Mercedes boss Toto Wolff predicts the 2026 F1 power unit rules, with a 50/50 electric-combustion split, will favor drivers skilled in simulator racing like Max Verstappen. He believes managing energy deployment will become a strategic "chess" game, giving an edge to the generation for whom virtual training is second nature.
Lewis Hamilton's first season with Ferrari was his worst statistically, with no Grand Prix podiums and a heavy defeat to teammate Charles Leclerc. Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert warns the struggle risks 'tarnishing his legacy,' as Hamilton appears uncharacteristically lost. The 2026 regulation reset is now a critical juncture for the seven-time champion.
Newly crowned Formula 1 world champion Lando Norris has been shortlisted for the 2025 BBC Sports Personality of the Year award. The McLaren driver is nominated alongside five other British sports stars following his dramatic title victory in Abu Dhabi.
Nico Rosberg analyzes Lewis Hamilton's difficult first year at Ferrari, stating the seven-time champion is in a tough spot but cannot afford to quit. Rosberg pinpoints Hamilton's qualifying struggles and discomfort with the car as key issues, but highlights the 2026 F1 rule changes as a major opportunity for a reset and a return to form.
Kalle Rovanpera's debut Super Formula test was cut short after he was diagnosed with Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), a balance disorder. The two-time WRC champion, who is switching to single-seaters with aims on Formula 1, was medically barred from driving at Suzuka and will take a short recovery break.
Johnny Herbert speculates Oscar Piastri could grow frustrated enough at McLaren to seek a move elsewhere, despite the team's championship-winning capability. He notes a switch to Ferrari or Mercedes offers no title guarantee, while joining Red Bull would mean facing Max Verstappen as a teammate.
Aston Martin's F1 car is featured at PUMA's new Oxford Street store in London to launch a collaborative collection inspired by the team's engineers. The event celebrates the team's partnership with PUMA and looks ahead to its 2026 project under Adrian Newey, offering fans unique off-track access and merchandise.
After securing his first F1 World Championship, Lando Norris celebrated with burnouts in Abu Dhabi, deliberately ignoring a team radio warning to be cautious. McLaren's directive stemmed from the fresh memory of a double disqualification in Las Vegas for plank wear, which nearly cost them the title.
Forbes estimates Max Verstappen as F1's top earner in 2025 at $76M, with Lewis Hamilton second at $70.5M. Champion Lando Norris ranks third with $57.5M, largely from bonuses. The list's surprise is Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli at an estimated $12.5M, a high figure for a newcomer.
The FIA has updated F1's sporting rules for 2026, introducing more flexible practice sessions on sprint weekends, expanded pre-season testing, and a temporary increase in team personnel limits to help manage the transition to the new technical regulations.
The Brad Pitt-starring Formula 1 movie has been nominated for two Golden Globe Awards: Best Original Score for composer Hans Zimmer and Cinematic and Box Office Achievement, recognizing its global earnings of over $631 million.
Max Verstappen leads the 2025 F1 earnings list with an estimated $114 million AUD, while Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri see massive pay increases following their title battle. Lewis Hamilton's record Ferrari salary places him second, reflecting the sport's booming financial climate and the high stakes for driver talent.
