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via Formula1.comWhy Ocon isn't receiving the new Haas power unit in MonzaHaas is set to debut a significant upgrade package at the Italian Grand Prix, marking their first major update since May. Both drivers, Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon, are optimistic about the new aero upgrades, although only Bearman will benefit from a new Ferrari power unit due to limited availability. The team has opted to run both cars with the new specifications from the start of practice, rather than testing them separately, to avoid logistical challenges and maximize performance at the power-sensitive Monza circuit.
The decision to allocate the upgraded power unit to Bearman, who is currently ahead of Ocon in the championship, reflects the team's strategy to enhance performance in light of recent struggles. Team Principal Ayao Komatsu explained that the choice was also influenced by previous upgrades given to Ocon, aiming to balance performance improvements between the two drivers. Haas hopes these changes will help them recover from a disappointing race in the Netherlands.
Fri 4 Sep · 09:39 UTC
via PlanetF1Ferrari introduces engine upgrades at MonzaFerrari has brought four new components and a second ADUO power unit upgrade to the Monza circuit. Early telemetry indicates improved performance, although the team still trails Mercedes in straight-line speed.
+ 2 moreFri 4 Sep · 08:46 UTC
via f1technical.netBearman hopeful Haas’ major Monza upgrade can reignite 2026 seasonThe Haas team has not released a major upgrade since the Canadian Grand Prix, and Bearman emphasizes the importance of this new package to improve their performance. Despite facing resource limitations and longer turnaround times for upgrades, the team is focused on scoring points at Monza and hopes to replicate their successful second half from the previous season, although the competitive landscape has changed significantly.
Fri 4 Sep · 07:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comCarlos Sainz makes Venice Film Festival appearance ahead of Italian GPCarlos Sainz made a notable appearance at the 83rd Venice Film Festival as a new ambassador for Giorgio Armani's fragrance line. He walked the red carpet in a stylish ivory dinner jacket and was accompanied by his partner, who also showcased a custom dress by the designer. This event comes just ahead of the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, where Sainz hopes to improve his performance after a challenging start to the season with the Williams team.
Heading into the Italian GP, Sainz is currently ranked 16th in the drivers' standings, while his team sits ninth in the constructors' standings. He expressed his fondness for the Monza circuit and acknowledged the difficulties posed by the new regulations, particularly regarding energy management and tyre temperatures. Sainz aims to leverage the lessons learned from previous races to achieve a successful weekend at Monza.
Thu 3 Sep · 15:35 UTC
via Motorsport.comJack Doohan opens up on Michael Schumacher bond and gift that influenced his careerJack Doohan, the reserve driver for Haas F1 Team, shared insights about his bond with Michael Schumacher, highlighting their relationship as neighbors and family friends. He recalled receiving his first go-kart from Schumacher, which played a significant role in his early career in motorsport. Doohan's reflections come as the Italian Grand Prix weekend prepares to honor Schumacher with special tributes, including Ferrari liveries and an honorary lap by Sebastian Vettel in Schumacher's iconic F2002 car.
Doohan expressed that his experiences with Schumacher went beyond the racing world, emphasizing the human side of top athletes. He noted that Schumacher's achievements, including his seven world championships, are inspiring, but it is the personal connection and the normalcy of their interactions that left a lasting impact on him. This perspective shapes Doohan's approach to Formula 1, reminding him that drivers are just regular people with everyday routines.Thu 3 Sep · 14:15 UTCvia f1technical.netKomatsu rejects claims Gene Haas has lost interest in Formula 1Ayao Komatsu, the team principal of Haas, has strongly refuted claims made by former principal Günther Steiner that Gene Haas has lost interest in Formula 1. Komatsu emphasized that Haas has been present at every European race this season, except for the Dutch Grand Prix, and is expected to attend several upcoming races, indicating his continued commitment to the team.
Komatsu characterized Haas as an enthusiastic owner who maintains high expectations for the team's performance. He acknowledged that while Haas's pressure for results can lead to frustration, it also reflects his deep investment in the team's success. Overall, Komatsu's comments suggest that Haas remains actively involved and dedicated to the team's progress in Formula 1.Thu 3 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via f1technical.netVowles hails the early impact of McLaren's former chief operating office at GroveWilliams team principal James Vowles has praised the early contributions of Piers Thynne, who joined the team as Chief Optimisation and Planning Officer after a long tenure at McLaren. Thynne's experience is seen as crucial for Williams as they work to modernize their operations and improve efficiency in manufacturing and resource management, which are essential for their competitive resurgence in Formula 1.
Thynne's appointment is part of a broader restructuring effort under Vowles aimed at addressing the team's historical weaknesses and underinvestment. With the challenges posed by the 2026 regulation changes, Vowles believes that Thynne's expertise will help accelerate the transformation needed for Williams to return to championship contention, emphasizing that improvements in processes and infrastructure are just as important as technical upgrades.Thu 3 Sep · 01:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Carlos Sainz claims hidden reason behind Williams commitmentCarlos Sainz has reaffirmed his commitment to Williams by signing a new multi-year contract, putting to rest any speculation about his future with the team. He highlighted that there are significant developments happening behind the scenes at Williams, which contribute to his optimism for the team's future despite their current struggles in performance under the new regulations. Sainz noted that the team is currently only performing better than Cadillac and expressed a desire to improve in the upcoming season.
Sainz's confidence in the team's management and new projects, including the recent hiring of Michael Manning as Chief Engineer, reinforces his decision to stay. He emphasized the importance of working together to achieve their goals and stated that he did not seriously consider offers from other teams, including Audi, as he prefers to remain loyal during challenging times. Sainz's focus is on making progress and returning to a competitive position in Formula 1.Wed 2 Sep · 07:44 UTC
via grandprix.comHerta, Browning and Aron get Monza FP1 runsDuring the opening practice session at Monza, three reserve drivers will take the wheel for their respective teams as part of the mandatory rookie program. Colton Herta will drive for Cadillac, Luke Browning will replace Alex Albon at Williams, and Paul Aron will take over Pierre Gasly's Alpine. Each driver aims to gather valuable data and experience on the circuit, which is known for its unique demands on energy deployment and low-drag efficiency.
The session is significant for the teams as it allows them to complete their required rookie outings. Herta, Browning, and Aron are all looking to contribute to their teams' performance, with Browning also balancing his role with a Super Formula program. After the session, Aron plans to continue his work by using the insights gained from driving to assist in the simulator, further enhancing the team's setup ahead of the race weekend.
via f1technical.netHow can Williams salvage its fortunes despite its struggles in 2026?Williams Racing is shifting its focus towards the 2027 Formula 1 season as it seeks to recover from a challenging 2026 campaign. Team principal James Vowles highlighted that the team is balancing the development of its current car with preparations for upcoming regulatory changes, including a new chassis that will debut later in 2026. This project aims to foster a new approach to innovation and manufacturing within the team, emphasizing efficiency and measurable gains in performance.
The team recognizes the need to establish a solid foundation for future competitiveness, especially with significant changes in power units and aerodynamics on the horizon. While Williams will continue to introduce performance upgrades to its current car, Vowles noted that these are unlikely to dramatically alter their standings. The focus is on ensuring that lessons learned from the current season will inform the development of their next-generation car, with the new chassis project expected to play a crucial role in this long-term strategy.Wed 2 Sep · 03:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comYuki Tsunoda linked with Haas for 2027 seasonYuki Tsunoda has enhanced his chances of returning to Formula 1 after performing well during an emergency call-up at the Dutch Grand Prix. Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu is considering Tsunoda for a potential seat as he seeks to re-enter the sport.
Tue 1 Sep · 19:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Guenther Steiner praises Liam Lawson's mental toughnessLiam Lawson's recent performance at the Dutch Grand Prix was pivotal for his career in Formula 1. Red Bull acknowledged that he deserved more than a brief stint in the team, highlighting the importance of his comeback.
+ 1 moreTue 1 Sep · 18:00 UTC
via Motorsport WeekCarlos Sainz breaks silence on Audi transfer rumours amid new Williams F1 dealCarlos Sainz has publicly denied rumors linking him to a potential transfer to Audi, stating that he has remained committed to Williams despite the team's struggles in the 2026 season. He emphasized that he values loyalty and does not believe in leaving a team during difficult times, reaffirming his dedication to the Williams project after signing a multi-year contract extension.
Sainz's performance in 2025 included notable podium finishes, but the current season has seen Williams facing challenges, placing them near the back of the midfield. While Sainz's position in the Drivers' Standings is currently low, he remains focused on contributing to the team's improvement rather than seeking immediate success elsewhere.
Tue 1 Sep · 16:34 UTC
via AutosportHaas commits to 2026 season, rules out 2027 switchHaas is set to introduce updates for its VF-26 car as it faces challenges in the 2026 Formula 1 season. Team principal Ayao Komatsu and driver Oliver Bearman acknowledge that they have been outpaced by competitors.
+ 1 moreTue 1 Sep · 13:01 UTC
via Motorsport WeekJames Vowles explains “concern” behind Williams F1 driver re-signingsWilliams F1 Team Principal James Vowles has expressed concerns about retaining drivers Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz, who have both signed multi-year contract extensions. Despite a strong performance in the previous season, where Williams finished fifth in the Constructors' Standings, the team has struggled in 2026, currently sitting in ninth place with only 11 points. Vowles appreciates the loyalty shown by both drivers during this challenging period and highlights their efforts to uplift team morale after their re-signings.
Vowles emphasizes the significance of maintaining a consistent driver line-up for the team's ongoing development and future success. He believes that the commitment from Albon and Sainz reflects a positive outlook for Williams, suggesting that their belief in the team's direction is crucial. As the team heads into the Italian Grand Prix, they are hopeful that the stability provided by their drivers will lead to improved results in the second half of the season.Tue 1 Sep · 12:24 UTC
via the-race.com'Everything was on fire' - Williams's F1 2026 disaster laid bareIn response to their difficulties, Williams is implementing a recovery plan that includes hiring new personnel, updating software systems, and introducing a new lighter chassis at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Vowles emphasized the need for a change in mindset and innovation to regain confidence and improve performance. The team is determined to learn from their failures and push boundaries to ensure future success, aiming to prove that they can turn things around and compete effectively in the coming seasons.
Tue 1 Sep · 11:50 UTC
via CrashStruggling midfield team confirms much-needed Monza F1 upgradesHaas is set to introduce a long-awaited upgrade package at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix, aiming to improve their performance after a disappointing season. The team has struggled since the Canadian Grand Prix, where they last scored significant points, and has only managed to add two more points since then, both from the Monaco race. Audi has been closing in on them in the constructors' standings, intensifying the need for Haas to regain competitiveness.
Team principal Ayao Komatsu expressed the importance of maximizing practice time to evaluate the new upgrades, while driver Esteban Ocon is optimistic about the changes, hoping to leverage recent positive experiences in the car. With a busy race schedule ahead, Haas is focused on pushing forward in the midfield and reclaiming their earlier form.
Tue 1 Sep · 11:19 UTC
via F1iAlbon demands Williams progress after 2026 ‘blip’Alex Albon has expressed his concerns regarding Williams' performance in the 2026 Formula 1 season, highlighting the team's failure to score points in six consecutive races. He insists that the disappointing results should be viewed as a temporary setback and is calling for clear evidence of improvement in the upcoming 2027 season. Albon acknowledges the team's commitment to addressing its issues more seriously this year, which gives him hope for the future.
Despite the challenges faced with the FW48 car, Albon remains optimistic about Williams' potential, citing a history of progression in the team's operational performance. He stresses that simply returning to points-scoring positions is not enough; the team must demonstrate a thorough understanding of the problems that have arisen. Albon's message is clear: he wants 2027 to showcase the team's true capabilities and to prove that 2026 was merely an aberration.
Tue 1 Sep · 07:19 UTC
via Motorsport.comGuenther Steiner: Lewis Hamilton has chance of eighth title if Ferrari makes one callGuenther Steiner, the former Haas team principal, has expressed that Lewis Hamilton still has a chance to win his eighth Formula 1 championship in 2026, but it hinges on Ferrari's support. He suggested that Ferrari should prioritize Hamilton over his teammate Charles Leclerc to enhance his chances against current leader Kimi Antonelli, who has a significant points lead in the standings.
Steiner pointed out that for Hamilton to succeed, Antonelli must falter, and Mercedes needs to continue facing challenges. He believes that the second half of the season will be critical for Hamilton's title aspirations, highlighting the need for strategic decisions from Ferrari to back their most competitive driver.Mon 31 Aug · 17:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comCarlos Sainz to launch first Fifty Five merchandise collection ahead of Madrid F1 raceCarlos Sainz is set to unveil his inaugural merchandise collection, branded as Fifty Five, coinciding with the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid. He has engaged with fans through social media to clarify the nature of his brand, which encompasses various products including cycling gear and clothing, while also hinting at a personal touch in the offerings. Sainz's initiative aims to create a community space for fans through Team Fifty 5, which will facilitate fan interactions and merchandise sales.
The collection will feature exclusive items such as signed posters and cycling jerseys, reflecting Sainz's desire to connect with his supporters. He emphasizes the importance of the Madrid race as a launchpad for his brand, aiming to provide diverse products that cater to the interests of all fans. This venture marks a significant step in Sainz's career, blending his racing identity with personal branding.Mon 31 Aug · 16:48 UTCPage 6 of 14
