Toto Wolff reiterates that F1's 2026 cars could theoretically reach 400 km/h, thanks to new hybrid power units and aerodynamics. However, Mercedes' Hywel Thomas clarifies that such a peak speed would consume crucial electrical energy, forcing earlier power reduction on straights and highlighting the strategic energy management that will define the next era.
Audi will achieve a key milestone in its Formula 1 project by firing up its first-ever F1 power unit integrated with its new chassis before Christmas. This unusually early test demonstrates the team's accelerated preparation for its 2026 debut, though its true competitiveness remains a question mark until the racing begins.
Max Verstappen will race with the number #3 in 2026, replacing the champion's #1 he used since 2022. He confirmed the switch to his long-held favorite number after Lando Norris won the 2025 title and claimed the #1 for himself.
Isack Hadjar has been warned he must control his emotional outbursts when he joins Red Bull in 2026. Analyst Anthony Davidson says the rookie's tendency to "explode" in the car "won't be tolerated" alongside Max Verstappen, despite his impressive driving talent.
Max Verstappen says it 'pains' him to see rival Lewis Hamilton struggle during a difficult debut season with Ferrari, dismissing suggestions the seven-time champion should retire and expecting him to return in 2026.
Daniel Ricciardo hints at a possible return to motorsport, not in F1, but in off-road racing through his Ford Raptor ambassador role. After attending the Raptor Rally and expressing interest in the Baja 1000, both he and Ford are leaving the door open for future competition, with events like the Finke Desert Race mentioned as potential targets.
After his best F1 season yet in 2025, Mercedes' George Russell is enjoying a ski holiday in the Alps. Team boss Toto Wolff believes the 2026 rule changes could favor Russell, who is seen as a future title contender if given the right car.
Max Verstappen will switch to the number 3 for the 2026 F1 season, adopting the digit long-associated with former teammate Daniel Ricciardo. The move, enabled by an FIA rule change and Ricciardo's permission, comes after Verstappen lost the champion's number 1 to Lando Norris and signifies a fresh start under the new regulations.
F1 has revealed the first look at its 2026 cars, featuring a smaller, lighter design and active aerodynamics. In a major shift, the sport is also replacing technical jargon like DRS with simpler terms such as 'Overtake Mode' and 'Boost Mode' to make the racing more understandable for fans worldwide.
Liam Lawson says he learned from teammate Isack Hadjar's impressive rookie F1 season at Racing Bulls, where the pair scored most of the team's points. Lawson praised Hadjar's rapid adaptation and credited their partnership as a positive and educational experience.
Ford's global motorsport director Mark Rushbrook discusses the significance of their first Gen3 Supercars championship and Bathurst win, the anticipation building for their 2026 F1 return with Red Bull, and potential future racing programs including GT3 and a role for Daniel Ricciardo.
Max Verstappen is seeking to use Daniel Ricciardo's number '3' for the 2026 F1 season, requiring his former teammate's blessing. A recent rule change allows drivers to switch numbers, with the FIA's final list due December 20. If unsuccessful, Verstappen will revert to his classic '33'.
