver in Formula 1, behind Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, while overtaking other notable drivers like Charles Leclerc and George Russell.
via Formula1.comHamilton condemns ‘negative narrative’ around VasseurLewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc have publicly supported Fred Vasseur, Ferrari's Team Principal, amidst speculation regarding his future due to the team's recent performance. Hamilton condemned the negative narrative surrounding Vasseur, asserting that the team remains united and focused on their goals despite external pressures. He highlighted the hard work being done within the team and emphasized that Vasseur is the right leader for Ferrari.
Leclerc echoed Hamilton's sentiments, expressing trust in Vasseur's abilities and dismissing the ongoing rumours as disrespectful. Both drivers noted the improvements Ferrari has made this season, including their position in the Constructors' Championship, while acknowledging that challenges remain. They called for a focus on the team's efforts rather than external criticism.
via Motorsport WeekCharles Leclerc defends Fred Vasseur amid speculationCharles Leclerc has publicly supported Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur, dismissing ongoing rumours linking Christian Horner to the role. To avoid distractions from the speculation, Leclerc has deleted social media applications from his phone.
via Motorsport WeekCharles Leclerc backs Ferrari boss Fred VasseurCharles Leclerc has expressed his support for Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur as he faces pressure ahead of the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. Leclerc stated that he has trust in Vasseur's leadership during this challenging period for the team.
via Sky Sports F1Fred Vasseur calls for unity amid Ferrari scrutinyFerrari team principal Fred Vasseur has urged his team to remain united and avoid distractions amid speculation regarding his position. Lewis Hamilton has publicly supported Vasseur, emphasising that he is the right person to lead Ferrari despite calls for changes within the team's structure.
via RacingNews365Isack Hadjar to receive grid penalty in MalaysiaIsack Hadjar has confirmed that he will face a grid penalty for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The Red Bull driver is set to drop at least five places on the starting grid.
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.
via PlanetF1Franco Colapinto faces grid penalty at Bahrain GPAlpine driver Franco Colapinto will receive an additional grid penalty for the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia due to a new Mercedes V6 engine installation. This penalty adds to an existing five-place grid drop, resulting in a challenging start for Colapinto at Sepang.
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.
via CrashMax Verstappen to race in GT World Challenge finaleMax Verstappen will make his debut in the GT World Challenge Europe series this month, competing against Valentino Rossi. The Red Bull Racing driver will participate in a GT3 race at Portimao, driving a Mercedes-AMG GT3 entered by 2 Seas Motorsport.
via Motorsport.comLaurent Mekies credited with ending Red Bull's second seat "curse"Laurent Mekies, the Team Principal of Red Bull Racing, has been credited with transforming the team's culture, which has reportedly helped Isack Hadjar thrive in his role. Will Buxton highlighted that Mekies has replaced the historically ruthless environment with a more supportive atmosphere, allowing drivers to perform better without excessive pressure.
Hadjar, who was promoted to Red Bull in 2026, impressed in his first race back after recovering from a wrist injury, finishing third. The change in management style under Mekies is seen as a significant factor in lifting what was referred to as Red Bull's second seat 'curse', which had previously troubled the team in finding a suitable teammate for Max Verstappen.
via f1oversteer.comJolyon Palmer thinks Oscar Piastri’s explanation for 2026 struggles is ‘amazing’Oscar Piastri has shared his thoughts on the challenges posed by the 2026 Formula 1 cars, which he feels do not align with his driving style. Despite a successful 2025 season where he won seven races, Piastri is currently struggling in 2026, sitting significantly behind his teammate Lando Norris in the standings. Norris has been the standout performer for McLaren this year, securing both of the team's wins and leading Piastri by 66 points.
Jolyon Palmer expressed admiration for Piastri's candidness, noting the trend of drivers like Piastri and George Russell banding together to discuss their difficulties with the new car dynamics. Palmer reflected on his own experiences of being overlooked during similar struggles in the past. As the season progresses, Piastri is looking to improve his performance, particularly at the upcoming Malaysian Grand Prix, where he hopes the unique circuit conditions will provide a more level playing field.
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.Page 4 of 97