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via gpfans.comHonda boss wants to 'make history with Fernando Alonso', he just doesn't know whenAt the recent Dutch Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso showcased his skills by finishing ninth, contributing to Aston Martin's second points finish of the season. This performance was supported by a new Honda power unit, which has been under scrutiny for its competitiveness this year. The team has also implemented aerodynamic upgrades that have positively impacted their performance.
Koji Watanabe, president of Honda Racing Corporation, emphasized the company's ambition to achieve a historic victory with Alonso, although he refrained from specifying a timeline for this goal. He highlighted the importance of Alonso's feedback in their development process and expressed a strong desire for him to re-sign with Aston Martin for the 2027 season.
Wed 26 Aug · 09:57 UTC
via f1oversteer.comHonda president makes major promise to Lawrence Stroll and Aston Martin about 2027 engineHonda's president, Koji Watanabe, has made a commitment to Aston Martin regarding significant improvements to their engine by 2027. Despite recent upgrades, Aston Martin's drivers have expressed dissatisfaction, citing a performance gap of 1.5 seconds per lap compared to Mercedes. Honda is permitted to make multiple upgrades in the coming years, and Watanabe is optimistic about closing the gap to top teams in the standings next season.
Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin's team owner, has a long-term vision that began in 2021, aiming for competitive success. Watanabe has reassured fans of their dedication to improvement and has brought back top engineers to enhance their performance. While he cannot promise championships, he emphasized Honda's goal to win in the future.
Tue 25 Aug · 17:00 UTC
via f1technical.netHow did Budkowski assess his first race as Cadillac's team boss?Cadillac faced challenges during the Dutch Grand Prix, with Sergio Perez finishing in 15th place after starting from the pit lane. Valtteri Bottas was unable to complete the race due to a hydraulic issue, marking his sixth DNF this season. Despite these setbacks, Perez managed to show competitive pace and finished ahead of a rival team, Williams. Team Principal Marcin Budkowski noted the eventful nature of his debut race and highlighted the need for improvements in both pace and reliability moving forward.
Budkowski expressed appreciation for the team's efforts throughout the weekend and acknowledged the strategic difficulties posed by changing conditions. He praised Perez's performance while also expressing disappointment over Bottas' retirement. The team aims to analyze their performance and focus on enhancements as they prepare for the next race.
Tue 25 Aug · 07:30 UTC
via thejudge13.comThe $10 Billion Cadillac F1 Deal Raising New Questions About Mark WalterThe article discusses the scrutiny surrounding Cadillac Formula 1's financial backing, particularly involving TWG Global, Mubadala Capital, and Palantir Technologies. Barbara Bessolo, a technology entrepreneur, has filed a lawsuit alleging intellectual-property theft against several parties, including Michael Andretti, which adds complexity to the situation. The lawsuit's claims remain unproven, but they highlight potential issues within the organizational structure of Cadillac F1 and its connections to broader financial dealings.
Additionally, the article notes that TWG Global has secured a significant $10 billion investment from Mubadala Capital, which has raised questions about the financial stability of Cadillac F1. Despite these concerns, TWG has publicly stated that its motorsport properties are not for sale, and Cadillac's leadership insists that the team's future is secure. The intertwining of Bessolo's lawsuit with the operations of TWG and Andretti Global suggests that the developments surrounding Cadillac F1 will continue to evolve.
Mon 24 Aug · 16:00 UTC
via Formula1.comNorris wins dramatic Dutch Grand Prix as Verstappen crashesLando Norris claimed victory at the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix, marking his second consecutive win of the season. He started from pole position but faced early competition from Kimi Antonelli, who took the lead after a red flag incident caused by Max Verstappen's crash on the first lap. Despite Antonelli's strong performance, Norris regained the lead and maintained it until the finish, crossing the line with a significant margin.
The race featured a dramatic turn of events, including a late Virtual Safety Car that influenced pit strategies. George Russell completed the podium in third place, while Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc followed in fourth and fifth. Several drivers faced penalties and retirements, including Verstappen, who was unable to finish the race due to his crash.
Sun 23 Aug · 15:37 UTC
via grandprix.comHonda engine upgrade fails to meet expectations at ZandvoortHonda's recent engine upgrade, introduced at the Dutch Grand Prix, aimed to improve performance for Aston Martin. However, early feedback indicates that drivability issues have emerged, raising concerns about the upgrade's effectiveness.
via f1technical.netRussell, Leclerc, Hamilton to race with fresh power unit components in ZandvoortThe article discusses the introduction of fresh power unit components by several drivers for the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort, highlighting the significant regulatory changes in the 2026 Formula 1 season. Notably, the removal of the MGU-H has altered the power unit architecture, increasing the importance of the MGU-K and requiring teams to manage their component allocations carefully to avoid penalties.
Aston Martin, Williams, Mercedes, and McLaren are among the teams making updates to their power units, with drivers like George Russell and Charles Leclerc receiving new components without incurring grid penalties. The article emphasizes the strategic implications of these changes as teams navigate the challenges of the new regulations while aiming for competitive performance throughout the season.Sun 23 Aug · 10:59 UTC
via f1oversteer.comLance Stroll criticises Honda upgrade after Dutch GPLance Stroll and Fernando Alonso expressed disappointment following their early exits in Q1 at the Dutch Grand Prix. Both drivers criticized the performance of Honda's new engine upgrade, describing the situation as uncertain.+ 1 moreSun 23 Aug · 10:00 UTC
via f1technical.netF1TECH: The aerodynamic upgrades Aston Martin brought to ZandvoortAston Martin has rolled out a series of aerodynamic upgrades for the AMR26 at the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort, following a significant 16-element upgrade package introduced at the Hungaroring. These updates focus on enhancing both the front wing and rear floor area, with specific modifications aimed at improving local aerodynamic performance and increasing the car's overall aerodynamic load.
The front wing has been adjusted to allow for better aerodynamic balance, particularly important for the circuit's challenging medium- and high-speed corners. Additionally, changes to the diffuser and the introduction of a new floor fence are designed to optimize airflow beneath the car. These developments reflect Aston Martin's ongoing commitment to refining their aerodynamic strategy and maximizing performance as they adapt to varying track conditions.Sun 23 Aug · 09:44 UTCvia f1technical.netAston Martin offers its first assessment of the upgraded Honda power unitAston Martin faced a challenging qualifying session at the Dutch Grand Prix, with both Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll unable to advance beyond Q1. Despite their disappointing positions, the team expressed optimism about the improvements made with their upgraded Honda power unit and overall package, noting that they are closer to the leading teams than in previous races. Alonso's qualifying time was 1:13.650, while Stroll's was 1:13.818, placing them 18th and 19th respectively.
Team Principal Adrian Newey highlighted the progress in chassis and aerodynamic performance but acknowledged that driveability remains a key issue. Both drivers reported that while their qualifying pace was lacking, they believe their race pace could be more competitive. The team aims to address the driveability concerns to unlock further performance as they head into the race.Sun 23 Aug · 06:54 UTC
via gpfans.comFernando Alonso praises Aston Martin upgrades but warnsLance Stroll and Fernando Alonso expressed disappointment with Honda's new power unit following their early exit in qualifying at the Dutch Grand Prix. Stroll described the upgrade as a 'lottery' and stated it was 'not nearly enough' to improve their performance.+ 1 moreSat 22 Aug · 19:15 UTC
via grandprix.comAlonso to meet with owner Stroll for contract talksFernando Alonso is preparing for contract discussions with Aston Martin's owner, Lawrence Stroll, as he evaluates his future with the team. The talks come amid challenges faced by Aston Martin's newly introduced Honda-powered package, which encountered drivability issues during the recent Sprint qualifying at Zandvoort, where Alonso finished last. Despite these setbacks, Alonso acknowledges that the new engine represents progress, although it requires further refinement and understanding.
The ongoing discussions about Alonso's contract are particularly significant as Aston Martin has recently altered its ownership structure. Alonso, who had previously suggested a decision would be made in the summer, now states that there is no immediate deadline. He plans to continue discussions with Stroll and potentially with Adrian Newey at the factory, as the team works to address the technical challenges presented by the new power unit.
via grandprix.comBottas insists he has Cadillac ticket for 2027Valtteri Bottas has reaffirmed his commitment to Cadillac for the 2027 Formula 1 season, dismissing speculation about a potential replacement by Colton Herta. Despite turning 37 soon, Bottas feels his physical condition and experience are assets that will help him continue his career effectively. He emphasized that he has a secure position and is focused on improving the team's performance, which has yet to score points in its debut season.
Bottas provided a candid assessment of Cadillac's current competitive level, indicating that without resolving reliability issues, the team is likely to finish in the lower ranks of the standings. He also expressed surprise at the mid-season change in team leadership with the appointment of Marcin Budkowski, suggesting that such swift changes are characteristic of American business practices. Bottas remains optimistic about the future, emphasizing the need for consistent race finishes.
via Motorsport.comGuenther Steiner urges Cadillac to abandon 2026 F1 car developmentGuenther Steiner has advised Cadillac to cease development of its 2026 Formula 1 car and redirect efforts towards the 2027 model. This recommendation comes as the team faces significant challenges, including reliability issues, and currently holds the last position in the constructors' standings without any points. Steiner's comments reflect a broader concern about the team's initial expectations upon entering the championship with a lineup featuring experienced drivers Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas.
Following a leadership change with Marcin Budkowski replacing Graeme Lowdon as team principal, Steiner anticipates that the focus will shift entirely to the 2027 car. He criticized the management for underestimating the difficulties of competing in Formula 1, suggesting that they should abandon any further development for the current season and concentrate on future improvements.
Sat 22 Aug · 09:58 UTC
via the-race.comWhat ruined Honda's big F1 upgrade engine debutHonda's upgraded spec 2 engine had a disappointing debut during the sprint qualifying at the Dutch Grand Prix, with Aston Martin drivers Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso failing to progress past SQ1. Stroll finished 19th and Alonso 22nd, with Alonso experiencing a lock-up and reporting vibrations that affected his performance. The failure of Alonso's rear wing active aero contributed to a significant speed deficit, which could have made a difference in his qualifying time.
Despite the setbacks, Alonso and the team remain optimistic about the engine's potential. They acknowledge that there are still challenges to address regarding the driveability of the power unit under the new regulations. Honda's engineering team is actively working on solutions, and Alonso believes there is room for improvement as they prepare for future sessions.
Fri 21 Aug · 18:45 UTC
via gpfans.comAlonso cites Honda engine issue after Zandvoort strugglesFernando Alonso experienced significant difficulties during the F1 Sprint qualifying at the Dutch Grand Prix. Aston Martin confirmed that a problem with the Honda power unit contributed to Alonso's struggles on track.+ 2 moreFri 21 Aug · 17:45 UTC
via Motorsport.comAlonso calls for more work on Honda's new F1 engineAston Martin driver Fernando Alonso has reported difficulties with Honda's new engine during sprint qualifying at Zandvoort. He emphasized the need for further optimization to improve the car's driveability.+ 1 moreFri 21 Aug · 16:59 UTC
via Motorsport WeekBottas comments on Cadillac's leadership changeCadillac F1 Team has announced a leadership change, parting ways with team principal Graeme Lowdon after just 11 races. Driver Valtteri Bottas commented that the decision was necessary, while new team boss Marcin Budkowski faces the challenge of improving the team's performance.
+ 4 moreThu 20 Aug · 12:32 UTC
via Motorsport.comValtteri Bottas suffers parking blunder in Amelia Dimoldenberg's "Passenger Princess"Valtteri Bottas participated in an episode of Amelia Dimoldenberg's YouTube series 'Passenger Princess,' where he showcased his driving skills alongside the host. The filming took place during the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix weekend, and the two engaged in practicing emergency stops and parallel parking. Bottas expressed discomfort in the passenger seat, preferring to be in control while driving. He humorously rated his own parking attempt poorly after hitting a traffic cone, while Dimoldenberg successfully parked without incident, earning praise from Bottas.
Throughout the episode, Bottas shared personal anecdotes, including details about his nude charity calendar and his pet reindeer. The interaction was well-received by fans, who appreciated Bottas's personality and the light-hearted nature of the episode. Other Formula 1 drivers have also featured on the show, but Bottas's episode stood out for its engaging and humorous moments.Thu 20 Aug · 12:28 UTC
via RacingNews365New Cadillac boss addresses Ferrari partnership as 'discussions' plannedCadillac F1 Team has appointed Marcin Budkowski as its new team principal, following the unexpected departure of Graeme Lowdon. Budkowski, who has extensive experience in Formula 1, plans to engage in discussions with partners, including Ferrari, during the Dutch Grand Prix weekend. He expressed contentment with the current power unit supplied by Ferrari but also highlighted Cadillac's ambition to eventually develop its own engine.
Budkowski's transition to team principal marks his first leadership role in F1 after a stint as a TV pundit. He aims to understand the future direction of the team, particularly concerning engine regulations, as Cadillac seeks to establish itself more firmly in the sport. The leadership change comes at a crucial time as the team prepares for its ongoing development and competitive strategy.
Thu 20 Aug · 10:00 UTCPage 8 of 13