This is Formula 1

🚨BREAKING| Aston Martin is looking for a new team principal: — Aston Martin is reportedly seeking a new team principal to navigate the team out of its current struggles. The 2026 World Championship has been challenging, with the team experiencing four retirements in the first two GPs. The AMR26 has not met expectations, and the Honda power unit has been underperforming, raising safety concerns. — Fernando Alonso's retirement in Shanghai highlighted these issues. Speaking to media, Alonso revealed: “I couldn't feel my hands and feet anymore.” — The appointment of Adrian Newey as team principal in November 2025 was met with skepticism due to his lack of experience in managing a team. Despite his design brilliance, the role involves political aspects that Newey reportedly dislikes. — Antonio Lobato, a colleague historically close to Alonso, shared insights on the situation. Speaking to media, Lobato remarked: “There is a lot of tension and a lot of nervousness in Aston Martin. At the moment there is no leadership and I think a new team principal will arrive soon. They're looking for it. They've had three in the last three years, and Newey isn't playing the team principal role.” “Besides, he shouldn't be in that role. For this reason, they will have to find someone to cover it, who is the face of the team, defends it, deals with the media, faces the other teams and interacts with the FIA and the FOM.” — The search for a new team principal is crucial for Aston Martin to regain competitiveness. The team's current predicament underscores the need for experienced leadership to handle the complexities of Formula 1. #astonmartinf1 🇬🇧 #f12026 VIA: [formulapassion]

🚨| Briatore shrugs off Mercedes stake concerns: '25% is a passenger' — Flavio Briatore suggested that a potential Mercedes stake in Alpine would not impact the team's internal dynamics. Speaking to media, Briatore explained: “Normally one company, 75 per cent decide and the 25 per cent is a passenger, and this is the reality.” — The Italian manager confirmed that the 24% stake currently held by Otro Capital has attracted interest from several potential buyers, with ongoing negotiations involving Mercedes. Briatore clarified: “Red Bull already is a pioneer in this in the last 10 years or 15 years, whatever. Like I tell you, Mercedes, one group is looking to buy Otro's 24 per cent.” — Briatore emphasized that discussions are taking place directly with Mercedes rather than Toto Wolff personally, and noted that there are three or four potential parties interested in acquiring the shares. — Current regulations from the FIA and Formula One Management do not explicitly prevent an individual or entity from holding interests in more than one team. However, such arrangements are only permitted as long as they do not create a competitive advantage or allow the sharing of sensitive information between competitors. — Concerns can emerge if those boundaries become blurred. Access to confidential technical data, the ability to influence strategic decisions across multiple teams, or potential involvement in the political balance of the sport are all scenarios that could raise questions about fairness and governance within the championship. — Shared ownership structures are not unfamiliar in Formula 1. The relationship between Red Bull and Racing Bulls, referenced by Briatore, is one of the most prominent examples, even though the connection between the two teams has frequently attracted scrutiny within the paddock. #mercedesamgf1 🇩🇪 #alpinef1 🇫🇷 VIA: [gpblog]

🚨| How F1 could exploit the April break to solve two problems at once: — Formula 1 faces a month-long break after the cancellation of the Saudi Arabian and Bahrain Grands Prix due to ongoing Middle East conflicts. This unexpected pause offers an opportunity for teams to address issues exposed in the season's opening races. — The break could be utilized for additional testing sessions, allowing teams to better understand the new regulations and car designs. This would help drivers like Max Verstappen, who have expressed dissatisfaction with the current racing style, to adapt and improve performance. — The geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have led to missile and drone attacks, affecting areas near Abu Dhabi and Doha. Despite these challenges, there is currently no indication that other Middle Eastern Grands Prix will be impacted later in the season. — With the calendar still featuring numerous races, the likelihood of reducing the season to 20 Grands Prix remains low. The break provides a chance for F1 to maintain fan engagement through testing sessions, offering on-track action before the Miami Grand Prix. — The current standings show George Russell leading the drivers' championship, followed closely by Kimi Antonelli. The break could be crucial for teams like Red Bull Racing and Ferrari to close the gap and strategize for upcoming races. #formula1 #f12026 VIA: [gpblog]

🚨| Max Verstappen backed by Coulthard amid 2026 F1 rules backlash: — Max Verstappen has received support from former F1 driver David Coulthard following criticism of the 2026 F1 rules. Verstappen's frustration grew after a point-less weekend in Shanghai due to an ERS problem. Coulthard, speaking on the Up To Speed podcast, emphasized that Verstappen and Lando Norris are being honest in their assessments, not just complaining because they aren't winning. “When we spoke to him in pre-season, he was very clear that there were some different challenges that weren't necessarily what he considered about getting the maximum out of the driving potential.” “So he has been pretty scathing. And should we question a four-time world champion? Should we question someone like that? And even the world champion Lando Norris?” “They're not making noise because they're not winning races. They're making noise because this is how they feel.” — Coulthard acknowledged that while some elements of the 2026 rules need adjustments, they have increased on-track action. “I do think it will change, and I think there will be some changes made, especially for qualifying, but I think we'd agree that this new formula has definitely given us a lot more on-track action.” “It's what DRS tried to do in the past, and what Pirelli tried to do at a certain point with having tyres that hit the cliff and then just dropped off in performance.” — Meanwhile, Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies noted the significant gap to Ferrari and Mercedes, emphasizing the need for a development race to close the deficit. #maxverstappen 🇳🇱 #f12026 VIA: [gpblog]

🚨| Max Verstappen F1 criticism savaged by former race winner: — Max Verstappen has been outspoken about the new technical regulations set for 2026, describing the sport as "Formula E on steroids" during pre-season testing. His comments have sparked debate, especially as Red Bull struggles with the pace of their RB22. — Former F1 race winner Ralf Schumacher dismissed comparisons between his brother Michael Schumacher and Verstappen. Speaking on the Backstage Boxengasse podcast, Schumacher remarked: “What is very important now, and this is also the big difference with my brother, is that he always stood behind his team and did not bring out criticism.” “What is important now is that Laurent Mekies shows that he is not only a good leader, but also fills gaps by bringing in new, strong personnel.” — Schumacher questioned Mekies' influence beyond Italy, given his history with Ferrari, and pointed out Verstappen's prominent role in the team: “As for Red Bull, at the moment, unfortunately, Max Verstappen takes centre stage. He is almost forced to say something about everything because there is no one else.” — Schumacher's critique of Verstappen's approach highlights a perceived difference in handling adversity compared to Michael Schumacher, raising questions about the Dutchman's current attitude towards Formula 1. #maxverstappen 🇳🇱 VIA: [motorsportweek]

🚨| F1 | Haas is the real surprise at the start of the season: — The VF-26 from Haas has emerged as a standout performer, particularly in cornering and tire management, setting it apart from other mid-group teams. Despite lacking power in qualifying, its race performance has been impressive. — Oliver Bearman has been instrumental in showcasing Haas's capabilities, securing a seventh place in Australia and a fifth in China. His performance, especially in tire management, has been a key factor in Haas's early success. — Haas has managed to surpass Red Bull in the standings, benefiting from Red Bull's reliability issues. The VF-26's strong chassis and race pace have allowed Haas to capitalize on these opportunities. — Comparisons with Ferrari highlight Haas's focus on cornering speed to offset power disadvantages. Both teams have developed effective chassis, but Haas's smaller resources make its achievements even more noteworthy. — The technical team, led by Andrea De Zordo, deserves credit for the VF-26's performance. Despite being the smallest team in F1, Haas has produced a competitive and reliable car, completing significant test mileage. — Haas's ability to manage tires effectively has been crucial, particularly in races like China where graining was a challenge. Bearman's skill in traffic and tire management helped secure valuable points. — The team's growth over recent years is evident in its resource and personnel improvements. Haas aims to maintain competitiveness through updates, crucial in the new technical cycle of 2026. — The challenge for Haas is to sustain its performance with continuous updates, leveraging its solid foundation from winter preparations. The team's early success is a testament to its strategic focus and execution. #haasf1 🇺🇸 #f12026 VIA: [motorsport IT]

🚨| Lando Norris to join Lewis Hamilton with waxwork at Madame Tussauds London: — Lando Norris expressed his excitement about being immortalized in wax at Madame Tussauds London, describing the experience as "surreal" and a significant honor. He shared his thoughts in a press release: "It's pretty surreal to think I'll have a figure in Madame Tussauds, it's such a big honour. Working with the artists has been awesome, and seeing all the detail they've put into the figure is really impressive." — Norris eagerly anticipates the unveiling of his wax figure, which will be displayed alongside other sports icons in the Culture Capital zone. He remarked: "I can't wait for fans to come and see the finished figure in London this summer." — Steve Blackburn, general manager at Madame Tussauds London, praised Norris for his contribution to the project and highlighted his status in modern sport: "Lando Norris is firmly at the forefront of modern sport and culture, ambitious, fearless and hugely popular with fans around the world. From the moment we started working with Lando, it was clear we were creating something really special." "He's been fantastic throughout the process, patiently sitting still and not racing around as usual! We're busy ensuring his figure is podium-ready and are incredibly excited to welcome guests to meet Lando's likeness in the coming months." — Despite the honor, Norris has faced challenges in the 2026 F1 season, currently ranking sixth in the drivers' standings with 15 points. He achieved a fifth-place finish in the Australian Grand Prix and a fourth-place finish in the Chinese sprint race. Unfortunately, both Norris and his teammate Oscar Piastri were unable to start the Chinese Grand Prix due to electrical faults. #lewishaamilton 🇬🇧 #landonorris #mcLarenf1 VIA: [motorsport]

🚨| Where Racing Bulls is exploiting its F1 power unit better than Red Bull: — Racing Bulls' VCARB 03 has shown exceptional top speeds, making it difficult to overtake on straights. This advantage was evident in Melbourne and Shanghai, where the car's high speed helped maintain positions against rivals. — The Red Bull-Ford powertrain's unique operation allows Racing Bulls to convert top speeds into a strategic tool during qualifying and races. This was particularly noticeable in Melbourne, where the car's speed on straights forced competitors to use more battery power. — The Racing Bulls' power unit philosophy focuses on maintaining high speeds at the end of straights, unlike rivals who experience more derating. This approach has helped them excel on energy-critical tracks, establishing themselves as top midfielders in qualifying. — Despite Racing Bulls' success, they face challenges during longer stints, where teams like Haas with competitive chassis gain an edge. Red Bull also struggles with weight issues, with the RB22 reportedly 15-20kg overweight, affecting performance. — In China, Red Bull faced difficulties due to first-lap incidents and a growing gap to leaders, not just in power unit terms but also due to chassis deficiencies. Racing Bulls, however, managed a strong finish, with Liam Lawson securing seventh place. — The Racing Bulls' performance highlights the effective work done on the power unit side, despite being the first engine built in-house. Both Racing Bulls and Red Bull share a lack of outright power compared to rivals like Ferrari and Haas. — The power unit is no longer the main differentiator among teams. Improvements are needed, but the gap lies more in other areas. Racing Bulls' strategic use of their power unit showcases their ability to exploit its strengths better than Red Bull. #isackhadjar 🇫🇷 #redbullracing 🇦🇹 #racingbulls 🇮🇹 VIA: [motorsport]

🚨| Why Ferrari believes F1 engine rules tweak won't stop Mercedes: — Fred Vasseur, Ferrari's team boss, expressed skepticism about the impact of the new compression ratio rule on Mercedes' performance. Speaking to media, Vasseur remarked: “I'm not convinced that the new compression ratio rule will be a huge game changer.” “It's more that you will have the ADUO at one stage – the introduction of the ADUO will be an opportunity for us to close the gap.” — Highlighting the multifaceted nature of racing performance, Vasseur insisted that focusing solely on engine performance would be a mistake: “But once again, it's not just about pure ICE performance. I think you have a lot in the energy management, a lot in the chassis, and it would be a mistake from our side to be just focused on one parameter.” — Reflecting on the current performance gap, Vasseur noted the challenges Ferrari faces in keeping pace with Mercedes, particularly in straight-line speed: “We know that we have a deficit of performance, mainly in the straight line, that we have to work on it.” “We are pushing like hell, on every single area to close the gap.” — Ferrari currently trails Mercedes by 31 points in the constructors’ championship, while maintaining a 49-point lead over third-placed McLaren. The ADUO evaluations, set to occur after key races, offer potential for strategic upgrades to enhance competitiveness. #scuderiaferrari 🇮🇹 #mercedesamgf1 🇩🇪 VIA: [motorsport]

🚨| Max Verstappen admits 'terrible pace' as Red Bull struggles exposed in China: — Max Verstappen opened up about his struggles during the Chinese Grand Prix, highlighting Red Bull's need to find more performance after Japan. Verstappen retired from the race due to a suspected ERS cooling failure. — Verstappen described the weekend as challenging, with difficulties in both the Sprint and Grand Prix starts. Speaking to media, he remarked: “It was expected, but again, at the start, it was a big problem, same as [the Sprint].” “The rest of the race was also the same as the Sprint; a lot of graining, I couldn't push, terrible pace and terrible balance like [Saturday], so just a very bad weekend for us.” “I had no battery in Melbourne, and here, the two problems were the same. I just had no power. As soon as I release the clutch, the engine is not there.” — Despite being labeled as a benchmark by Mercedes during pre-season, Verstappen refuted this, stating: “You guys [the media] don't know, I know! I never saw myself even close to Mercedes. But this week, it has been particularly bad.” — Mercedes' Toto Wolff commented on Verstappen's struggles, describing the RB22 as "horrendous to drive." — Verstappen attempted a different strategy with soft tyres, which backfired. He reflected: “I think it wouldn't have really mattered what tyre I would have put on. The hard tyre is not an option to start on. It's more like medium or soft.” “I don't think there was a big difference, because yesterday I had the same [graining] on the medium.” “For me, it's not a surprise that we are not close to Mercedes, Ferrari, or McLaren.” “But I hope that after Japan, you have a few extra weeks to put a bit more performance on the car, but, at the same time, others are looking at performance, right?” “So it's really not where we want to be. I know everyone is, of course, trying their best, and I think they are as frustrated with it as I am within the team.” “But yeah, we want to be better. Hopefully, we can already be a little bit better in Japan.” #maxverstappen 🇳🇱 #redbullracing 🇦🇹 #f12026 VIA: [PLANET F1]

🚨| Jacques Villeneuve says Ferrari 'destroyed' Chinese GP with Hamilton v Leclerc fight: — Jacques Villeneuve criticized Ferrari's strategy during the Chinese Grand Prix, suggesting that the intra-team battle between Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc cost them a chance to challenge Mercedes. Speaking to media, Villeneuve remarked: "Well, it was fair because he finished third, and he managed to beat his teammate. So, yes, it turned out okay, but it was a little bit extreme, and it destroyed Ferrari's race." "They were running second and third. Then they were fighting so hard, destroying their tyres. And in those two laps, they lost five seconds to Antonelli." "At some point, if they keep taking lap time away from each other like this, it will allow Mercedes to get away." — Villeneuve believes that if Ferrari's drivers focus on attacking Mercedes rather than each other, they could pose a significant threat. He added: "So, Mercedes should worry a little bit about Ferrari coming back, because they're not that far behind them in points." — Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur had a different perspective, viewing the battle as beneficial for team morale. He expressed: "Huge respect for both of them. They are professional, and I think it makes sense in this situation to let them race." "I know perfectly that that can also look completely stupid half an hour later." "But at the end of the day, I think it's also the best way to build up a team. We need to have this kind of emulation into the team to improve." "As long as it's done like it was done today, even a couple of times on the radio they told us that they have good fun, but I don't want to freeze the position." #lewishaamilton 🇬🇧 #scuderiaferrari 🇮🇹 #charlesleclerc 🇲🇨 #mercedesamgf1 🇩🇪 VIA: [PLANET F1]

🚨| Fernando Alonso faces F1 future decision as Felipe Massa delivers blunt warning: — Felipe Massa believes Fernando Alonso's Formula 1 career may be nearing its end, as the Spaniard faces a decisive period at Aston Martin. Massa remarked: "Fernando's moment has already passed." — Alonso is contesting his 23rd season, but it is not meeting pre-season expectations. The Aston Martin-Honda partnership has faced challenges, with vibrations from the power unit causing issues during testing and races. Alonso commented on his recent race experience: "I could not probably finish the race anyway. Vibrations levels were very high today." "At one point, from Lap 20 to 35, I was struggling a little bit to feel my hands and my feet." — Massa suggested Alonso should consider other racing opportunities: "It is time to compete in other races." "It is going to be one of Fernando's worst years. You have to be patient… but being patient at 44 years old is not easy." — F1 commentator Harry Benjamin emphasized the need for patience with the Aston Martin-Honda project, as Alonso may not have other options: "It's a really dire situation, isn't it? And it's tough to see Fernando Alonso in that situation again.": "No one's signing a Fernando Alonso, what is he, 44? No one's signing a 44, going on 45-year-old, Fernando Alonso, with all due respect, not on a long-term deal." — Alonso has set a deadline for his decision by September, considering the development of the cars and his own motivation. He shared his thoughts on the timing of his decision: "I think this year we have to wait a little longer because the progression and development of the cars is going to be incredible this year." "Maybe, in the spring they'll say, 'I need to know if you want to continue or not, because I need to know what other drivers are on the market.'" #fernandoalonso 🇪🇸 #f12026 VIA: [PLANET F1]

Schumacher labels Williams 'biggest flop' as FW48 weight rumours continue: — Ralf Schumacher criticized Williams for its FW48 weight issues, calling the car the "biggest flop" of F1 2026. He urged the team to use the break between Japan and Miami to address the issue. Speaking on Sky Deutschland's podcast, Schumacher remarked: “This long break is actually quite interesting, we've never had one like this before.” “Of course, there are teams that are struggling right now – Williams, for one – and this presents a huge opportunity for them to make the most of the time.” “It sounds harsh, but I think it's almost that simple to call Honda that. I'd say Williams is the biggest flop.” “When you consider what sort of engine is in the back and what's being made of it at the moment, I have to say that Williams, with a car that's apparently almost 30kg too heavy, is a real flop.” — Juan Pablo Montoya also criticized Williams, calling those responsible for the weight issues should be dismissed. Speaking to AS Colombia, Montoya said: “Personally someone should be held responsible for that, and that person shouldn't be on the team.” “The people on that team and someone who held a position that obviously involved supervising that and making a mistake like that, should be responsible for it and should set a bit of an example for people.” “Not by threatening people, but people have to take responsibility for their work, if you know what I mean? If you're the captain of, I don't know, a cruise ship and you sink the ship, you'll be sacked, if you know what I mean?” — Williams' team principal, James Vowles, explained the challenges of reducing the car's weight within the cost cap: “It is not complicated to bring it down already, and what I have in my inbox today is all of the engineering steps to not just bring it down, but actually be underweight by a good amount.” “If this were not a cost cap world, I would execute it tomorrow, and it would be done in a few weeks. It is not, so you've got to time it with when the components effectively start to go out of life, and where we will be bringing upgrades later in the season.” #williamsf1 🇬🇧 #f12026 VIA: [PLANET F1]

🚨| Fred Vasseur insists 'case closed' on potential F1 rule change: — Fred Vasseur, Ferrari team principal, is firm on not altering Formula 1's start procedure beyond the introduction of the five-second blue lights. Speaking to media, Vasseur emphasized: “I think that we already changed massively the rule of the start with the five-second story.” “One year ago I went to the FIA, I raised the concern on the starting procedure said, 'guys, it will be difficult'. The reply was clear that we have to design the car fitting with the regulation and not to change the regulation fitting with the car.” — Despite the challenges posed by the new engine regulations, Vasseur believes the current changes are sufficient: “We designed the car fitting with the regulation, the change of the five-second blue light story didn't help us at all, but I think enough is enough.” — When asked if the matter was settled, Vasseur confirmed: “For me, yes.” — George Russell, championship leader, noted the FIA's consideration to adjust the energy harvesting rule to balance race starts, but acknowledged resistance from some teams. He commented: “The FIA were looking to potentially adjust that but, as you can imagine, some teams who are making good starts didn't want it, which I think is just a little bit silly. I'm not overly concerned, but it's definitely a challenge.” “The FIA did just want to make our life easier and just remove this harvest limit but, as often, people have selfish views and they want to do what's best for themselves, and that's a part of Formula 1 and part of the challenge of Formula 1.” — Despite Mercedes' strong performance in qualifying and race pace, Russell has been overtaken by Ferrari drivers at the start, highlighting the Scuderia's advantage in this area. — Formula 1 would require a supermajority to change the start procedure, needing agreement from all teams except one, along with the FIA and FOM. Ferrari's customers, Haas and Cadillac, are unlikely to support changes due to their similar engine configurations. #scuderiaferrari 🇮🇹 #f12026 VIA: [PLANET F1]

🚨| Lewis Hamilton 'no regret' claim as David Coulthard ponder Mercedes-Ferrari doubts: — Lewis Hamilton expressed no regrets about his move to Ferrari, despite Mercedes' resurgence in the new F1 season. Speaking to media, Hamilton remarked on his former team's success and his own podium finish in Shanghai. “I have to say a huge congratulations to Kimi. I'm so, so happy for you, buddy, and I'm so honoured to be able to share this moment with him.” “He took my seat, obviously, at this great team. So big congratulations to Mercedes, they're really pulling ahead at the moment. We've got a lot of work to do to try and keep up.”. “To see George come through the sport and then get to Formula 1, and now see Kimi come through and to be able to be here with them, especially as Kimi took my seat.” “And then Bono, I've worked with for so long, so it's like sitting here with my whole family. So that's great.” — David Coulthard, however, doubts Hamilton regrets his decision to join Ferrari. On the Up to Speed podcast, Coulthard shared his perspective on Hamilton's mindset. “I don't think so. I think the mind of a sports person, and more specifically, a racing driver, is all about the here and now. It's about the opportunity.” “I think he made it easier for Mercedes by leaving to go to Ferrari, because that would have been difficult for Toto to eventually say, 'Lewis, we need to move on. We need the next generation.'” “I think he drove brilliantly, and there's no question he's been a lot happier. Is it because love is in the air, or is it because he's genuinely enjoying these cars?” “Ferrari has put on track the second-best car at the moment. They're an annoyance to Mercedes, but they don't have the pace in the first two grand prix to beat them over that duration.” “But what we have seen is Hamilton somehow adapting to the set of regulations, and although Leclerc came back strong in the second half of the race, I was kind of watching from the commentary box, thinking, 'Okay, when's Leclerc going to come?' Leclerc didn't. That was a Hamilton masterclass in a one-stop race.” #lewishamilton 🇬🇧 #scuderiaferrari 🇮🇹 #mercedesamgf1 🇩🇪 #f12026 VIA: [PLANET F1]

🚨| Hamilton: “My new track engineer? A stimulus, morale is high within the team” — Frederic Vasseur, Ferrari team principal, highlighted the successful collaboration between Lewis Hamilton and his new track engineer, Carlo Santi, following the Australian GP. Speaking to media, Vasseur remarked: “I think Michel-Grosjean is an excellent purchase and that he can get along well with Hamilton with a view to becoming his track engineer, but now Carlo Santi is taking care of Lewis and the couple is working well. We'll make a decision together, but there's no hurry.” — Lewis Hamilton, reflecting on his partnership with Santi, expressed satisfaction with the current setup and the positive atmosphere within Ferrari. During a press conference, Hamilton shared: “The new track engineer was a stimulus for me, and within the team the morale is high. I can't wait to go back to Maranello next week and see everyone again.” — Hamilton also discussed the unique challenge of achieving his first podium with Ferrari, describing it as a significant milestone in his illustrious career: “Getting on the podium is the most difficult thing I have ever done in my career, and it was the biggest challenge. I just had to wait for the right time. I think I cultivated a really positive mental attitude at the start of the season and I'll take it with me.” #lewishamilton 🇬🇧 #scuderiaferrari 🇮🇹 #f12026 VIA: [formulapassion]

🚨| Wolff: “At the moment we have a car that can win, we'll see what the political attacks will be in the coming months”: — The Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff, expressed confidence in the W17's current performance, acknowledging its capability to secure victories. Speaking to media, Wolff remarked: “We have a good car that, at this stage, is able to win. We will see what political attacks will be launched in the coming weeks and months. At the moment, the W17 is a car that can win.” — George Russell, reflecting on the team's performance after the Chinese GP, cautioned against complacency despite their apparent advantage over Ferrari. Russell noted: “Ferraris are faster than us in curves, but slower than us on the straight. At present, we have the advantage, but we can't take it for granted because obviously we know that some things will change in a couple of months.” — The Mercedes team has shown dominance in the first two races of the F1 2026 season, with close contests in Australia and China. The W17's power unit appears to give it an edge over Ferrari's SF-26, particularly in terms of straight-line speed. — Russell's comments hint at upcoming changes, such as the ADUO system and a new compression ratio measurement, which could impact the current balance of power. — Wolff anticipates potential political challenges aimed at disrupting Mercedes' momentum, having already achieved two double victories and a Sprint win. #scuderiaferrari 🇮🇹 #mercedesamgf1 🇩🇪 #f12026 VIA: [formulapassion]

🚨| Montezemolo: “It bothered me to see Antonelli win in a Mercedes, but Ferrari would have destroyed it”: — Former Ferrari president Luca Cordero di Montezemolo expressed mixed feelings about Andrea Kimi Antonelli's victory at the 2026 Chinese GP. Speaking to Corriere della Sera, Montezemolo remarked: “His victory moved me, he's a 19-year-old boy who is constantly improving. He had problems starting, and yet he didn't lose heart: he went ahead and led without uncertainty, risking only in the end.” — Montezemolo praised Antonelli's maturity and composure, noting these traits are uncommon for someone of his age and nationality. He continued: “He showed maturity and coolness, not typical of an Italian and especially not of one his age. He has his feet on the ground, I hope he always stays that way, the premises are all there.” — Despite his admiration, Montezemolo admitted feeling uneasy about Antonelli's association with Mercedes, wishing instead to see him in a Ferrari. He explained: “But it bothered me a bit to see him in a Mercedes. I would have preferred him in Ferrari, but taking someone like him and immediately putting him in Ferrari would have meant destroying him: he would have had enormous pressure.” — Montezemolo advised Antonelli to focus on continuous improvement, acknowledging the advantage of driving a superior car. He added: “I would suggest that he continue to improve, because, with all due respect, he was perfect on a much better machine. I've seen several drivers who thought they were phenomenons after a few GPs. But Kimi is different.” #scuderiaferrari 🇮🇹 #kimiantonelli #mercedesamgf1 🇩🇪 #f12026 VIA: [formulapassion]

Red Bull: Verstappen in China did a useless lift and coast in Turn 6 for 36 laps: — Max Verstappen experienced a challenging weekend in China, with Red Bull scoring only four points. A misunderstanding between Verstappen and track engineer Gianpiero Lambiase was highlighted during the race. Verstappen expressed his frustration on the radio: “I took my foot off the accelerator for half the race. Why didn't anyone tell me?” — Gianpiero Lambiase responded to Verstappen's concerns, emphasizing his support and intention to assist: “I'm on your side, Max. I am trying to help you and give you information. Nothing else.” — The Chinese GP saw Verstappen retire from the race due to a cooling system issue with the hybrid component of the RB22's power unit. Isack Hadjar also faced difficulties, spinning on the first lap and finishing eighth. — Analysis by Auto Motor und Sport revealed that Verstappen unnecessarily performed 'lift and coast' in T-6 for 36 laps, without intervention from the Red Bull team. This strategy was also applied at T-1 and T-14 based on team recommendations. — The incident underscores the challenges Red Bull faces in 2026, as they strive to compete with Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren. The team is working to improve their performance after a promising start to the season. #maxverstappen 🇳🇱 #redbullracing 🇦🇹 #racingbulls 🇮🇹 VIA: [formulapassion]

🚨| Piquet Jr: “If Verstappen drove a Mercedes he wouldn't say anything about the rules”: — Nelson Piquet Jr., brother of Max Verstappen's partner, suggested that Verstappen's criticism of the 2026 F1 rules would be different if he had a competitive car. Speaking on the podcast Pelas Pistas, Piquet Jr. remarked: “If you ask Max what his best year in F1 was, he will not answer the one in which he won the last race, but the one in which he won five races to go because if it were up to him he would always like to win and for this reason he needs to have the best car on the grid.” — Piquet Jr. further commented on Verstappen's dissatisfaction with the current F1 regulations, implying that Verstappen's perspective would change if he were driving for Mercedes: “Given the situation it is normal that he speaks ill of the 2026 rules, but if he were behind the wheel of a Mercedes he would shut up like a fly and wouldn't say a word.” — Max Verstappen has been vocal about his discontent with the 2026 F1 cars, likening them to “Formula E cars on steroids.” His remarks have drawn criticism from figures like Gunther Steiner and Ralf Schumacher. — Despite Verstappen's criticisms, other drivers, such as those from Ferrari, have expressed positive experiences with the new cars. Lewis Hamilton, for instance, has described the 2026 cars as providing some of the best racing of his career. #maxverstappen 🇳🇱 #redbullracing 🇦🇹 #mercedesamgf1 🇩🇪 #f12026 VIA: [formulapassion]

🚨| Mercedes engine: what really is the new party mode: — Lewis Hamilton suggested that Mercedes employs a Party Mode in qualifying, a more aggressive engine mapping that enhances performance during crucial moments. Speaking to media, Hamilton remarked: “The Silver Arrows make the difference once their wings are opened, especially in qualifying from Q2 onwards.” “The faster you travel, the more the Brixworth power unit operates in its optimal window.” — The choice of a larger turbo favors maximum power, especially when the car is lighter, increasing average speed. Hamilton explained: “The lighter the car, the more the average speed increases and the more Brixworth's engine works at high revs.” — The hybrid component also plays a crucial role in Mercedes' performance. In qualifying and at the end of the race, the car spends more time on gas, stressing the battery and electric motor. Hamilton commented: “It is important to control the resulting rise in temperatures, as the charge and discharge cycles become more aggressive.” — Lando Norris from McLaren acknowledged Mercedes' superior energy management, attributing their delay to the Silver Arrows' ability to power the electric motor longer on the straight. Norris stated: “The Papaya team does not have any Party Mode, if anything, tracing the delay from the Silver Arrows to their ability to power the electric motor longer on the straight.” — Mercedes' software flexibility in energy management strategies is a significant advantage. The team adapts well to changing conditions, as highlighted by Antonelli: “The wind changed in qualifying and, consequently, the approach to curves and the use of the battery also changed.” “In [Melbourne] qualifying, we had to introduce more lift and coast, because the laps were getting faster and faster.” — Overall, Mercedes' Party Mode is a blend of energy management, driver preparation, and an engine optimized for high revs. Ferrari hopes to challenge this dominance, but only time will reveal the outcome. #lewishamilton 🇬🇧 #mercedesamgf1 🇩🇪 #f12026 VIA: [formulapassion]