Max Verstappen is seriously considering leaving F1 after the 2026 season due to his strong dislike for the new regulations. Former driver Eddie Irvine controversially stated the sport doesn't need him, citing many other talents, but acknowledged Verstappen's huge salary is a reason to stay. Both share critical views on the 2026 rules' focus on battery energy and safety implications.
Lando Norris warns that F1's current energy rules create dangerously high closing speeds, leaving drivers vulnerable. He explains that managing battery deployment forces cars to slow dramatically on straights, putting them at the 'mercy' of any faster car behind, and calls for urgent fixes from the FIA.
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has dismissed Max Verstappen's criticism of F1's 2026 cars, arguing that over 90% of fans find the new racing exciting. He emphasized that pleasing the audience is the priority, highlighting a divide between driver feedback and the sport's commercial direction.
A Spanish official has revealed that organizers for a 2011 papal visit proposed Fernando Alonso drive the Pope's Popemobile, a plan instantly vetoed by furious security officials who insisted only a police officer could take the wheel. The story highlights Alonso's national hero status and the strict protocols protecting the Pope.
Valtteri Bottas is focusing on gratitude for his F1 return with Cadillac rather than joining peers in complaining about the challenging new 2026 cars. The Finn, back after a year as a reserve, acknowledges the increased mental demand but finds the cars fun and is simply happy to be racing again.
Red Bull has placed a modified F1 car on Madrid's subway tracks as a clever promotional stunt for the city's forthcoming Grand Prix, playfully nodding to the sport's "on rails" handling compliment. The display highlights the integration of the new street circuit with public transport as construction continues for the 2026 race.
Williams F1 has appointed Dan Milner as its new Chief Engineer of Vehicle Technology, poaching him from Mercedes after a 14-year stint at Brackley. Milner, who brings extensive experience in R&D and powertrain integration, will play a key role in overseeing car development as Williams continues its mission to return to the front of the grid.
An FIA-commissioned study reveals Formula 1's extensive reliance on volunteers, requiring over 20,000 people annually to run grands prix. The report details the massive time commitment and personal cost for marshals and officials, prompting calls for greater support and professionalization to safeguard the sport's operational future.
As Gianpiero Lambiase prepares to leave Red Bull for McLaren in 2028, we revisit the intense but effective radio exchanges that defined his decade-long partnership with Max Verstappen, showcasing the raw communication behind four world championships.
Red Bull junior Arvid Lindblad has made a solid start to his debut F1 season with Racing Bulls, scoring points in Australia and showing strong one-lap speed. The 18-year-old acknowledges the steep learning curve, especially with 2026 car energy management, but is confident he can improve after the break and target more points in Miami.
A majority of F1 fans support Gianpiero Lambiase's decision to leave Red Bull for McLaren in 2028, viewing it as a smart career move. The engineer behind Max Verstappen's titles will take on a senior executive role at McLaren, marking another high-profile departure from the reigning champions.
McLaren's Oscar Piastri credits his recent on-track success to feeling more comfortable and authentic in his second F1 season. He reveals that showing his true personality, once backed by solid results, has been key to his performance and resilience, marking a significant evolution from his composed rookie image.
