Charles Leclerc has publicly addressed Ferrari chairman John Elkann's recent statement, which called for drivers to "talk less" after a dismal Brazilian GP. Leclerc confirmed Elkann's intentions were "clear and honest," emphasizing their long-standing relationship and shared ambition to return Ferrari to the top. The Monegasque driver underscored his full alignment with the chairman's push for improvement, prioritizing the positive intent behind the critical remarks amidst Ferrari's challenging season.
Isack Hadjar apologized to teammate Liam Lawson for their aggressive last-lap contact at the Brazilian GP, admitting fault in his attempt to overtake for seventh. Despite the clash, both Racing Bulls drivers finished in the points (7th and 8th), highlighting the team's policy of free racing without team orders. Hadjar conceded his move was "a bit aggressive" but also emphasized his pursuit of more points, as the team battles for sixth in the constructors' championship.
Carlos Sainz has condemned the 10-second penalty given to Oscar Piastri at the São Paulo Grand Prix, calling it "unacceptable." Sainz argued Piastri was innocent in the Turn 1 collision that took out Charles Leclerc, emphasizing that inconsistent stewarding decisions are a recurring problem that needs urgent reform. His remarks reflect broader discontent within F1 regarding penalty assessments, impacting race outcomes and championship integrity.
Aston Martin's junior driver, Jak Crawford, is set to replace Lance Stroll for the opening practice session at the upcoming Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This will be Crawford's second FP1 appearance, building on his recent confirmation as the team's third driver for the 2026 F1 season. The opportunity highlights Aston Martin's commitment to developing its young talent, integrating Crawford through crucial track time and extensive simulator work as he continues his F2 title challenge.
Max Verstappen is exploring a potential switch to number '3' for the 2026 F1 season if he's not defending a title. Meanwhile, Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz are under scrutiny after executive John Elkann publicly criticized their focus following the team's double DNF in Brazil, adding pressure as they head into the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown provocatively suggests in his new book that Max Verstappen effectively runs the Red Bull F1 team, with everyone seemingly "afraid" of the four-time champion. Brown claims Red Bull's car is tailored to Verstappen, and the team deliberately avoids signing a second driver who could pose a threat, all stemming from their "terrified" fear of losing him. He contrasts this 'one-man team' approach with McLaren's ethos, which champions fair competition.
F1 drivers, including Hamilton, Alonso, Russell, and Verstappen, are voicing concerns over potential rain at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Following recent flood warnings, the notoriously slippery street circuit, coupled with low temperatures, presents significant challenges for tire grip and visibility, although the race day forecast currently predicts dry conditions.
Charles Leclerc has addressed Ferrari chairman John Elkann's recent "talk less" comments, interpreting them as a positive push for improvement rather than criticism. Following a double DNF in Brazil and Elkann's public remarks, Leclerc emphasized his strong relationship with the chairman, stating that Elkann clarified his intentions were to motivate the team and drivers to perform better as they look to the crucial 2026 F1 regulations. This move aims to maintain team unity amidst a challenging season.
Media day at the Las Vegas Grand Prix revealed critical insights ahead of an unpredictable race. Drivers delicately handled management criticism, a teammate clash led to an immediate apology, and driver futures hung in the balance. Calls for clearer racing guidelines emerged, while potential wet weather added to driver anxieties for the low-grip street circuit, and an unexpected driver feud spiced things up. Early season technical issues also hampered a promising rookie's progress.
F1 drivers, led by Carlos Sainz, are calling for urgent clarity from the FIA after Oscar Piastri received what they consider an "unacceptable" 10-second penalty for a Turn 1 collision in Brazil. This incident has sparked a broader debate over the rigidity and inconsistent application of F1's Driving Standard Guidelines, with drivers pushing for a more flexible approach and potentially exploring permanent stewards to improve decision-making consistency.
Lewis Hamilton has dismissed claims that his recent social media post was a direct response to Ferrari President John Elkann's critical remarks. Hamilton clarified that he was unaware of Elkann's comments about drivers needing to "talk less" and "focus on driving" at the time of his post, emphasizing his strong relationship with Elkann and his full commitment to helping Ferrari improve.
Max Verstappen reiterated his belief that Lando Norris's time to win a championship would come, a prediction now on the cusp of reality. With three rounds left, Norris leads the Drivers' Championship by 49 points over Verstappen, having dominated recent races. While Verstappen acknowledges his slim chances, George Russell predicts McLaren might struggle in Las Vegas, potentially setting the stage for a dramatic title showdown.
