MercedesWilliams 
via f1oversteer.comMichael Schumacher documentary producer reveals that Damon Hill refused to ‘participate’The producer of the documentary 'Schumacher 94: The Birth of a Legend' revealed that Damon Hill refused to participate in the film, despite being approached for an interview. The documentary features insights from key figures like Flavio Briatore and Bernie Ecclestone, but Hill's absence was notable as he was a significant rival to Michael Schumacher during the 1994 season.
Producer Jochen Kostler mentioned that while they reached out to various individuals connected to the events of 1994, Hill could not be persuaded to join the project. The documentary highlights Schumacher's first Formula 1 world championship, which he won by a narrow margin over Hill, culminating in a dramatic collision at the Adelaide Grand Prix.
f1oversteer.comTue 6 Oct · 16:00 UTC
via thejudge13.comRosberg reveals the Schumacher shock that left him scared at MercedesNico Rosberg shared his fears about joining Mercedes in 2010 when Michael Schumacher was announced as his teammate. He felt overwhelmed and scared about his future in Formula 1, especially after his father, Keke Rosberg, advised him to leave the team due to concerns stemming from his own experiences managing another driver alongside Schumacher.
Rosberg described the significant difference in status between himself and Schumacher, feeling overlooked during team meetings. Despite the initial challenges, Rosberg's performance in the 2010 season laid the groundwork for his eventual success, culminating in his 2016 world championship victory.
thejudge13.comTue 6 Oct · 14:47 UTC
via CrashLaurent Mekies targets ‘fight for the podium’ but warns Mercedes remains benchmarkLaurent Mekies, Team Principal of Red Bull Racing, expressed optimism about the team's prospects for podium finishes in upcoming races following their recent victory at the Bahrain Grand Prix. Max Verstappen's win marked a significant achievement for Red Bull Powertrains, and Mekies noted that the team has been steadily improving performance throughout the season.
Despite this progress, Mekies acknowledged that Mercedes continues to set the standard in Formula 1, making it difficult for other teams to consistently compete at their level. He highlighted the challenges posed by varying track conditions and expressed hope that the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix will favour Red Bull's performance, particularly in slow-speed corners.
CrashTue 6 Oct · 14:35 UTC
via RacingNews365Williams make third driver change for Singapore Grand Prix weekendWilliams has announced that Victor Martins will take over reserve driver duties for the Singapore Grand Prix, stepping in for Luke Browning who is absent due to commitments in the Super Formula Championship in Japan. This marks Martins' third time serving as reserve driver for Williams this season, having previously fulfilled the role at the Belgian Grand Prix.
Martins, who joined the Williams driver academy in 2025, has gained valuable experience working alongside established drivers like Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz. In addition to his role with Williams, he has competed in Formula 2 and is currently racing in the World Endurance Championship for the Alpine Endurance Team. Martins expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to support the team and further his own development as a driver.
RacingNews365Tue 6 Oct · 13:16 UTC
via grandprix.comWilliams makes lighter chassis the foundation of its 2027 carWilliams Racing has announced that it will retain its lighter chassis for the 2027 Formula 1 season, building on the weight reduction achieved with the FW48 package. Team Principal James Vowles confirmed this strategy, which allows the team to carry ballast and provides engineers with more flexibility in weight distribution.
The decision to carry over the chassis reduces the amount of new work required during the winter and follows a similar approach that led to improved results in the 2025 season. While smaller developments may still occur this year, the primary focus will be on understanding the revised package and preparing for a more competitive performance in 2027.grandprix.comTue 6 Oct · 10:39 UTC
via PlanetF1Where Honda engine is truly losing out to MercedesHonda's chief engineer Shintaro Orihara has admitted that the company's engine power is significantly lacking compared to Mercedes and other competitors, identifying this as a crucial area for improvement ahead of the 2027 Formula 1 season. Despite introducing the Spec 2 engine, Orihara noted that a gap remains, particularly in internal combustion engine performance, which constitutes about 50% of overall engine power.
Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll has expressed confidence in the team's chassis developments but remains uncertain about the engine power situation. He highlighted the need for Honda to enhance its engine capabilities to ensure better competitiveness next year. Stroll is hopeful that both the chassis and engine improvements will lead to a more competitive performance in the upcoming season.
PlanetF1Tue 6 Oct · 09:57 UTC
via Motorsport.comThe mechanisms at play behind Mercedes' difficult Bahrain GP weekendMercedes faced challenges during the Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang, struggling to unlock the potential of their new update package. Despite being satisfied with performance in higher-speed corners, the car did not perform well in slower sections, leading to difficulties for the drivers.
Bradley Lord, the deputy team principal, noted that the combination of the update, track temperature, and surface conditions created issues that affected tyre temperature and overall car handling. The team is currently working to understand these challenges and improve their performance ahead of the next race in Singapore.
Motorsport.comTue 6 Oct · 09:54 UTC
via Formula1.comHow an unexpected battle for P6 in Malaysia fell apartDuring the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, Williams and Haas drivers had a strong start but ultimately failed to secure points. Carlos Sainz, Alex Albon, and Esteban Ocon all made effective tyre choices at the beginning, with Sainz moving from 13th to 6th, Albon from 18th to 7th, and Ocon from 17th to 8th. However, a series of misfortunes, including a spin for Sainz and a gearbox issue for Albon, led to disappointing finishes for the trio.
Ocon, who initially performed well, also struggled after the first Safety Car period and finished outside the points. Sainz expressed frustration over the race's turn of events, citing poor pit stops and the impact of the collision with Bortoleto. Albon echoed similar sentiments, highlighting issues with car performance throughout the weekend. Despite their promising start, the teams left the race without scoring any points.
Formula1.comTue 6 Oct · 09:15 UTC
via gpfans.comTrue cost of Williams F1 revival revealed as losses almost halvedWilliams Grand Prix Engineering reported a revenue of £244 million for 2025, marking a significant increase from £179.8 million in 2024. Despite this growth, the team still faced a post-tax loss of £25.12 million, although this was a notable improvement from the previous year's loss of £49.85 million. The operating loss also decreased significantly, reflecting the team's ongoing investment in its long-term rebuild.
The financial results indicate that Williams is expanding its workforce and infrastructure, with average employee numbers rising by over 21%. The team is investing heavily in research and development, as evidenced by the increase in R&D staff and payroll costs. Team principal James Vowles highlighted the necessity for sustained investment to address decades of underfunding, indicating that the team's challenges cannot be resolved quickly.
gpfans.comTue 6 Oct · 08:57 UTC
via f1oversteer.comMercedes faces challenges with new upgrade packageGeorge Russell has highlighted a critical missing component in Mercedes' recent upgrade package, which was expected to enhance their performance at the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix. The team has faced significant issues with the upgrades, raising concerns about their ongoing competitive struggles.f1oversteer.com+ 2 moreTue 6 Oct · 08:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comAndrea Stella questions McLaren's performance after SepangMcLaren team principal Andrea Stella has expressed concerns over the team's unexpected performance dip during the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Sepang, Malaysia. Stella had anticipated that Oscar Piastri would be significantly faster based on simulations, leaving the team with pressing questions about their current pace.f1oversteer.com+ 1 moreTue 6 Oct · 07:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi Antonelli’s unaired radio reveals Mercedes stopped him from fighting Max Verstappen in MalaysiaKimi Antonelli disclosed that Mercedes prevented him from competing against Max Verstappen during the Bahrain Grand Prix, where he finished second. Verstappen secured a historic victory after overcoming Antonelli, who initially led the race before losing his position.
Mercedes' focus was on the championship, leading to instructions for Antonelli to prioritize his battle with Ferrari drivers rather than Verstappen. Despite his dissatisfaction, Antonelli was reminded by race engineer Peter Bonnington that they were not in a position to risk a fight with Verstappen, especially with teammate George Russell out of the race.f1oversteer.comTue 6 Oct · 07:00 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell to serve grid penalties at Singapore GPGeorge Russell has confirmed he will face two grid penalties due to engine issues, with the first set to take effect at the Singapore Grand Prix. The penalties follow his retirement from the Bahrain Grand Prix caused by a power unit failure.RacingNews365+ 3 moreTue 6 Oct · 06:10 UTC
via the-race.com1 videoMercedes faces upgrade uncertainty ahead of Singapore GPWill Buxton has expressed concerns regarding Mercedes' recent upgrades, suggesting that team principal Toto Wolff fears the changes may have negatively impacted performance. As a result, Mercedes plans to compare its new aerodynamic package with older components during the Singapore Grand Prix.
the-race.comTue 6 Oct · 05:54 UTC
via Motorsport.comKimi Antonelli learns from Hamilton and VerstappenKimi Antonelli, the current Formula 1 championship leader, has shared insights on the valuable lessons he is gaining from racing alongside Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen. The Mercedes driver believes that this experience is crucial in shaping his development as a competitor in the sport.Motorsport.com+ 2 moreMon 5 Oct · 16:55 UTC
via Motorsport.comCan Red Bull now fight for wins everywhere? "It's difficult to be on par with Mercedes consistently"Max Verstappen achieved Red Bull Racing's first victory of the 2026 Formula 1 season at the Malaysian Grand Prix, marking a significant milestone as it was also the team's first win as a power unit manufacturer. Team principal Laurent Mekies expressed optimism about the team's performance, noting their gradual improvement throughout the season after starting over a second behind the frontrunners.
Despite the positive trend, Mekies cautioned that it is still uncertain whether Red Bull can consistently compete for wins at all circuits, as Mercedes has historically been a dominant force. He highlighted the need for the team to adapt to varying conditions and track layouts while remaining focused on extracting more performance from their car in upcoming races.Motorsport.comMon 5 Oct · 14:54 UTC
via the-race.comGeorge Russell to serve engine penalty at Singapore GPMercedes has confirmed that George Russell will take an engine penalty at the Singapore Grand Prix, starting from the back of the grid. This decision follows his retirement during the previous race in Malaysia due to a power unit failure.the-race.com+ 15 moreMon 5 Oct · 14:04 UTC
via Motorsport.comF1 responds to Malaysia start chaos with software changesFormula 1 has implemented interim measures following the chaotic start at the Malaysian Grand Prix, where several cars stalled during the formation lap. The incident has prompted calls for simplification of the sport's complex regulations, particularly with the upcoming 2026 changes.Motorsport.com+ 1 moreMon 5 Oct · 12:20 UTC
via gpfans.com2026 Singapore Grand Prix schedule announcedThe schedule for the 2026 Singapore Grand Prix at the Marina Bay Street Circuit has been released, detailing the race weekend's events. Fans can look forward to a new twist in this iconic night race.gpfans.com+ 1 moreMon 5 Oct · 11:57 UTC
via PlanetF1Russell faces ‘double whammy’ penalty after Mercedes AUDO plan potentially scupperedGeorge Russell is facing a potential double engine penalty following his retirement during the Bahrain Grand Prix. The failure of his Mercedes power unit may disrupt his plans to wait for the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities upgrade, which would have allowed him to take his penalty with an improved engine.
Mercedes has acknowledged the need to investigate the cause of the power unit issue that led to Russell's retirement. With only four internal combustion engine components allowed under the 2026 regulations, Russell could incur penalties that would further hinder his championship aspirations, as he is already significantly behind Kimi Antonelli in the standings.PlanetF1Mon 5 Oct · 10:24 UTC
via newsonf1.comPourchaire wants Mercedes F1 test chanceTheo Pourchaire, the 2023 Formula 2 champion, is currently serving as Mercedes' reserve driver and expressed his desire to test a real Formula 1 car. He has been working extensively in the simulator, often late into the night, and feels that this experience is valuable but wants to gain actual driving time in an F1 car.
Pourchaire stated that he has discussed the importance of testing with the Mercedes team and believes it is crucial for his development. While he is hopeful that he could get behind the wheel before the end of 2026, he acknowledged that discussions are ongoing and that there is a possibility of testing next year.newsonf1.comMon 5 Oct · 05:00 UTC
via f1technical.netWhat led to Williams' double disappointment at Sepang?Williams Racing faced a challenging race at the Bahrain Grand Prix in Sepang, where both drivers initially performed well on intermediate tyres after a rain delay. However, Carlos Sainz's race was compromised by a collision at the first restart, causing him to drop from sixth to 17th place, while Alex Albon retired due to a gearbox failure after struggling with various issues throughout the race.
Despite a strong start, the team's performance deteriorated as the track dried, and they were unable to convert their early advantage into points. Team Principal James Vowles noted the need for improved pace and race execution, as the team shifts its focus towards future developments for the 2027 season.
f1technical.netMon 5 Oct · 00:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comWhy Toto Wolff’s $102,000 IWC watch can survive almost anythingToto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes, showcased his limited-edition IWC watch designed to endure extreme shocks, claiming it can withstand up to 30,000G. This durability is particularly suited for Wolff's passionate reactions during races, which have included slamming headphones and breaking monitors. The watch, priced at $102,000, features advanced technology that protects its movement from significant impacts.
The IWC Big Pilot's Watch Shock Absorber XPL Toto Wolff edition is made from a unique blend of titanium and ceramics, and its specifications were verified by the University of Cambridge's Cavendish Laboratory. With only 100 units available, the watch is not only a luxury item but also a practical accessory for someone in the high-pressure environment of Formula 1.Motorsport.comSun 4 Oct · 19:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi Antonelli learns from Verstappen at Bahrain GPKimi Antonelli, the current Formula 1 championship leader, has shared insights gained from racing alongside Max Verstappen during the Bahrain Grand Prix. Antonelli highlighted the invaluable lessons he is learning from both Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, which he believes will enhance his racing skills.f1oversteer.com+ 2 moreSun 4 Oct · 18:00 UTC