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via f1oversteer.comMcLaren upgrade to address MCL40 issue that hurts Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri on every lapMcLaren is set to introduce a rear wing update for the MCL40 at the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix, aiming to enhance performance for drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. This follows Norris's recent victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix, where he also achieved pole position, marking a significant achievement for McLaren this season. The team acknowledges that improvements are necessary to compete effectively against rivals like Mercedes and Ferrari.
Technical director Neil Houldey highlighted that other teams have been more successful in optimizing their cars' efficiency in both cornering and straight-line speed. The new rear wing is part of a broader strategy to improve the car's aerodynamic balance, with additional updates planned for future races, including a separate design for the Italian Grand Prix to tackle drag issues at high-speed circuits.
via gpfans.comMcLaren F1 chief Zak Brown suffers agonising DNF at iconic race trackZak Brown, the CEO of McLaren F1, took part in the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at Laguna Seca, a historic motorsport event. During the Bruce McLaren Trophy race, he was leading by a significant margin when a mechanical failure caused him to retire three laps early, resulting in a DNF. Despite this setback, he managed to secure a seventh-place finish in another vehicle and shared his experiences on social media.
In addition to his racing efforts, Brown also had the opportunity to drive a notable Penske Racing car from 2001, showcasing his passion for motorsport. His participation in these events highlights the ongoing engagement of F1 personalities in racing activities during the sport's off-season.
via f1oversteer.comMercedes Acknowledges Significant Development Progress Ahead of 2026Mercedes has reported notable advancements in their car development as they prepare for the 2026 Formula 1 season. Team chief James Allison expressed concerns about the competitive progress of rival teams, particularly Ferrari.
via PlanetF1Cadillac F1 Team Principal Focuses on Ferrari Power Unit InsightsMarcin Budkowski, the new Team Principal of Cadillac F1, aims to explore the performance-enhancing techniques used by Ferrari. He acknowledges that gaining access to these insights may be challenging, as suppliers may not disclose all their methods.
via Motorsport.comFerrari Plans Aggressive Upgrades for 2026 F1 SeasonFerrari has shown progress in the 2026 Formula 1 season but aims to enhance its performance further. The team is set to implement a significant development program in the second half of the season to improve its standing in the Constructors' Championship.
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton 'released' after shouting 'from top of Ferrari mountain'Lewis Hamilton has expressed a renewed sense of freedom and confidence in his performance with Ferrari, attributing this to significant changes implemented by team principal Fred Vasseur. Currently second in the drivers' championship, Hamilton has seen improvements this season compared to his challenging debut year, where he failed to secure any podium finishes. He has highlighted the importance of innovation within the team, particularly with the introduction of a hybrid brake system that aligns more closely with his driving style.
Hamilton's positive outlook is also reflected in his performance, as he has achieved one win and four podiums in the first 11 races of the season. He feels that the changes he advocated for are beginning to take effect, allowing him to focus on racing without the frustrations he faced previously. This shift in dynamics has contributed to a more competitive atmosphere within Ferrari, which Hamilton believes is essential for the team's success moving forward.
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri Faces Challenges in 2026 Formula 1 SeasonOscar Piastri has encountered difficulties during the 2026 Formula 1 season, contrasting sharply with his earlier performance in 2025. Currently, he ranks 12th in the mid-season driver ratings, raising concerns about his trajectory in the sport.
via Motorsport.comGuenther Steiner Claims Mercedes No Longer Needs Max VerstappenFormer Haas team principal Guenther Steiner has stated that Mercedes' need for Max Verstappen has diminished. He suggests that the team may have already identified a promising talent in Kimi Anton.
via Formula1.comKimi Antonelli Aims for Historic Formula 1 Championship TitleMercedes driver Kimi Antonelli is positioned to potentially become the youngest world champion in Formula 1 history. As he pursues this milestone, discussions arise regarding his main competitors and the significance of his potential victory.
via f1technical.netFIA Confirms 'Macarena' Wings Will Remain in Formula 1The FIA has decided not to ban the rotating rear wings, known as 'Macarena' wings, used by several teams in the 2026 season. Red Bull has been instructed to enhance their design, while Ferrari and McLaren are also utilizing this innovative technology.
via CrashMercedes reveal astonishing rate of F1 development in new eraThe 2026 Formula 1 season has seen an unprecedented rate of development among teams, as highlighted by Mercedes' technical director James Allison. He explained that the introduction of new regulations has led to significant aerodynamic gains, with improvements in lap times occurring at a remarkable pace. Mercedes has adopted an aggressive strategy, pushing their car's performance to capture the benefits of this development curve early in the season.
However, this approach has left Mercedes slightly behind competitors who finalized their cars earlier and began upgrades sooner. Allison expressed that while the competitive landscape is rapidly changing, Mercedes is focused on maintaining their lead and preparing for future upgrades to regain any lost advantage. The ongoing development race emphasizes the dynamic nature of the current F1 season.
via RacingNews365McLaren outline relief after Lando Norris-Oscar Piastri concernMcLaren's team principal, Andrea Stella, has expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration between drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, especially after their intense competition for the championship in 2025. Despite the pressures of battling for the title, both drivers have maintained and even strengthened their working relationship this season, which was a concern following their previous rivalry.
Stella highlighted that Piastri has increasingly leaned on the team for support in his development, indicating a positive shift in dynamics. The team is relieved that the harmony established during their competitive season has not only persisted but has also improved, showcasing a strong partnership as they move forward in the current season.
via f1oversteer.comCarlos Sainz Makes Key Decision Regarding Future in Formula 1Carlos Sainz has reportedly made a significant decision concerning his career in Formula 1, particularly regarding his future with Williams. Speculation surrounding his potential exit from the team has intensified, with an announcement expected soon.
via Formula1.comInside the F1 driver’s bubble: The communications officerThe article features an interview with Bradley Lord, who serves as Mercedes' Deputy Team Principal and Chief Communications Officer. He discusses his responsibilities in guiding drivers on how to interact with the media and manage their public image, particularly during race weekends. Lord emphasizes the importance of a dedicated support team that focuses on maximizing driver performance within the larger structure of the Formula 1 organization.
This piece is part of a broader series that aims to shed light on the various roles and dynamics within F1 teams. It highlights the complexity of modern Formula 1 operations, where hundreds of employees work together, and the significance of the small teams that directly support each driver in their professional endeavors.
via gpfans.comF1 Silly Season 2026: Key Transfers and Rumors EmergingThe 2026 Formula 1 Silly Season is generating significant transfer activity and speculation. Notable discussions include potential moves involving Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz, alongside various team seat vacancies.
via the-race.comThe key F1 mistake McLaren can't correct until 2027McLaren has acknowledged a significant design flaw in its 2026 Formula 1 car, specifically that the wheelbase is too short, which hampers its aerodynamic capabilities. This decision was made in an effort to reduce weight, but it has resulted in a slower development pace compared to competitors. The team is now planning to address this issue with a longer car for the 2027 season, while also working on various aerodynamic upgrades for the current season.
Additionally, McLaren is facing challenges with its Mercedes power unit, particularly with gear ratios that do not align with the actual power output. This has led to the formation of a new team focused on optimizing engine performance. Despite these setbacks, McLaren has shown potential, as evidenced by Lando Norris's recent victory, but the team continues to seek improvements in both aerodynamics and engine efficiency to remain competitive.
via Motorsport.comGeorge Russell Reflects on Challenging Mercedes Debut ExperienceGeorge Russell has shared that he still feels the impact of his challenging debut with Mercedes in 2020. He mentioned physical scars from fitting into Lewis Hamilton's race seat, highlighting the difficulties he faced during that time.
via PlanetF1Max Verstappen's Relationship with Red Bull Reportedly DeterioratingRalf Schumacher has suggested that Max Verstappen's relationship with Red Bull may be deteriorating. This speculation comes amid discussions of a potential transfer to McLaren for the four-time champion.
via RacingNews365Mercedes F1 Team Expresses Frustration Over Mid-Season PerformanceMercedes' technical director James Allison has voiced dissatisfaction with the team's performance in the first half of the 2026 Formula 1 season. He described the team's current situation as frustrating, reflecting on the high expectations within elite motorsport.
via PlanetF1Ferrari half-season review: F1 title challenge has shiftedFerrari's performance in the first half of the 2026 Formula 1 season has been marked by competitive starts but inconsistent execution, leaving them 72 points behind Mercedes in the Constructors' Championship. Despite Charles Leclerc's victories in the British Grand Prix and a strong showing in Barcelona, the team has struggled to maintain pace against Mercedes' superior chassis and power unit. Team principal Fred Vasseur has emphasized the need for improved execution and ongoing development of their power unit to remain competitive.
The team has introduced significant upgrades, including a new front wing and changes to the chassis, which have led to suggestions that Ferrari now has the highest-performing chassis on the grid. However, Vasseur acknowledges the challenges ahead, particularly in maintaining their development pace. With a substantial number of points still available in both championships, Ferrari remains in contention but must address execution and engine performance to capitalize on their potential.Page 41 of 53