George Russell has voiced strong opinions on the current F1 stewarding system, advocating for the replacement of volunteer stewards with paid, professional individuals. He argues that a "multibillion-dollar sport" like Formula 1 should not rely on volunteers for such critical decision-making roles, emphasizing the need for consistency and real racing experience to improve the quality and fairness of race adjudication.
Formula 1 drivers Kimi Antonelli, Oliver Bearman, Liam Lawson, Nico Hülkenberg, Carlos Sainz, and Lewis Hamilton convened at the 2025 Qatar Grand Prix press conference. They discussed their season's highs and lows, strategic approaches for the upcoming race, and the impact of the ground effect era. Discussions also highlighted the critical need for improved consistency in driving standards and stewarding, with calls for more experienced driver input in decision-making.
Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll has expressed strong approval for the team's decision to name Adrian Newey as Team Principal for the 2026 season. Newey, who joined Aston Martin earlier this year to focus on the AMR26's development, will now take on a broader leadership role, signaling Aston Martin's serious intent to become a top F1 contender, especially with major regulation changes on the horizon.
Lewis Hamilton has unequivocally stated he has "no regrets" about his decision to join Ferrari, despite enduring what he called a "nightmare" first season with Mercedes. Facing a challenging 2024, marked by his worst-ever qualifying performance and the risk of ending his podium streak, Hamilton remains committed to the long-term vision, emphasizing the need for team growth and acknowledging the time it takes to build a competitive unit.
Fernando Alonso hails Adrian Newey's promotion to Aston Martin F1 team principal for 2026 as a 'logical step,' emphasizing Newey's existing management of technical development. This restructuring, paired with Andy Cowell's new role as Chief Strategy Officer, aims to bolster Aston Martin for the 2026 regulation changes and their new Honda works engine partnership, signaling owner Lawrence Stroll's ambition to return the team to the top of Formula 1.
The FIA has introduced significant modifications to the Losail International Circuit for the Qatar Grand Prix, including new gravel traps at critical corners to physically deter track limit abuses and a strict 25-lap tire limit to combat last year's excessive wear. These changes aim to enhance enforcement, improve safety, and shape race strategy, with implications for drivers like Lando Norris amidst a tight championship battle.
Fernando Alonso has praised Aston Martin's decision to appoint Adrian Newey as team principal from 2026, with Andy Cowell transitioning to Chief Strategy Officer. Alonso believes this strategic move, uniting two F1 legends under Lawrence Stroll, is a “normal logical step” that will enhance the team's performance and prepare it for the upcoming 2026 regulations. He anticipates Newey's relentless pursuit of perfection will drive the team to new heights.
Fernando Alonso is viewing the final two races of the 2025 Formula 1 season in Qatar and Abu Dhabi as a 'celebration' to close out what he describes as a 'very complicated year' with Aston Martin. After a challenging season with a lack of consistent points, the double world champion is eager for the end of the current ground-effect era, with his sights firmly set on the significant regulation changes and opportunities that 2026 will bring for the team.
Alex Albon has called for all F1 cars to undergo post-race plank wear checks instead of the current random sampling method. His comments follow recent high-profile disqualifications, highlighting concerns over fairness and the practical challenges teams face in balancing performance with strict technical regulations. Albon believes a universal check would ensure a more level playing field, despite the logistical difficulties for the FIA.
Carmen Jorda, a former Lotus F1 development driver, is returning to the Enstone team as Alpine's head of F1 Academy. This role, part of a renewed partnership with Qatar Airways, will see her lead mentorship initiatives and support Alpine’s 2026 F1 Academy entry. Her appointment is notable given past controversies surrounding her on-track performance and prior comments about women in motorsport, sparking renewed debate on merit and marketing in driver development.
Lando Norris asserts that Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri are equally threatening to his F1 championship lead, calling them "just as good." Leading by 24 points with two races left, Norris dismisses Verstappen's greater pedigree as a factor, maintaining the same approach. McLaren will not enforce team orders, as Piastri remains mathematically in contention, setting the stage for a thrilling championship finale.
After a double disqualification in Las Vegas due to excessive skid block wear, McLaren has implemented immediate measures to prevent similar issues at the Qatar Grand Prix. The team is proactively adjusting its car setup, especially concerning ride height and aerodynamics, to navigate the unique demands of the Lusail International Circuit. With mandatory pit stops forcing maximum performance stints, McLaren faces added pressure to ensure reliability and maintain its championship pursuit.
