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via PlanetF1Jonathan Wheatley Returns to F1 Paddock After Audi DepartureJonathan Wheatley has made a surprising return to the Formula 1 paddock at the Dutch Grand Prix. His reappearance comes after he left his position as team principal at Audi earlier this year.
+ 1 moreFri 28 Aug · 06:20 UTC
via PlanetF1Driver’s eye: How Nico Hulkenberg managed to avoid disaster at Dutch Grand PrixDuring the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, Nico Hulkenberg managed to avoid a potentially disastrous collision with his teammate Gabriel Bortoleto after Bortoleto spun on the first lap. Both drivers navigated the tricky damp conditions, with Hulkenberg ultimately finishing in eighth place while Bortoleto recovered to thirteenth after starting from P17. Max Verstappen also faced difficulties, spinning out and hitting the barrier, which ended his race early.
Allan McNish, the Audi team boss, highlighted the skill and instinct displayed by both drivers during the incident. Hulkenberg described the situation as 'a bit wild,' acknowledging the tricky conditions that caught many drivers off guard. Bortoleto expressed his disappointment over his poor start and subsequent spin, indicating that he would review the data with his team to improve in future races.Fri 28 Aug · 05:06 UTC
via RacingNews365Aston Martin given surprise outlook as Alpine make Franco Colapinto decision - RacingNews365 ReviewCarlos Sainz has praised Aston Martin's recent upgrades, claiming they have elevated the team above Williams in performance. Meanwhile, Alpine has made a significant decision by confirming that Franco Colapinto will remain with them through the 2027 season, indicating a commitment to developing young talent.
In other news, Guenther Steiner has hinted that George Russell's role for the remainder of the 2026 season will focus on aiding teammate Kimi Antonelli in his championship pursuit. Additionally, Yuki Tsunoda has opened the door for a potential return to F1 in 2027, while the FIA has officially confirmed the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities allocations.
Thu 27 Aug · 20:00 UTC
via thejudge13.comAston Martin Speaks to Red Bull Powertrains About an Engine for 2028Aston Martin is exploring options for an engine supplier for the 2028 season, engaging in discussions with both Red Bull Powertrains and Mercedes. This comes as Honda has faced challenges in adapting to the new 2026 engine regulations, leading to concerns about their competitiveness. Despite a recent points finish for Fernando Alonso at Zandvoort, the team's performance has raised questions about Honda's ability to deliver a race-winning engine in the near future.
The upcoming Monza race will serve as a critical evaluation of Honda's upgrades, particularly in a high-speed environment where hybrid components are less influential. Meanwhile, the FIA is attempting to revise upgrade rules, but cooperation from major teams remains uncertain. If Aston Martin transitions to Red Bull Powertrains, it would signify a remarkable evolution in the team's engine strategy within a short timeframe.
Thu 27 Aug · 14:11 UTC
via gpfans.comGerman F1 insider issues Audi 'crisis' verdictRalf Schumacher has expressed concerns about Audi's performance in Formula 1, labeling the situation as a 'crisis' due to declining sales and revenue. Audi, which officially entered the F1 grid in 2026 after committing to the sport in 2022, has made significant investments but is currently struggling to achieve its goal of competing for a championship by 2030. The brand's sales have dropped by 7.2% in the first half of 2026, and their operating profit has also seen a significant decline in recent years.
Despite being a new team, Audi is positioned eighth in the constructors' standings and faces the risk of finishing as low as tenth this season. Schumacher emphasizes the urgency for the team to demonstrate success sooner rather than later to maintain support for their F1 investment, suggesting that the timeline for achieving championship aspirations may need to be accelerated.
Thu 27 Aug · 08:30 UTC
via gpfans.comHonda confirm 'important' F1 signings to recreate Newey glory years at Aston MartinHonda is working to revive its successful partnership with Adrian Newey at Aston Martin, aiming to replicate the achievements seen during their time with Red Bull. After facing significant issues with the power unit that affected driver safety, improvements have been made, leading to a better performance at the recent Dutch Grand Prix where Fernando Alonso scored points.
Koji Watanabe, president of Honda Racing Corporation, has confirmed the return of key engineers from the Red Bull era, which he believes will enhance their collaboration with Aston Martin. He views the relationship with Newey as a positive factor and emphasizes that overcoming initial challenges is crucial for their long-term success in Formula 1.Thu 27 Aug · 07:45 UTC
via PlanetF1Alonso provides latest Aston Martin and Honda assessment after Dutch GPFernando Alonso provided an assessment of Aston Martin's performance following the Dutch Grand Prix, where he finished in ninth place. He highlighted that the team made progress with new components and fine-tuning upgrades, although he faced challenges with engine performance and communication issues during the race. Alonso felt that the result was justified, especially considering the DNF of Max Verstappen, and expressed hope for better outcomes in future races, particularly on circuits that favor their car's strengths.
Alonso's comments reflected a mix of optimism and realism regarding the team's capabilities. He acknowledged the difficulties faced with the car's drivability and engine braking but remained confident that improvements could be made as they continue to adapt to different circuits. His insights suggest a focus on ongoing development and strategic adjustments as the season progresses.Thu 27 Aug · 06:37 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 paddock insider shares fascinating verdict on Aston Martin's billionaire owner Lawrence StrollRalf Schumacher has praised Lawrence Stroll, the billionaire owner of Aston Martin, for his significant contributions to Formula 1 since entering the sport in 2018. Stroll's leadership has seen the team evolve from Force India to Aston Martin, with substantial investments in infrastructure and personnel, including the hiring of Adrian Newey and the signing of Fernando Alonso as a driver.
Schumacher believes that Stroll's assertiveness and passion for the sport are beneficial for F1, and he is optimistic about Aston Martin's prospects for the remainder of the season. Following a major car upgrade, the team has shown improvement, with Alonso recently scoring points, indicating a positive trajectory for their performance.Wed 26 Aug · 21:30 UTC
via Sky Sports F1FIA Confirms Engine Upgrade Status for Mercedes and Red BullThe FIA has announced that Red Bull will not receive any additional engine upgrades for the remainder of the 2026 season. In contrast, Mercedes has been granted permission to continue developing their engine, despite objections from competing teams.
+ 1 moreWed 26 Aug · 16:58 UTC
via F1iAudi F1 junior Slater hails ‘incredible’ Madring after F3 testFreddie Slater, the leader of the FIA F3 Championship, expressed his excitement about the new Madring circuit after a two-day test. He praised the 5.416-kilometer track for its character and challenging corners, stating it is one of the most enjoyable tracks he has driven. Slater's positive experience comes ahead of the circuit's first Formula 1 race scheduled for September 11-13, 2026.
The Madring will replace Barcelona as the venue for the Spanish Grand Prix under a 10-year agreement. Notably, Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc have already tested the circuit, and Carlos Sainz was the first F1 driver to complete a lap there. Slater's feedback and the anticipation surrounding the track suggest it could become a significant addition to the Formula 1 calendar.
Wed 26 Aug · 14:51 UTC
via grandprix.comMercedes rumours grow as Aston waits on HondaAston Martin's initial season with Honda engines has not gone smoothly, leading to rumors about a potential switch back to Mercedes power by 2028. Meetings between Toto Wolff and Aston Martin representatives have fueled speculation, especially after Fernando Alonso expressed concerns about the current engine's performance and drivability. He indicated that the team would require time to adjust and optimize their setup.
Honda's president, Koji Watanabe, acknowledged the need for improvements and stated that the company is working on rebuilding its engineering capabilities. However, he did not commit to a timeline for delivering a top-performing engine. If Honda fails to make significant progress in the upcoming season, Aston Martin may reconsider its partnership, making the ongoing discussions with Mercedes more relevant.
via f1oversteer.comAston Martin have started ‘exploring’ another Mercedes engine deal with Toto WolffAston Martin is currently in discussions with Mercedes to explore alternative engine options after a disappointing performance with Honda. The team, which switched to Honda engines at the end of the 2025 season, has faced significant challenges, including a loss of over a second per lap despite recent upgrades. Meetings between Aston Martin and Mercedes have taken place throughout the season, indicating a potential shift back to Mercedes engines in the future.
While Aston Martin has not issued an ultimatum to Honda, they are clearly seeking to apply pressure for improvements. The team has also been in talks with other companies regarding power unit options, with a deal with Mercedes being viewed as the most logical next step. Honda's recent performance has not met expectations, leading to uncertainty about the partnership's future.
Wed 26 Aug · 10:30 UTC
via gpfans.comHonda boss wants to 'make history with Fernando Alonso', he just doesn't know whenAt the recent Dutch Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso showcased his skills by finishing ninth, contributing to Aston Martin's second points finish of the season. This performance was supported by a new Honda power unit, which has been under scrutiny for its competitiveness this year. The team has also implemented aerodynamic upgrades that have positively impacted their performance.
Koji Watanabe, president of Honda Racing Corporation, emphasized the company's ambition to achieve a historic victory with Alonso, although he refrained from specifying a timeline for this goal. He highlighted the importance of Alonso's feedback in their development process and expressed a strong desire for him to re-sign with Aston Martin for the 2027 season.Wed 26 Aug · 09:57 UTC
via f1oversteer.comPaddock ‘whispers’ claim Fernando Alonso’s 2027 decision is made as Madrid announcement plannedFernando Alonso is nearing the end of his contract with Aston Martin, which expires after the 2026 season. He has an option to extend his contract for 2027, and there are rumors that he has already decided to remain with Aston Martin. Alonso plans to make an official announcement regarding his future at the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix.
Despite facing challenges with Honda's engine this season, Alonso recently secured P9 in the Dutch GP, marking a significant improvement in his performance. His decision to stay with Aston Martin appears influenced by the team's potential for success and his desire to avoid leaving just as they begin to make progress.Wed 26 Aug · 09:30 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 News Today: Hamilton makes big admission, Newey's wife takes down Aston Martin criticLewis Hamilton publicly acknowledged that his recent comments regarding Ferrari's race strategy during the Dutch Grand Prix were not reflective of his best self. He accepted responsibility for his outburst, which he felt cost him a chance at a podium finish, while former Ferrari driver Jean Alesi criticized Hamilton for his remarks, suggesting that the team deserves respect. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen has secured a lucrative contract extension with Red Bull and is facing challenges with his team's performance, as they look ahead to future improvements.
In addition to these developments, the FIA has responded to online abuse directed at race stewards after the Dutch Grand Prix, where several penalties were issued. The situation has drawn attention to the pressures faced by officials in the sport. Furthermore, Gianpiero Lambiase is expected to transition to McLaren by 2028, indicating shifts in team dynamics as the season progresses.Wed 26 Aug · 06:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comHonda president makes major promise to Lawrence Stroll and Aston Martin about 2027 engineHonda's president, Koji Watanabe, has made a commitment to Aston Martin regarding significant improvements to their engine by 2027. Despite recent upgrades, Aston Martin's drivers have expressed dissatisfaction, citing a performance gap of 1.5 seconds per lap compared to Mercedes. Honda is permitted to make multiple upgrades in the coming years, and Watanabe is optimistic about closing the gap to top teams in the standings next season.
Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin's team owner, has a long-term vision that began in 2021, aiming for competitive success. Watanabe has reassured fans of their dedication to improvement and has brought back top engineers to enhance their performance. While he cannot promise championships, he emphasized Honda's goal to win in the future.Tue 25 Aug · 17:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Nico Hulkenberg receives 'some people have it' praise after 'Days of Thunder' near-missDuring the Dutch Grand Prix, Nico Hulkenberg narrowly escaped a serious accident when he avoided colliding with his Audi teammate Gabriel Bortoleto, who lost control of his car on the opening lap. The incident occurred in damp conditions, leading to Bortoleto spinning and creating a smoke screen that obscured Hulkenberg's view as he approached the scene. Hulkenberg's quick decision to steer left allowed him to avoid a potentially disastrous collision.
Audi's team principal, Allan McNish, praised Hulkenberg's reflexes and compared the situation to a scene from the movie 'Days of Thunder'. He emphasized that some drivers possess an instinctive ability to navigate such dangerous situations, which was evident in both drivers' responses during the incident. McNish's comments underscored the critical nature of instinct and judgment in high-stakes racing environments.Tue 25 Aug · 15:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comAston Martin's new upgrades mean nothing if Adrian Newey can't fix the problem on the pit wallAston Martin's recent upgrades to the AMR26 have shown potential, but the team's pit wall, led by Adrian Newey, has made critical errors that have impacted race outcomes. Fernando Alonso managed to secure a P9 finish at the Dutch Grand Prix despite starting from P18 due to a qualifying blunder, highlighting the importance of effective race strategy.
The team has faced ongoing issues with race strategies, including poor timing and decision-making during qualifying and races, which have hindered their performance. As the AMR26 becomes more competitive, it is essential for Aston Martin to rectify these strategic missteps to improve their standings in the championship.Tue 25 Aug · 13:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comAdrian Newey's Wife Responds to Criticism of Aston Martin CarAdrian Newey's wife reacted to comments made by F1 commentator Antonio Lobato regarding the performance of the Aston Martin chassis. Lobato criticized the car's handling during the Dutch Grand Prix, prompting her succinct response.+ 1 moreTue 25 Aug · 11:00 UTC
via f1technical.netHulkenberg reflects on his "scary" opening lap at ZandvoortNico Hulkenberg had a strong performance at the Dutch Grand Prix, finishing in eighth place and securing valuable points for Audi. Despite a chaotic opening lap where his teammate Gabriel Bortoleto spun and dropped positions, Hulkenberg managed to navigate through the field effectively, showcasing the pace of the Audi car. His ability to avoid a collision during Bortoleto's spin was crucial in maintaining the team's competitive standing in the race.
Gabriel Bortoleto, on the other hand, faced challenges after his early spin, which left him with a significant deficit to recover from. He managed to climb back to 13th place by the end of the race. Both drivers' performances contributed to Audi's ongoing success, as they have now scored points in four consecutive races, highlighting the team's progress despite the difficulties faced during the event.
Tue 25 Aug · 07:49 UTCPage 5 of 12