News1269 stories
RSS ↗
via Motorsport.comWhy Mercedes thought Max Verstappen was "on some sort of massive bungee cord" in Azerbaijan GPDuring the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, George Russell initially created a significant lead over Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar, but the deployment of a safety car changed the race dynamics. After the safety car, Verstappen managed to close the gap and challenged Russell, leading to a nail-biting finish where only 0.196 seconds separated them at the line.
Mercedes deputy team principal Bradley Lord remarked on Verstappen's ability to catch up, likening it to being on a 'massive bungee cord'. Despite Russell's superior speed in the second sector, Verstappen's straight-line speed allowed him to stay close. The race highlighted the intense competition and strategic nuances of Formula 1, with Russell managing to maintain his lead despite the pressure.
Mon 28 Sep · 16:30 UTC
via Formula1.comPerez reflects on 'one of my best weekends'Sergio Perez expressed satisfaction with his performance during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, calling it one of his best weekends despite finishing 14th and missing out on points for Cadillac. He highlighted his strong practice sessions but faced challenges in qualifying, which resulted in a grid penalty that hindered his race position.
Despite the struggles, Perez managed to stay competitive with midfield runners and noted the need for improvements in Cadillac's car performance. He acknowledged that the team has not planned any major upgrades for the remainder of the season but remains optimistic about operational improvements and pushing the team forward as they prepare for 2027.
Mon 28 Sep · 15:57 UTC
via thejudge13.comVerstappen warns Mercedes upgrade could change Red Bull’s picture againMax Verstappen expressed caution regarding Red Bull's competitive position following their recent success at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Despite finishing on the podium alongside teammate Isack Hadjar, Verstappen warned that Mercedes' upcoming upgrades could shift the competitive landscape, making it difficult for Red Bull to maintain their advantage.
Verstappen acknowledged that while the RB22 showed improved balance in Baku, there are still underlying issues that need addressing. He emphasised the importance of maximising opportunities each weekend and highlighted the need for ongoing development to ensure Red Bull remains competitive against rivals like Mercedes.
Mon 28 Sep · 15:07 UTC
via Motorsport WeekValtteri Bottas cites computer glitch for Baku crashValtteri Bottas has attributed his crash during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix to a 'big super-clip' that caused a computer glitch in his car. He has called for Cadillac to investigate the issue, which occurred in the final stages of the race.
+ 2 moreMon 28 Sep · 14:00 UTC
via Formula1.com'Less pressure on me than there is him' – Russell on titleGeorge Russell expressed that he feels less pressure in the ongoing Drivers' Championship compared to his teammate Kimi Antonelli. After winning the Grand Prix in Baku, Russell reduced Antonelli's lead to 66 points, having previously trailed by 81 points. Antonelli's crash during qualifying significantly impacted his performance, allowing Russell to capitalize on the situation and secure a crucial victory.
Russell reflected on his recent form, stating that he did not consider himself a contender for the title until now. He noted that despite a challenging start to the season, his performance has improved significantly. The article draws parallels to last season's championship battle, suggesting that Russell's current deficit is not insurmountable, especially if he continues to perform well.Mon 28 Sep · 13:02 UTC
via PlanetF1Valtteri Bottas explains Azerbaijan Grand Prix strugglesValtteri Bottas has shared his thoughts on his disappointing performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, attributing it to damper degradation affecting his Cadillac's ride quality. He noted that the car 'got a bit confused,' which contributed to his retirement from the race.
+ 1 moreMon 28 Sep · 11:32 UTC
via f1technical.net"There was little opportunity to relax at any stage of the race," claims Mercedes ...George Russell secured a commanding victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, converting his pole position into a win despite facing pressure from Max Verstappen in the closing laps. The race featured two Safety Car periods that challenged Russell's lead, but he managed to hold on for the win, marking an important return to the top step of the podium for him and Mercedes.
Kimi Antonelli also had a notable performance, recovering from a difficult qualifying session that left him in P16. He climbed through the field to finish fifth, showcasing his determination and skill. Mercedes Trackside Engineering Director Andrew Shovlin praised both drivers for their performances, highlighting the team's strong pace throughout the weekend and their ability to maximize opportunities during the race.
Mon 28 Sep · 11:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comSebastian Vettel hints at possible F1 returnSebastian Vettel has suggested that he may consider a return to Formula 1 in the future, although he is not currently pursuing opportunities within the sport. The four-time champion clarified that he is not actively seeking roles with any teams at this time.+ 1 moreMon 28 Sep · 10:30 UTC
via RaceFansRed Bull denies Isack Hadjar chance to overtake VerstappenRed Bull Racing instructed Isack Hadjar not to attempt an overtake on his teammate Max Verstappen during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. This communication was made through an unbroadcast message, leaving viewers unaware of the team orders in play.
+ 2 moreMon 28 Sep · 09:52 UTC
via F1iMekies defends Red Bull’s no-orders approach in BakuRed Bull Racing narrowly missed its first victory of the 2026 season at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing with Max Verstappen in second place and Isack Hadjar in third. Team principal Laurent Mekies defended the decision to maintain the running order of the drivers, believing it offered the best chance to capitalize on a potential late-race safety car, despite Hadjar showing greater pace at times during the race.
Mekies highlighted the significant improvement in Red Bull's competitiveness, noting that both drivers performed exceptionally well throughout the weekend. He expressed pride in the team's progress, stating that they had closed the gap to their rivals and were now capable of competing with Mercedes. The result in Baku was seen as a turning point for Red Bull, showcasing their enhanced performance and teamwork.
Mon 28 Sep · 09:51 UTC
via Formula1.comLeclerc calls for Ferrari upgrades after Azerbaijan GPCharles Leclerc has expressed concern over Ferrari's performance, stating they were 'quite far off' the pace of Mercedes and Red Bull during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur has promised that upgrades for the SF-26 will be introduced soon to address the team's competitive deficit.+ 4 moreMon 28 Sep · 09:26 UTC
via gpfans.comIsack Hadjar's wrist injury update from Red BullRed Bull team principal Laurent Mekies provided an update on Isack Hadjar's wrist injury following his return to racing at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Mekies confirmed that Hadjar's condition is improving after the 51-lap event.
+ 1 moreMon 28 Sep · 07:45 UTC
via F1iLeclerc urges Ferrari to react to Red Bull and McLaren surgeCharles Leclerc expressed concern over Ferrari's performance after finishing fourth in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, highlighting that the team's SF-26 lacked the necessary pace to compete with Red Bull and McLaren. He noted that rivals had made significant upgrades, while Ferrari had not, which put them at a disadvantage.
Leclerc acknowledged that the development gap was becoming increasingly urgent, as every upgrade must count due to budget caps and testing restrictions. He confirmed that Ferrari has developments planned but was cautious about their potential impact, stressing the need for the team to respond quickly to regain lost ground.Mon 28 Sep · 07:12 UTC
via PlanetF1Verstappen criticises F1's Middle East race plansMax Verstappen has expressed his concerns regarding Formula 1's plans to hold races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, citing safety issues due to the ongoing conflict in the region. Verstappen believes that contractual obligations should not take precedence over the safety of participants and fans.+ 4 moreMon 28 Sep · 07:07 UTC
via f1technical.net"It was undoubtedly his best race with us so far," claims Mekies as he hails Red ...Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies commended the team's performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, describing it as their best weekend of the season. Max Verstappen recovered from an eighth-place start to finish second, while Isack Hadjar, returning from injury, secured third place, marking a significant turnaround for the team after earlier struggles this season.
Mekies highlighted the progress made by Red Bull, noting their competitiveness against Mercedes. He praised both drivers for their teamwork and performance, particularly emphasizing Hadjar's impressive return. The double podium reflects a major improvement for Red Bull, showcasing the effectiveness of their recent upgrades and the collective effort of the team.Mon 28 Sep · 07:00 UTC
via gpfans.comMax Verstappen F1 nightmare as Red Bull boss reveals 'huge problem'Max Verstappen has raised concerns about his car's performance, describing it as 'degrading' during races. Red Bull's leadership, including Laurent Mekies and Pierre Wache, have confirmed these issues, with Wache admitting he lacks confidence in a full fix before the next season. The team is shifting focus to 2027, marking the upgrade for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as their last significant package for the year.
Despite these challenges, Red Bull managed to secure a double podium in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with Verstappen finishing second, just behind George Russell. This result allowed Red Bull to close the gap to McLaren in the constructors' championship, reducing their deficit from 76 points to 43 points. However, the team acknowledges that significant work remains to be done to improve their car's performance.Mon 28 Sep · 06:57 UTC
via RacingNews365Red Bull and Verstappen disagree on grid penalty outcomeMax Verstappen has indicated that he expects a grid penalty to be forthcoming, while Red Bull Racing's Laurent Mekies has expressed uncertainty regarding this potential outcome. The differing views highlight a lack of consensus within the team about the implications of recent incidents.
Mon 28 Sep · 05:20 UTC
via gpfans.comKimi Antonelli suffers car damage at Azerbaijan Grand PrixKimi Antonelli revealed that he experienced significant damage to his car during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which hindered his performance. The Mercedes driver attributed his crash in qualifying to the wall, impacting his chances of a strong finish in the race.Sun 27 Sep · 19:45 UTC
via gpfans.comRalf Schumacher criticises Christian Horner's remarksRalf Schumacher has condemned Christian Horner's comments about former Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko, calling them 'appalling'. Horner's recent memoir includes critical insights regarding Marko and Max Verstappen's early career at Red Bull.+ 1 moreSun 27 Sep · 18:55 UTC
via Formula1.comIsack Hadjar earns podium in Baku after injury layoffIsack Hadjar secured a podium finish at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, marking a successful return after a six-week injury absence. Red Bull's Laurent Mekies praised Hadjar for his speed, restraint, and tactical awareness during the race.+ 2 moreSun 27 Sep · 18:20 UTCPage 6 of 64