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via gpfans.comThe bizarre reason F1 star George Russell will race in a 60C ‘oven’ at Bahrain Grand PrixGeorge Russell will compete in the Bahrain Grand Prix without a cooling vest, facing extreme temperatures expected to reach 60C inside his Mercedes cockpit. This decision comes as Mercedes reallocates resources due to the constraints of Formula 1's cost cap regulations, which limit team spending to $215 million in 2026.
Russell highlighted the challenges of racing in such heat, recalling his previous experience of dehydration during the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix. He believes that the development of cooling vests should be exempt from the budget cap, arguing that all drivers should have access to this technology to ensure their safety and performance.
Fri 2 Oct · 16:45 UTC
via f1oversteer.comKimi Antonelli’s Sepang ‘data’ just proved Mercedes’ Bahrain GP simulations were horribly wrongMercedes must start from scratch at the 2026 F1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, after Andrea Kimi Antonelli and George Russell’s data proved their simulations ...
Fri 2 Oct · 16:00 UTC
via PlanetF1Revealed: Mercedes takes up 2026 development path abandoned by McLarenMercedes has launched a significant upgrade package at the Bahrain Grand Prix, marking a shift in their development strategy that mirrors a path previously abandoned by McLaren. This upgrade includes a complete redesign of the sidepod, rear corner, and diffuser, aimed at enhancing aerodynamic efficiency and downforce.
The new design features a steeper downwash slope and a narrower bodywork, which is expected to improve airflow to the rear of the car. Additionally, vertical elements have been added to the floor board to optimize the car's performance. The effectiveness of these changes will be evaluated during the race weekend in Malaysia.
Fri 2 Oct · 12:01 UTC
via Sky Sports F1F1 teams adapt to challenging Sepang circuit conditionsMercedes and other teams are adjusting to the demanding surface of the Sepang International Circuit as Formula 1 returns to Malaysia. The circuit, which has not hosted a Grand Prix since 2017, presents unique challenges for drivers and teams alike.
+ 1 moreFri 2 Oct · 11:24 UTC
via Formula1.comMercedes suffer one of the ‘toughest Fridays’ of the seasonMercedes had a challenging start to their weekend in Malaysia, debuting a new upgrade package that did not yield the expected results. George Russell showed promise by finishing second in the first practice session, but both he and Kimi Antonelli struggled in the second session, finishing seventh and eighth respectively due to mistakes and tyre degradation issues.
Russell acknowledged the need for set-up adjustments to improve their performance against competitors like Red Bull and McLaren. Deputy Team Principal Bradley Lord confirmed the difficulties faced during the day, emphasising the importance of analysing data to optimise their new upgrades. Despite the setbacks, Russell remains optimistic about fighting for pole position.
Fri 2 Oct · 11:24 UTC
via RacingNews365George Russell warns of Mercedes struggles in BahrainGeorge Russell has expressed concerns about Mercedes' performance at the Bahrain Grand Prix, stating that the car is 'off the pace' compared to rivals Red Bull and McLaren. Despite a significant upgrade, Russell believes adjustments are necessary to improve competitiveness.
+ 1 moreFri 2 Oct · 10:50 UTC
via CrashMax Verstappen's unique tyre strategy in Bahrain practiceMax Verstappen employed an unusual medium-tyre strategy during Free Practice 2 for the Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. The session saw lap times significantly slower than expected, attributed to the poor track surface.
+ 3 moreFri 2 Oct · 10:26 UTC57
via F1iCharles Leclerc fastest in Bahrain Grand Prix FP2Charles Leclerc of Ferrari recorded the fastest time in the second practice session for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. The session highlighted struggles for the Mercedes team, which failed to match the pace set by Leclerc.
+ 1 moreFri 2 Oct · 09:23 UTC
via PlanetF1Charles Leclerc fastest in Bahrain Grand Prix FP2Charles Leclerc set the fastest time in the second practice session for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, clocking a lap of 1m37.528s. The session remained dry despite a significant threat of rain, with both Mercedes drivers struggling to find pace.+ 8 more
via f1oversteer.comCharles Leclerc sets fastest time in Bahrain FP2Charles Leclerc achieved the fastest lap during the second free practice session for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. Meanwhile, Mercedes struggled to keep pace with the frontrunners.+ 2 moreFri 2 Oct · 09:00 UTC
via newsonf1.comAntonelli considering Monaco moveOct.2 (GMM) Kimi Antonelli could soon join Formula 1’s growing Monaco contingent, with Prince Albert revealing that the Mercedes championship leader is considering moving to the Principality. Antonelli, who was born in Bologna and currently lives in San Marino, moved away from the family home as his Formula 1 career accelerated. Prince Albert revealed the…
via f1oversteer.comMercedes just dealt George Russell a bigger ‘drop off’ blow than Max Verstappen’s pace at SepangDuring Practice 1 of the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, George Russell secured second place but faced significant tyre degradation issues, as confirmed by Mercedes. Max Verstappen dominated the session, finishing 0.383 seconds ahead of Russell, raising concerns for the Mercedes team regarding their performance.
Russell inquired about the tyre situation over the radio, revealing that Mercedes was struggling compared to Red Bull. The team indicated that they were the outliers in terms of tyre performance, which could lead to a challenging race weekend if not addressed. Russell is hoping for rain to potentially alter the tyre dynamics in his favour.Fri 2 Oct · 07:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comMercedes finally brings big upgrade and F1 fans are asking if it's game overMercedes has introduced a significant upgrade package for the W17 ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix, marking the first major changes since May. This package includes seven components that enhance the car's aerodynamics, particularly focusing on the floor and sidepods to improve airflow and downforce.
Team principal Toto Wolff expressed hopes that these upgrades will help the team compete for pole position, especially after facing challenges at previous races. Driver George Russell is also optimistic about the changes, indicating that they may benefit his performance. With a strong lead in the championship, Mercedes aims to maintain its competitive edge as more upgrades are expected later in the season.
Fri 2 Oct · 06:10 UTC
via Motorsport.comMax Verstappen leads opening practice at Bahrain GPMax Verstappen of Red Bull set the fastest time in the first practice session for the Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. He was followed closely by George Russell, marking a competitive start to the event.+ 8 more
via AutosportMercedes introduces new floor, sidepods for F1 Bahrain GPMercedes has revealed significant updates to its car for the Bahrain Grand Prix, including a redesigned floor and new sidepods. These changes are aimed at maintaining their competitive edge in the 2026 Formula 1 season, where they have been performing strongly against rivals like Ferrari, McLaren, and Red Bull.
The updates involve a shift in sidepod geometry and enhancements to the floor design to improve airflow and downforce. George Russell noted the importance of these upgrades, as it has been several months since the last major update. Mercedes will also sport a special teal and black livery in recognition of its title partner, Petronas.
Fri 2 Oct · 04:31 UTC
via RacingNews3652026 Bahrain Grand Prix Free Practice 1 resultsThe Free Practice 1 session for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix took place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. Full results from the session have been released, detailing the performance of all participating teams and drivers.+ 3 moreFri 2 Oct · 03:25 UTC
via racer.comTechnical updates: 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in MalaysiaMercedes is the only Formula 1 team to bring a significant update package to the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, focusing on performance gains. The updates include a completely new floor design with various enhancements, alongside new suspension fairings and tweaks to the rear bodywork to improve aerodynamics.
Other teams are also making updates, with McLaren introducing a circuit-specific engine cover, Alpine enhancing brake cooling components, and Ferrari improving its diffuser. Red Bull and Haas are making minor adjustments, while Williams, Aston Martin, Audi, and Cadillac have not submitted any updates.
Fri 2 Oct · 03:04 UTC
via f1chronicle.comGeorge Russell believes he can challenge Kimi AntonelliGeorge Russell expressed confidence in his ability to compete for the Formula 1 title, stating he is no longer 'lost' in his Mercedes. After reducing Kimi Antonelli's championship lead from 81 points to 66, Russell feels invigorated and ready to take on the challenge.
+ 1 moreThu 1 Oct · 21:33 UTC
via Motorsport.comThe sim rig Max Verstappen swears by ahead of his GT3 race against RossiMax Verstappen is preparing for his upcoming GT World Challenge Europe race against Valentino Rossi, scheduled for October 17 at Portimao. Verstappen will drive the No. 3 Mercedes-AMG GT3, taking over for drivers who are competing in another championship that weekend. He has not driven a GT3 car since the Nurburgring 24 Hours in May, making this a significant return to the track.
To prepare, Verstappen relies on a static sim rig, which he believes allows for faster lap times compared to motion rigs. His setup includes high-end components and is valued at an estimated $25,000 to $35,000. Verstappen's commitment to sim racing is evident, as he logs more hours on his rig than many competitors do in actual GT3 cars, showcasing his dedication to mastering multiple forms of motorsport.Thu 1 Oct · 21:18 UTC
via RacingNews365Oscar Piastri expresses concern over Mercedes upgradeOscar Piastri has voiced his worries regarding Mercedes' recent upgrade to the W17, which he believes could pose a significant threat to rival teams. The McLaren driver noted that George Russell's strong performance in Baku adds to the unease among competitors like Ferrari and Red Bull.+ 1 moreThu 1 Oct · 21:00 UTCPage 1 of 32