Mercedes is strategically holding back on significant F1 upgrades for the rest of 2025 to dedicate resources to developing their 2026 car. This "disciplined" approach aims to ensure a strong start under the new regulations, a lesson learned from their 2022 struggles, despite the ongoing fight for second in the Constructors' Championship with millions in prize money on the line.
Oscar Piastri shares insights into his relationship with Lando Norris amidst their F1 2025 title rivalry, revealing it's "better than ever." He attributes this to McLaren's fair management, their ability to separate on-track incidents from personal dynamics, and their shared commitment to team goals, ensuring a harmonious yet competitive environment in their championship pursuit.
Despite a challenging 2025 F1 season marked by a third double non-score in Brazil and persistent technical issues, Lewis Hamilton remains optimistic about Ferrari's ability to finish the season strongly. He emphasizes the team's commitment to maximizing performance and expresses hope for success under the new 2026 regulations, even as his personal podium streak is at risk.
Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has warned against the 'legend' status and mounting pressure on young driver Kimi Antonelli, particularly from Italian media, despite his promising early-season performances. While acknowledging Antonelli's talent and retaining him for 2026, Wolff emphasized the need to manage expectations for the 18-year-old as he navigates the complexities of Formula 1, stressing that tire management and overall car handling are significant learning curves for rookies.
Toto Wolff is in advanced talks to sell a portion of his Mercedes F1 team stake, potentially valuing the team at an unprecedented $6 billion. The buyer has been identified as George Kurtz, CEO of CrowdStrike and a significant sponsor, signaling F1's booming market value. Wolff will retain his leadership roles, ensuring continuity.
Sergio Perez returned to an F1 cockpit for testing, while Helmut Marko revealed carbon fiber debris caused Max Verstappen's Brazilian GP puncture. Ferrari's John Elkann faced criticism for his comments to drivers, and Martin Brundle analyzed Oscar Piastri's recent title slump. Red Bull's Marko also pinpointed a mid-season period where Verstappen's potential title bid faltered.
Ferrari is urged to heed Lewis Hamilton's advice to improve performance after a double DNF in Brazil, as Red Bull faces an EU antitrust investigation for restricting competition in the energy drink market. Meanwhile, the 2025 F1 season is extended by a mandatory post-season Pirelli tire test, requiring all teams to participate and postpone their holidays.
Fernando Alonso sarcastically suggested he could solve F1's track limits debate by committing the offense himself, highlighting perceived double standards in rule enforcement. His comments stem from recent incidents in Mexico and his past experiences in Sochi, where drivers gained advantages by cutting corners. Alonso advocates for gravel traps and criticizes the slow pace of regulatory changes, suggesting his actions might be the only way to prompt immediate action.
Sergio Perez has kicked off Cadillac's F1 preparations by testing a blacked-out Ferrari SF-23 at Imola. This operational test, focusing on team readiness and communication, is a crucial step for the General Motors-backed outfit as it gears up for its Formula 1 debut in 2026 with Ferrari-supplied power units. Perez's participation also marks his return to F1 machinery after nearly a year, allowing him to assess his physical condition.
Former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer broke down why Oscar Piastri crashed in the Brazilian sprint race, while Max Verstappen impressively saved his car in identical tricky conditions. Palmer highlighted the 'skill test' presented by standing water at Turn 3, where Piastri's mistake cost him crucial championship points, further widening the gap to teammate Lando Norris, while Verstappen's save underscored his elite car control.
Cadillac has officially begun its Formula 1 journey, conducting a two-day test in Imola with Sergio Perez driving a black Ferrari SF-23. The test focused on training the new US team's personnel and refining operational procedures, marking a crucial step towards their 2026 F1 debut in collaboration with Ferrari.
Audi has unveiled its ambitious 2026 Formula 1 project, aiming for a championship title by 2030. While their spectacular presentation and rich motorsport heritage inspire confidence, the path to F1 success is notoriously difficult, as evidenced by historical challenges faced by other German manufacturers. Integrating their new power unit development in Germany with the Sauber chassis operations in Switzerland, and overcoming formidable competition, will be key to their journey.
