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via F1iRed Bull and Mercedes support FIA's Honda assistance planLaurent Mekies of Red Bull and Toto Wolff of Mercedes have expressed their support for the FIA's initiative to assist Honda in improving its performance in Formula 1. This collaboration aims to help Honda and Aston Martin close the competitive gap to the leading teams.
+ 3 moreWed 16 Sep · 08:11 UTC
via the-race.comAndrea Stella calls for review of VSC rulesMcLaren team boss Andrea Stella has suggested that Formula 1 should consider revising the Virtual Safety Car procedures. His comments follow Lando Norris's unfortunate timing during the Spanish Grand Prix, which raised questions about the fairness of the current rules.
+ 1 moreWed 16 Sep · 07:38 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 star issues Zak Brown apology after getting it badly wrong about Oscar PiastriRomain Grosjean has publicly apologized to Zak Brown after mistakenly misquoting the McLaren CEO regarding Oscar Piastri's performance. Grosjean's initial comments suggested that Brown had criticized Piastri as being slower than his teammate Lando Norris, which caused a stir online. However, Brown's actual remarks indicated that Piastri was competitive but did not achieve the same lap time as Norris during qualifying.
Oscar Piastri, who is currently experiencing a challenging season, sits seventh in the Drivers' standings, significantly trailing Norris. Following a disappointing eighth-place finish at the Spanish Grand Prix, Grosjean quickly retracted his comments and expressed regret for the misunderstanding, emphasizing the importance of fair treatment for drivers within the McLaren team.
Tue 15 Sep · 20:45 UTC
via f1oversteer.comOscar Piastri’s McLaren engineer admits he had an ‘impossible’ problem at the Spanish Grand PrixOscar Piastri had a challenging race at the Spanish Grand Prix, starting with a collision with George Russell that damaged his front-left endplate. Despite qualifying in seventh place, the damage hindered his performance, and McLaren was unable to make necessary repairs during the race. Piastri struggled with overtaking opportunities due to the track's design, ultimately finishing in eighth place while teammate Lando Norris managed to secure third despite facing his own difficulties with pit timing.
Piastri's race engineer, Tom Stallard, noted the difficulties of overtaking and the impact of the damage on Piastri's performance. After the race, Piastri expressed his frustration but also highlighted the importance of learning from the experience. Moving forward, McLaren plans to focus on providing more support to Piastri as he continues to adapt and improve in the upcoming races.
Tue 15 Sep · 19:00 UTC
via F1iPiastri salvages silver ling despite Madrid miseryOscar Piastri faced a difficult race at the Spanish Grand Prix, finishing in eighth place after sustaining front wing damage on the first lap due to contact with George Russell. Starting on hard compound tyres, Piastri found himself stuck in traffic, which hindered his ability to make progress on the tight circuit. The deployment of the Virtual Safety Car further complicated his strategy, as it allowed other drivers to pit for fresh tyres at a crucial moment.
Despite the challenges, Piastri managed to salvage some points and noted that there were positive aspects to take away from the race, particularly during moments when he had clear track ahead. He expressed hope that the data collected would help McLaren improve their setup and strategy for upcoming races, emphasizing the need for a thorough review to address the issues faced during the event.Tue 15 Sep · 16:27 UTC
via Motorsport.comLando Norris lost Madring F1 win because of impossible overtaking – McLarenLando Norris faced challenges in securing a victory at the Spanish Grand Prix due to difficulties in overtaking at the Madring circuit. Despite starting from pole and initially leading the race, Norris lost crucial time during a pit stop caused by a virtual safety car, which left him unable to close the gap to the leaders. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella highlighted that the slow pit stop did not significantly impact the race outcome, as overtaking proved to be nearly impossible on the track.
The Madring circuit recorded only 10 overtakes during the race, the lowest number for the 2026 season, raising concerns about its design. Stella pointed out that the narrowness of Turn 5 made it particularly difficult for drivers to attempt overtakes, suggesting that modifications may be necessary to enhance racing opportunities in future events. Norris's pace advantage was evident, but without the ability to overtake, he could not regain his lead.
Tue 15 Sep · 14:37 UTC
via RacingNews365McLaren announce new 'high performance' multi-year partnershipMcLaren Racing has confirmed a new multi-year partnership with SharkNinja, a product design and technology company. This collaboration will span across all four of McLaren's racing operations, including the Formula 1 Team, IndyCar Team, Hypercar Team, and F1 Academy. The partnership is rooted in a shared commitment to innovation, speed, and precision, which are essential in both racing and consumer product design.
As part of the agreement, SharkNinja will be involved in various projects aimed at fan engagement and content creation, particularly during selected F1 race weekends. Additionally, they will join the McLaren Racing Accelerator Programme to leverage the team's engineering expertise for future product development. McLaren CEO Zak Brown expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the mutual dedication to pushing technological boundaries and enhancing customer experiences.
Tue 15 Sep · 12:24 UTC
via PlanetF1Honda makes progress with Aston Martin engine developmentHonda has achieved a significant breakthrough with its B-spec engine, which is seen as a crucial step in supporting Aston Martin's recovery efforts. This development is expected to enhance the performance of Adrian Newey's designs.
+ 1 moreTue 15 Sep · 11:46 UTC
via thejudge13.comHonda reportedly dismisses F1 engine chief as Aston Martin faces major changeHonda has announced a significant management change in its Formula 1 division, with Tetsushi Kakuda being dismissed from his role overseeing engine development. Yoichiro Fukao is set to take over Kakuda's responsibilities starting October 1, as Honda prepares for the next generation of power units. The restructuring is aimed at accelerating engine development and ensuring a smooth transition to new engineering talent.
This change comes amid a challenging 2026 season for Aston Martin, which has struggled to compete effectively despite receiving upgrades to its Honda power unit. While Honda has confirmed the personnel change, it has not explicitly linked Kakuda's dismissal to the team's performance issues. The relationship between Aston Martin and Honda is under scrutiny, as both entities look to improve competitiveness ahead of the upcoming regulations.
Tue 15 Sep · 10:18 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli's Spanish GP win will still "sting", says James HinchcliffeKimi Antonelli secured his eighth victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season at the Spanish Grand Prix, held on September 15, 2026. His win at the Madring circuit allowed him to extend his championship lead to 81 points over teammate George Russell. The race was notably affected by a virtual safety car that Antonelli capitalized on, allowing him to take a cheaper pit stop compared to Lando Norris, who had started from pole position and initially led the race.
Despite his victory, former IndyCar driver James Hinchcliffe remarked that Antonelli would feel a 'sting' knowing that Norris had the faster car throughout the race. Hinchcliffe highlighted that even successful drivers can feel frustrated when they are not the quickest on the track, suggesting that Antonelli's win was a mix of good fortune and his driving skills. This commentary reflects the competitive nature of Formula 1, where drivers strive not only for victory but also for the title of being the best on the day.Tue 15 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via F1iLando Norris enjoys McLaren Hypercar outing after SpainFollowing a disappointing performance at the Spanish Grand Prix, Lando Norris quickly shifted his focus to a special outing with McLaren. He participated in a rare non-F1 test, exploring Hypercar machinery and expressing interest in future endurance racing opportunities.+ 1 moreTue 15 Sep · 07:17 UTC
via the-race.comBad luck or mistake? What really robbed Norris of Spanish GP winLando Norris was in a strong position to win the Spanish Grand Prix until the timing of a virtual safety car (VSC) severely impacted his race strategy. After Lance Stroll's car stopped on the track, the VSC was deployed just as Norris was past the pit entry, preventing him from making a timely pit stop. This allowed Kimi Antonelli, who was further back, to pit and gain a significant advantage, ultimately leading to Norris finishing in third place behind Antonelli and Max Verstappen.
McLaren is now analyzing the situation to determine if they could have better anticipated the VSC or if they should have made different strategic decisions regarding Norris's pit stop. Despite their strong pace during the race, the team's inability to react effectively to the VSC timing and the subsequent tyre strategy led to a missed opportunity for victory. The team is considering whether they could have predicted the VSC based on the circumstances surrounding Stroll's car and the track conditions.Tue 15 Sep · 04:10 UTC
via f1technical.net"There was nothing I could do'" claims Norris as he reflects on his painful Madring raceLando Norris believes McLaren deserved victory at the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid after a perfectly timed Virtual Safety Car and a slow pit stop turned a dominant-looking race into a frustrating podium finish.
Mon 14 Sep · 23:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMartin Brundle and Nico Rosberg won’t accept McLaren explanation for Oscar Piastri’s drop-offMcLaren has cited Oscar Piastri's driving style as a key factor in his disappointing performance during the 2026 season, where he has only managed two podium finishes in the first 14 races. Team principal Andrea Stella mentioned that Piastri struggles with the MCL40 due to reduced downforce, which has made the car more challenging to handle. This situation contrasts sharply with his successful 2025 season, where he won seven races and was a strong contender for the championship.
Former drivers Martin Brundle and Nico Rosberg have expressed skepticism regarding McLaren's explanation. Brundle emphasized the importance of adaptability in F1, while Rosberg argued that top drivers must be versatile to succeed. Both commentators noted that Piastri's smooth driving style may not be suited to the current car dynamics, which require a more aggressive approach. Meanwhile, Lando Norris's improved performance has shifted the team dynamics, further highlighting Piastri's struggles.Mon 14 Sep · 20:00 UTC
via Formula1.comNorris' Madring misery creates Baku betting valueLando Norris, a prominent driver for McLaren, has recently encountered challenges during the Madring event, which has led to a shift in the betting markets for the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix. His performance has drawn attention, prompting bookmakers to adjust their odds in response to his recent struggles on the track.
As the Azerbaijan Grand Prix approaches, Norris' difficulties have sparked discussions among bettors and analysts regarding his potential as a contender. Despite the setbacks, there remains a belief in his capabilities, and the betting landscape reflects a mix of optimism and caution regarding his chances in the race.
Mon 14 Sep · 18:46 UTC
via AutosportLando Norris completes test in McLaren HypercarLando Norris, the reigning Formula 1 champion, has completed his first full test in the McLaren MCL-HY Le Mans Hypercar. The test took place at the Portimao circuit following the recent Spanish Grand Prix.
+ 1 moreMon 14 Sep · 18:29 UTC
via PlanetF1FIA confirms double Spanish GP punishment; Honda change; Brown receives apology – roundupThe FIA has confirmed a double punishment following the Spanish Grand Prix, where Audi driver Gabriel Bortoleto was warned for moving under braking, and Racing Bulls were fined €200 for Yuki Tsunoda's speeding in the pit lane. This investigation highlights the stewards' commitment to maintaining safety and adherence to regulations during the race.
In other news, Honda has announced a leadership change, promoting Yoichiro Fukao to large project leader after the race. Additionally, Romain Grosjean issued an apology to Zak Brown regarding a misunderstanding about comments made about Oscar Piastri. Lando Norris faced a setback during the race due to a Virtual Safety Car, which altered his strategy, while Ferrari drivers Hamilton and Leclerc are set to participate in a tyre test at Imola.Mon 14 Sep · 18:01 UTC
via Motorsport.comMcLaren reflects on missed victory in Spanish Grand PrixMcLaren expressed disappointment after Lando Norris's pole position at the Spanish Grand Prix was undermined by an ill-timed Virtual Safety Car. The team acknowledged that factors beyond their control contributed to their inability to secure the win despite showing strong pace.+ 1 moreMon 14 Sep · 14:03 UTC
via F1iHonda announces leadership change in F1 power unitHonda Racing has appointed a new project leader for its Formula 1 power unit development programme as part of a strategic overhaul. This decision comes in response to a challenging start to the 2026 season, with the aim of accelerating development ahead of upcoming regulatory changes.+ 1 moreMon 14 Sep · 13:11 UTC
via espn.comHonda replacing engine chief after poor start to '26Honda is making a leadership change in its Formula 1 power unit project, appointing Yoichiro Fukao to replace Tetsushi Kakuda effective October 1, 2026. This decision comes after a disappointing start to the season as Aston Martin's engine supplier, where the team has only managed to score three points and sits near the bottom of the standings.
The change is part of Honda's strategy to enhance its development framework following the introduction of new regulations. The company aims to ensure a smooth transfer of technical expertise to the next generation of engineers, as it seeks to improve performance after a challenging start under the new rules.
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