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via Motorsport.comRob Smedley explains Peter Bonnington's key role in Kimi Antonelli's F1 successRob Smedley has highlighted the significant role of Peter Bonnington in Kimi Antonelli's impressive performance during the 2026 Formula 1 season. Antonelli, who has become the youngest driver to lead the championship standings, has achieved back-to-back victories at the Chinese and Japanese Grands Prix. Currently, he holds an 81-point lead over his Mercedes teammate George Russell, showcasing his dominance in the series. Smedley acknowledges Bonnington's contributions as Antonelli's race engineer, emphasizing that while Bonnington provides crucial support, it is Antonelli who must deliver results on race day.
Antonelli himself has expressed gratitude for working with Bonnington, recognizing the engineer's extensive experience with legendary drivers like Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton. He appreciates the guidance Bonnington offers as he navigates new challenges in his racing career. Smedley and co-host Otmar Szafnauer also discussed the importance of communication between Antonelli and Bonnington, noting that Antonelli's feedback is vital for optimizing performance. Overall, the collaboration between Antonelli and Bonnington is seen as a key factor in Antonelli's successful title charge.
Sat 19 Sep · 12:40 UTC
via PlanetF1Mercedes confirms W17 upgrade for Bahrain Grand PrixMercedes has announced that its next major upgrade for the W17 will be deployed at the Bahrain Grand Prix. Trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin stated that the team is aiming to enhance its performance and regain competitiveness in the 2026 season.
+ 3 moreSat 19 Sep · 10:27 UTC
via RacingNews365Charles Leclerc wagers Mercedes bet after 'vicious circle' observationCharles Leclerc has highlighted the ongoing challenges Ferrari faces with its engine performance, particularly in comparison to Mercedes. He described a 'vicious circle' where the lack of power from Ferrari's engine limits their ability to deploy power effectively, especially at the end of long straights. Despite this, Ferrari remains a close competitor in the championship as they work to resolve these issues.
Leclerc also mentioned the introduction of an ADUO-boosted engine during the Italian Grand Prix, expressing optimism that it has not sustained critical damage following a crash. However, he acknowledged that if the engine is damaged, he would need to take an engine penalty to introduce new parts into his pool before the season concludes.
Sat 19 Sep · 10:20 UTC
via gpfans.comToto Wolff reveals details of Max Verstappen meetingToto Wolff recently addressed the speculation surrounding his meeting with Max Verstappen, which took place in Sardinia. The photos from this meeting led to rumors about Verstappen potentially leaving Red Bull for Mercedes. However, these rumors were put to rest when Red Bull confirmed that Verstappen has signed a contract extension that will keep him with the team until 2030.
In an interview, Wolff mentioned that the social media frenzy surrounding the photos was unintended and highlighted the challenges of privacy in today's digital age. He also confirmed that George Russell's contract with Mercedes has been finalized, although the team has not yet made a formal announcement regarding this.
Sat 19 Sep · 08:45 UTC
via Motorsport.comMercedes plans upgrades for Malaysia Grand PrixMercedes is set to introduce significant upgrades to its car at the upcoming Malaysian Grand Prix. The team aims to improve its qualifying performance after experiencing a drought of pole positions in recent races.+ 3 moreSat 19 Sep · 08:05 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLewis Hamilton ‘cherished’ what Ferrari mechanics did for him before he even joined the teamLewis Hamilton expressed his appreciation for the support he received from Ferrari mechanics during the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix, even while he was still a Mercedes driver. After finishing third in the race, he noted the absence of his own team members who were occupied with recovering George Russell's car, leading to Ferrari mechanics celebrating his achievement instead. This moment made Hamilton feel a connection with Ferrari, which he described as feeling like 'his team' for that weekend.
Hamilton signed a contract to race for Ferrari starting in 2025, having always dreamed of driving for the iconic team. His long and successful tenure with Mercedes included 246 races and six world championships, but he felt a move to Ferrari was necessary as Mercedes struggled in the new ground-effect era. Hamilton acknowledged that not racing for Ferrari would have been a significant regret, especially as he approaches retirement.
Sat 19 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Max Verstappen comments on Red Bull-Mercedes gapMax Verstappen has commented on the differences between Red Bull's power unit and that of Mercedes, noting the challenges in understanding the performance gap. He emphasized that the two teams operate under different conditions, leading to varying results.+ 1 moreSat 19 Sep · 05:20 UTC
via racer.comNo risk of Antonelli 'losing the plot' despite F1 points advantage - WolffKimi Antonelli currently holds an 81-point lead in the Formula 1 drivers' championship after winning consecutive races in Monza and Madrid. Despite this significant advantage, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff reassures that Antonelli remains focused and grounded, emphasizing his maturity and ability to compartmentalize racing from external pressures. Wolff highlights the importance of maintaining a supportive environment for Antonelli as he navigates the challenges of being a championship leader.
Antonelli himself credits his success to the strong support from his family, particularly his father, who helps keep him grounded. He expresses a desire to continue his straightforward approach to racing, focusing on doing his best without getting distracted by championship standings. Antonelli's mindset reflects a commitment to performance over pressure, aiming to enjoy the racing experience while striving for success.
via f1oversteer.comChristian Horner's Alpine takeover blocked by RenaultChristian Horner's attempt to acquire the Alpine Formula 1 team has been thwarted. The team is reportedly set to announce a buyer who is not affiliated with Formula 1.+ 1 moreFri 18 Sep · 15:00 UTC
via F1iNico Rosberg advises Kimi Antonelli on title challengeNico Rosberg has identified Kimi Antonelli's biggest challenge in the Formula 1 title race as being his own mindset. The former world champion believes that Antonelli's ability to manage his mental state will be crucial in securing his first world title.
+ 4 moreFri 18 Sep · 12:21 UTC
via Motorsport.comMercedes' coded messages aided Antonelli's VSC strategyMercedes has disclosed how its coded radio messages aided Kimi Antonelli during the Spanish Grand Prix. The team's engineering director explained that this strategy was crucial in preparing drivers for critical race situations.+ 1 moreFri 18 Sep · 11:49 UTC
via PlanetF1Ferrari confirms focus on 2026 car developmentFerrari has stated it will not shift its development focus to the 2027 Formula 1 car, emphasising its commitment to the 2026 season. The team indicated that approximately 80 per cent of the 2026 car will carry over from its current design.+ 1 moreFri 18 Sep · 09:38 UTC
via f1oversteer.comSzafnauer discusses Hamilton's psychological tacticsOtmar Szafnauer has revealed that Lewis Hamilton employed psychological tactics to unsettle his former teammate Nico Rosberg. These strategies included methods reminiscent of those used by Michael Schumacher to gain a competitive edge.+ 2 moreFri 18 Sep · 08:30 UTC
via PlanetF1Kimi Antonelli hints at potential Ferrari futureKimi Antonelli has acknowledged the possibility of joining Ferrari in the future but indicated that such a move is not imminent. He also mentioned the loyalty factor in his current commitments.+ 1 moreFri 18 Sep · 08:02 UTC
via gpfans.comToto Wolff acknowledges George Russell's title hopes fadingMercedes team principal Toto Wolff has expressed support for George Russell amid his difficult season. The team has made decisions that suggest a diminishing confidence in Russell's chances for the championship.+ 2 moreFri 18 Sep · 07:58 UTC
via RacingNews365Kimi Antonelli approaches Sebastian Vettel's recordKimi Antonelli has been recognized for his strong performance in the 2026 Formula 1 season, positioning himself as a title contender with Mercedes. Notable figures in the sport, including Lando Norris and Otmar Szafnauer, have commended his abilities and the decision by Toto Wolff to bring him on board.+ 1 moreFri 18 Sep · 07:00 UTC
via gpfans.comF1 News Today: Lewis Hamilton releases statement as Mercedes comeback confirmedLewis Hamilton has publicly addressed rumors suggesting he is attempting to replace personnel within Ferrari, as both he and the team face challenges this season. Hamilton and Ferrari have been viewed as significant competitors to Mercedes and Kimi Antonelli, who has had a standout season with eight race wins, positioning him for a potential championship title in just his second year in Formula 1.
In other news, Mike Elliott has been appointed as the new chief technical officer for Alpine, bringing over two decades of experience in the sport. Meanwhile, former F1 team owner Gerard Lopez is facing forgery charges, and Audi is contemplating a minority stake sale in its newly acquired F1 team. Additionally, four-time champion Sebastian Vettel is set to make a racing comeback in 2027.Fri 18 Sep · 06:30 UTC
via RacingNews365Lewis Hamilton makes Ferrari 'silver bullet' claim in Mercedes title chaseLewis Hamilton has expressed skepticism regarding Ferrari's recent engine upgrade, suggesting it won't bring them to the same competitive level as Mercedes. The upgrade, which focuses on turbo efficiency, was introduced at the Italian Grand Prix, but Hamilton believes it still lacks the necessary performance boost to close the gap. He highlighted that while Ferrari showed improvements, they are not yet at the point of having a 'silver bullet' solution.
As Hamilton's title hopes diminish, currently sitting 101 points behind Kimi Antonelli, he stresses the importance of Mercedes concentrating on their own performance. He acknowledges the need for consistency and execution during race weekends, rather than focusing on Ferrari's advancements. Hamilton remains optimistic about Mercedes' progress and aims to capitalize on any mistakes made by their competitors.Fri 18 Sep · 06:10 UTC
via RacingNews365Norris and Verstappen praise Antonelli's performanceLando Norris and Max Verstappen have commended Andrea Kimi Antonelli for his impressive performance during the 2026 Formula 1 season. Both drivers noted that Antonelli is excelling against a more experienced teammate, showcasing his potential in the sport.+ 2 moreFri 18 Sep · 04:30 UTC
via gpfans.comMercedes star makes F1 comeback as Alpine complete massive signingAlpine has announced the appointment of Mike Elliott as their new chief technical officer, marking his return to Formula 1 after a brief hiatus. With 23 years of experience in the sport, Elliott previously held significant roles at McLaren, Renault, and Mercedes, where he served as technical director until 2023. His hiring is seen as a strategic move to enhance Alpine's technical capabilities as they strive to improve their on-track performance and close the gap to the top teams.
Elliott's track record includes contributions to eight constructors' and eight drivers' championships during his tenure at Mercedes. His departure from the team was marked by gratitude from both Elliott and team principal Toto Wolff, who acknowledged his intelligence and team spirit. Elliott's new role at Alpine will involve overseeing technical and engineering functions at their Enstone factory, as the team looks to build on recent improvements.Thu 17 Sep · 19:55 UTCPage 7 of 35
