2026-02-04T10:00:00+01:00 Laminas_Feed_Writer https://racingnews365.com Redactie info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com

2026-02-04T09:15:00+01:00 2026-02-04T09:47:37+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lando-norris-inspires-students-in-visit-to-old-school-anything-is-possible Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lando Norris’ former school has revealed that the reigning world champion visited on Monday, in an experience that inspired students. Norris made the trip to his old school following last week’s three-day test in Barcelona, which saw McLaren run its MCL40 for the first time ahead of its attempt to defend the drivers’ and constructors’ titles. The McLaren driver paid a visit to Chew Stoke Church School and was greeted by the entire school on arrival, with students waving flags as Norris exited his vehicle. Following his arrival, Norris took photos with numerous students before taking part in a whole-school assembly, where he spoke about always pushing to achieve your goals and what motivates him. The assembly ended with a short Q&A, before two students read a poem about the Briton and presented him with gifts. Norris then went on to visit every classroom to answer further questions and sign several items. It marked an occasion both the 26-year-old and the school will never forget. To cap it all off, Norris left a gift for every student. As part of his visit, Norris was handed a certificate notifying him that he had become an honorary member of the Chew Stoke Church School Society. Taking to Facebook to share everything that happened on the day, the school wrote: "We are so incredibly grateful that Lando made a special visit to Chew Stoke.  "It is an experience the children and whole school community will not forget. We are certain it has inspired our pupils to aim high, dream big and remember anything is possible."

2026-02-04T08:30:00+01:00 2026-02-04T08:30:31+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/daniel-ricciardo-reacts-to-soft-hands-max-verstappen-new-race-number Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull has posted Daniel Ricciardo’s first comical reaction to "soft hands" Max Verstappen running the #3, which was formerly the Australian’s number. Due to losing the world title to Lando Norris, Verstappen has had to relinquish the #1 he had been using since 2022, following his title triumph the year prior. However, rather than return to the Dutchman’s traditional #33, he was granted permission by Ricciardo to take the #3, which was unavailable without the Australian’s consent. With Ricciardo and Verstappen sharing a close bond, being given the #3 was no problem for the four-time world champion. The #3 was seen on Verstappen’s car for the first time during last week’s five-day Barcelona test, having already been spotted on Red Bull clothing at the team’s launch of the RB22. That was where Ricciardo saw it for the first time, with Red Bull posting footage of the Honey Badger and Verstappen greeting one another, before the latter showed off the #3 on his cap. The clip posted by the Milton Keynes-based outfit showed Verstappen walking up behind Ricciardo and placing his hands on him, to which the 36-year-old replied: "Ah, I know those soft hands." Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies was speaking to Ricciardo at the time and responded: "That’s a bit scary." Verstappen then comically stated that he does "love a manicure, pedicure", before attention turned to the #3. "Woah, this is the three," said Ricciardo, before continuing after checking out the design: "Ah, c’est magnifique!" https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUTcpPSjGsF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== View this post on Instagram A post shared by Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing)

2026-02-04T07:25:00+01:00 2026-02-04T09:48:04+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-detail-key-factor-behind-historic-f1-turnaround Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has issued praise to everyone inside the team following what proved to be a successful end to last season. The Milton Keynes-based squad rose to the forefront of the grid in the final third of the campaign after slipping in the order in the middle of the year. Red Bull's blip allowed McLaren to stretch its legs at the head of the field, leaving four-time F1 champion Max Verstappen to largely be considered a non-contender in the title fight. After the Dutch GP at the end of August, Verstappen was 104 points adrift in the drivers' standings before going on a successful run that saw him score 10 consecutive podiums - including six race wins - leaving him just two points shy of a fifth successive title. Detailing the factors behind the turnaround, speaking to the media, including RacingNews365 , Mekies praised his team members not visible at the race track. “The credit for the turnaround, the spectacular turnaround of form, is very simple,” he said. “It's down to 2,000 people that you never see back in Milton Keynes, who simply didn’t want to give up.  “It didn’t matter how hard the first part of the season was, how hard the changes that were made in the middle of the season were for them to digest - it didn’t matter.  “They just didn’t want to give up. That’s what they have managed to achieve, a historic turnaround.  “They are the guys and girls behind the fact that everything started to click together.” Red Bull continued to develop its car late into the year and experimented with the set-up to provide Verstappen with the best tools possible to challenge for the title. While the decisions did not always pay off, Mekies defended Red Bull's risk approach to the battle. “They unlocked a little bit of performance, and a little bit more performance led to even more risk,” he said. “We fell quite a few times. I’m sure you guys recall Budapest. I’m sure you recall Brazil qualifying.  “You don’t take risks for free. Nothing is for free. You take risks, you fall, you get back on your feet, and you love the way you're going racing altogether.  “And everybody is in the same boat. Max is in the same boat, 2,000 people are in the same boat, our shareholders are in the same boat.  “That’s where the secret is - a united group that just doesn’t want to give up.”

2026-02-04T06:30:00+01:00 2026-02-03T16:50:30+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lewis-hamilton-record-breaking-eighth-f1-title-possible-under-one-condition Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert believes Lewis Hamilton does still have what it takes to win a record-breaking eighth drivers’ title — but only if the "stars are all aligned". Hamilton requires one further championship to eclipse Michael Schumacher’s seven, a total the Ferrari driver has been level on since 2020. The 41-year-old came agonisingly close to an unprecedented eighth crown in 2021 and would have secured the title had race director Michael Masi followed the rulebook at the time. Since then, little has gone Hamilton’s way, with the recent ground-effect era proving a real handful. Last year, his first with Ferrari, the veteran failed to secure a single podium for the first time in his career and finished 86 points adrift of team-mate Charles Leclerc. It has been questioned whether Hamilton still has what it takes to become world champion again as F1 enters a new era of power unit regulations. Herbert is convinced the 105-time race winner can claim another title, but that everything must come together for it to happen. Asked if Hamilton still has what it takes to win an F1 title, Herbert told RacingNews365 during an interview: "Well, I think yes, but you’ve got to have everything that you feel comfortable with working underneath you. So it really comes down to whether he gets that comfort in the car. "Because you never lose your race craft — the moves you make, the consistency you have, the ability to look after the tyres, or whatever it may be — you never lose that. "Raw pace, I think, is the first thing to go. Mistakes do start to come into play as you get a little bit older. Unfortunately, from my experience, that’s how it is. But that’s normal, to be perfectly honest. "So yes, I think if everything — the stars are all aligned — I think yes, that could definitely happen again."

2026-02-03T22:00:00+01:00 2026-02-04T08:11:12+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-not-considering-future-f1-team-boss-role-as-williams-show-2026-livery-racingnews365-review Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Max Verstappen has ruled out returning to Formula 1 in a management position once he retires as a driver in the category. The four-time world champion is currently contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2028 and has made it clear that he wants to compete in sports cars before his peak years pass. READ MORE: Max Verstappen rules out F1 return after retirement In photos: Williams show off new F1 livery for 2026 season Williams has unveiled the livery design it will use for the upcoming F1 season. The Grove-based squad has faced a difficult start to the year as it opted to skip the Barcelona shakedown, making it the only team yet to turn a lap this year. READ MORE: In photos: Williams show off new F1 livery for 2026 season Red Bull told of crucial focus areas to topple Mercedes 'strength' Red Bull has been told of two areas it must focus on if it wants to compete against Mercedes' power unit this year. Red Bull is entering its own engine for the first time in its history, developing it in association with Ford. READ MORE: Red Bull told of crucial focus areas to topple Mercedes 'strength' Adrian Newey explains Aston Martin design secrets breakthrough Adrian Newey has opened up for the first time on a car that became the talk of last week's Barcelona test, despite it only completing 65 laps. It was not until the final hour on the fourth day of the private five-day shakedown that the AMR26 broke cover, and it immediately raised eyebrows with what was perceived as an aggressive design philosophy. READ MORE: Adrian Newey explains Aston Martin design secrets breakthrough Oliver Bearman describes 'sad' realisation as new F1 truth hits Oliver Bearman has described his "sad" realisation about the reality of managing F1's new power units for the first time in testing. Although the 2026 power units feature three times as much electrical energy as in 2025, up to 350kw instead of the 120kw of last season, the batteries now provide a higher share of the total power output of the engine. READ MORE: Oliver Bearman describes 'sad' realisation as new F1 truth hits F1 to face 'bid it can't refuse' South African GP return deal South Africa's sports minister Gayton McKenzie has issued an update on the country's push to bring F1 back to the country. The nation has been attempting to strike a deal with the sport, having last held a grand prix in 1993. READ MORE: F1 to face 'bid it can't refuse' South African GP return deal

2026-02-03T20:00:00+01:00 2026-02-04T08:11:03+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/haas-outline-jack-doohan-challenge-after-completing-surprise-move Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu has outlined how "challenging" Jack Doohan’s move to the outfit is as its new reserve driver. It was announced on Tuesday that the former Alpine driver had joined Haas’ reserve pool, which currently features Ryo Hirakawa. Doohan’s competitive F1 debut came with Alpine in the 2024 season finale, before he went on to compete in the opening six rounds of last season. However, ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, he was returned to a reserve role within the Enstone-based team and replaced by Franco Colapinto. Following the 2025 season, Doohan left Alpine but was quickly snapped up by Haas. The Australian remains hungry to return to an F1 race seat — something Komatsu is well aware of. What the Haas boss also recognises, however, is the challenge Doohan faces in remaining ready to step into an F1 car at any given moment while also settling into a new team. "I’m personally very excited to have Jack join us on the team given the strength of his racing resume and of course his experience in being a reserve driver in Formula 1," said Komatsu. "The dedication required to remain sharp and prepared to race while getting to know how the team works and so on, it’s challenging for any driver – especially one who’s obviously still very keen to race again at this level.  "I’ve enjoyed getting to know Jack and we’re looking forward to welcoming him into the team and benefiting from his contributions."

2026-02-03T19:10:00+01:00 2026-02-04T08:10:54+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/colton-herta-praised-for-chasing-childhood-dream-in-f1-seat-pursuit Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Current IndyCar driver Kyle Kirkwood has praised Colton Herta for chasing his “childhood dream” by returning to Europe in pursuit of a Formula 1 seat. After seven seasons competing in IndyCar, Herta has taken the huge gamble of leaving the North American single-seater series for one final attempt at landing an F1 drive. Herta’s current challenge is his lack of super licence points, as he does not yet have the required total to compete in the pinnacle of motorsport. As a result, in addition to being Cadillac F1’s test driver, the 25-year-old will compete this year in Formula 2 with Hitech TGR. To be eligible for a 2027 F1 seat, the American driver needs to secure six super licence points, which can be achieved by finishing the championship in the top eight. Cadillac is heavily supporting Herta’s push to become an F1 driver, with Kirkwood, his former IndyCar team-mate, expressing incredible pride in him for chasing his dreams. Discussing his thoughts on Herta's move to F2, Kirkwood told RacingNews365 during an interview: "I’m proud of him for making that leap — it’s not easy.  "I can’t say that I would do the exact same thing, because I’m now 27 years old, but it’s going to be extremely interesting to watch his progression in the series.  "I don’t think it’s anything new for him, being in F2 or racing in Europe, because he’s raced F3 before. But him taking that leap now is something that takes a lot of courage, and I think we’re all proud of him here in the US for what he’s done. "He’s obviously shown a passion for F1 since he was a child, and he continued to show that while racing in IndyCar.  "So the fact that he’s now able to do it and has a shot at going after his childhood dream is really cool — and it’s great that it’s happening now."

2026-02-03T18:20:00+01:00 2026-02-04T08:10:46+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/george-russell-handed-major-distinction-ahead-of-2026-f1-season Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Former F1 driver Karun Chandhok has pinned George Russell as the favourite for the 2026 drivers’ title, believing that the Briton is "ready to be world champion". Following his move to Mercedes in 2022, the upcoming campaign — and the start of the new power unit regulations — represents Russell’s best chance yet at a world title. Mercedes is heavily tipped to be the initial team to beat, following its very successful running in Barcelona last week and its dominance the last time F1’s engines changed. The Silver Arrows won eight consecutive constructors’ titles from 2014 to 2021 after the turbo-hybrid power unit was introduced, convincing many that it will fly out of the blocks this year. A staggering 502 laps were completed during the five-day Barcelona test by the Brackley-based outfit, with Chandhok backing Mercedes and Russell heading into the season. Asked on talkSPORT if Russell is the title favourite, Chandhok replied: "Yes, I believe he’s the favourite, in my book anyway, for the world championship.  "Because we’ve got this big rule change, I think having a team where the engine power unit side and the chassis side are so integrated will be key to success. "Now, Ferrari and Mercedes are the two teams that have that, along with Red Bull and Audi. But Red Bull and Audi are brand-new power unit companies, so I think you have to cut them a bit of slack and give them some time. "But I think Mercedes and Ferrari, with that integrated structure, have got to have an advantage at the beginning of a rule cycle. So, to me, George Russell — in my opinion — was the second-best driver in F1 last year after Max Verstappen. He had an outstanding season. "I think he’s ready to be a championship contender if the car’s capable of it. I think he’s ready to be world champion."

2026-02-03T18:00:00+01:00 2026-02-03T17:46:35+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/the-annoying-what-ifs-frustrating-pascal-wehrleins-formula-e-season Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Pascal Wehrlein is finding it a "bit annoying" to have left every race so far this Formula E season asking himself "what if", with not a single weekend having gone to plan. Three races in, and three doses of frustration for the German, who has had something not go his way in each of São Paulo, Mexico City and Miami last weekend. In the Brazil season-opener at the start of December, Wehrlein had claimed pole but received a three-place grid penalty for wheelspinning in the pit lane, breaching Article 23.18 of the sporting regulations. He started and finished the race in fourth, before qualifying a shock 11th last month in Mexico City following a rare mistake at a venue where he had been so dominant over one lap. Wehrlein went on to recover to sixth at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, before being rocked by an issue in Miami from his very first lap in practice. This saw him start from 11th for a second consecutive race; however, impressive work by Porsche saw the cause of the issue discovered. Once an understanding of the fault was established, the Season 10 world champion managed to fight through the field to claim third, marking his first podium of the season. Crucially, despite facing his own issues, Wehrlein made significant gains in the title fight and now finds himself just two points adrift of Nick Cassidy, who failed to score a point, as did Oliver Rowland. Speaking after the race in Miami, Wehrlein told RacingNews365 : "It was a good result — it was hard work for us. We found an issue on the car, which put us on the back foot in terms of how we set up the car and everything for the weekend. "On one side, I’m obviously glad that we found it. On the other side, I also think that if the weekend had gone differently, it could have been a different weekend again. And, yeah, it feels like I haven’t had a clean weekend yet. There are always ‘what ifs’ after the race, after the weekend, which is a bit annoying. "But, yeah, big congratulations to the team and a big thank you, because basically, since lap one on Friday, I was saying that something felt odd with the car. They put a lot of effort into finding the issue, and it’s nice that we came out of this with a podium. "And, yeah, we move on from there. It’s still very early in the season, and we’re banking the points, which is important for the championship."

2026-02-03T17:30:00+01:00 2026-02-03T18:09:04+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-told-of-crucial-focus-areas-to-topple-mercedes-strength Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull has been told of two areas it must focus on if it wants to compete against Mercedes' power unit this year. Red Bull is entering its own engine for the first time in its history, developing it in association with Ford. The Milton Keynes-based squad has noted on the scale of the challenge it has undertaken on multiple occasions, with the power unit making its first on-track appearance last week at the Barcelona shakedown. Both Red Bull and Mercedes did not suffer any major complications at the test as they look to commence the sport's new era competing at the front of the field. Speaking to Sky F1 , Collins highlighted the early advantages that Mercedes possess heading into the upcoming season. “The challenge for Red Bull vs Mercedes, there's going to be a few,” she said. “The first one is in the reliability of that engine. Yes, it's ran these three days and we've not seen anything [wrong]. “But Mercedes running four cars is going to really build reliability numbers quickly on that engine, so that's one area they're going to have to look at. “As well, Mercedes in the past, and one of the reasons that we thought they would be very strong, is their understanding of how best to deploy and get the most out of the energy you have available in that engine.  “That has been a real strength for Mercedes when we got into this first hybrid era, and I think that will still be a strength for Mercedes.” However, Collins has backed Red Bull to take the challenge to Mercedes, noting the importance Max Verstappen and his feedback will play in the development of the engine. “So can Red Bull quickly enough learn the best way to get the most out of these engines and out of this era of formula,” he said. “Max is very well placed to do that, a lot because of how much sim racing he does in the background.  “[He is a] very, very intelligent driver. He will quickly start to give them feedback of where he thinks he should use the energy. “But those are two areas that they're going to have to continue to work on to close that gap to Mercedes, if it's there.”

2026-02-03T16:40:00+01:00 2026-02-03T18:08:56+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/williams-reveal-to-flushing-out-demons-as-mercedes-provide-vital-help Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com James Vowles has explained that all was not lost by Williams failing to run in last week's shakedown test in Barcelona. Despite the team being one of the first to stop development on last year's car, Williams was the only team that did not take to the track at the Circuit de Catalunya across the five available days of running. However, the Williams team principal has explained that his team was not idol, as it still conducted considerable running behind the scenes via the aid of a VTT [Virtual Track Test], an advanced simulation rig that tests a near-complete car - power unit, gearbox, and chassis - off-track to validate components and systems under simulated loads and conditions. Williams was also given a considerable helping hand by power unit supplier Mercedes, which ran for 502 reliable laps, providing invaluable data. McLaren and Alpine, two additional teams running on Mercedes power this year, added another 632 laps. On the day Williams launched its livery for this season, speaking to a select group of media, including RacingNews365, Vowles said: "I would much preferred to have been in Barcelona. That was the goal. That was what we were intending to do. We did not achieve it." Vowles hailed the VTT running as "successful", whilst drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon also ran extensively in the driver-in-the-loop simulator. "In addition, we are fortunate that Mercedes had sufficient runners that there was quite a bit of information coming back on both the gearbox and the power unit that enables us to get ahead when we come to Bahrain," added Vowles, referring to the two three-day tests coming up this month. "I do not believe, with six days of testing, will be on the back foot now. A little bit of that's fortune, because the power unit is reliable, the gearbox is reliable, and the VTT testing flushed out a lot of the demons that are buried in the car. "What's missing is a lot of knowledge for the drivers to inherently perfect what's going on on track. What's missing is a correlation for where our aerodynamics really are, and a correlation for where our vehicle dynamics really are. Track data is the only way of establishing that. "So there is a loss, but with six days of testing, with our driver-in-the-loop simulator that we invested in, which is state of the art and was up and running at the end of last year and is benchmarking the business, I'm very confident we are able to mitigate a lot of that [loss]." Bahrain set for 'high-level mileage' Vowles feels across the six days in Bahrain, the number of laps likely to be completed by all 11 laps will be considerable. He also believes that whilst Mercedes ran reliably, so did its rivals - Ferrari and Red Bull Powertrains, in particular - whilst there is clearly more to come from Audi and Honda.  "In terms of what my expectations are for Bahrain, first and foremost, we've seen the Mercedes power unit is reliable," he said. "Now there'll still be demons locked inside it. "That's what testing is for. That's why we have a further six days. So it's flushing those out, but it's already a good baseline to work with. Same with the gearbox. "What you'll see is mileage accumulation at a very high level, not what you would normally expect at the beginning of a whole new power unit era. "If you wind all the way back to 2014, Mercedes was again impressive in that regard, but most others weren't. That's part of the advantage that I think that's gone now. "I think you'll see a lot of PU manufacturers out of the box able to do the mileage. So now it's more about how do you optimise it? How do you use your electrical energy? How do you get the most out of the car?"

2026-02-03T15:50:00+01:00 2026-02-03T18:08:40+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/f1-to-face-bid-it-cant-refuse-south-africa-gp-return-deal Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com South Africa's sports minister Gayton McKenzie has issued an update on the country's push to bring F1 back to the country. The nation has been attempting to strike a deal with the sport, having last held a grand prix in 1993. F1 itself has voiced its desire to have an African race on the calendar, but South Africa is facing competition from Morocco and Rwanda. Amid the sport's boom in popularity, various other locations around the world have voiced their desire to have a spot on F1's schedule. As South Africa continues to plead its case, McKenzie conceded a 2027 race won't be possible.  “Next year, definitely not,” he told ENCA . “We have underestimated what is required to host an F1 event.” F1 has already started the implementation of a rotational calendar going forward, with the fan favourite Belgian Grand Prix switching to a race every two years from 2027. As South Africa bids to become the next team to get a deal over the line, McKenzie asserted it is compiling an offer that will be too good to turn down.  “But F1 has held our hand,” he said.  “But now we’ve got the experts and are putting together a bid they can’t refuse.”

2026-02-03T15:04:00+01:00 2026-02-03T18:08:33+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/in-photos-williams-show-off-new-f1-livery-for-2026-season Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Williams has unveiled the livery design it will use for the upcoming F1 season. The Grove-based squad has faced a difficult start to the year as it opted to skip the Barcelona shakedown, making it the only team yet to turn a lap this year. Following a motivating campaign in 2025 with Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon, Williams enter the new year hoping to take another step forward. Now, the squad has shown off the colour scheme it will use for the season ahead! View the new Williams F1 livery below!

2026-02-03T15:03:00+01:00 2026-02-03T18:08:25+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/williams-unveil-revised-livery-for-new-f1-era Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The Williams F1 team has unveiled its new-look livery for the upcoming season. The Grove-based squad has endured a difficult start to the year as it opted to skip the Barcelona shakedown event last week. IN PHOTOS: Williams show off new F1 livery for 2026 season Williams is now the only F1 team yet to turn a lap this year, having endured complications in the build-up to the season. However, it has since asserted it is ready for the preseason test in Bahrain next week. Williams enter the year with Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz forming its driver line-up for the second consecutive season. It ended the 2025 campaign fifth in the constructors' standings, marking its best result since the 2018 season. For the new year ahead, Williams has added a splash of white to the livery, as well as a lighter shade of blue to incorporate the newly announced partnership with Barclays. Providing his thoughts on the livery, Albon stated: “It’s always special to see a new livery for the first time, and the FW48 looks incredible. “The design really stands out – it’s bold, modern and unmistakably Atlassian Williams F1 Team. I can’t wait for the fans to see it on track and cheer us on in 2026.“ While the season ahead is Albon's fifth season with the team, it will mark Sainz's second. The Spaniard enjoyed a positive opening campaign with the squad, scoring two podiums across the year. “The FW48 livery is a real statement of our intent for 2026,” Sainz said.  “The design celebrates Atlassian Williams F1 Team’s heritage while embracing a fresh, dynamic look for the new era.  “I’m excited to race in this livery and to share the thrill with fans around the world - their support makes all the difference as we continue on our journey together.”

2026-02-03T14:15:00+01:00 2026-02-03T16:02:11+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/throwback-red-bull-endure-bizarre-f1-test-with-no-front-wing Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The build-up to the 2015 F1 season saw three pre-season tests take place - the first was at Jerez before a duo of outings in Barcelona. At Red Bull, the team was going through a significant change as it entered the year without Sebastian Vettel, who had opted to join Ferrari.  Replacing the four-time champion was Daniil Kvyat, who made the step up after his rookie season at Toro Rosso.  But the Russian driver endured a less than ideal start to his stint at the team. On Monday, February 2, 2015, during the second day of testing at Jerez, Kvyat damaged his car. The Russian hit the tyre pile between Turns 2 and 3 during an installation lap on the cold asphalt, damaging the RB11's only available front wing. "This kind of thing happens, but it happened at the wrong time," Kvyat acknowledged afterwards.  He explained that he was adjusting something on the steering wheel when it went wrong. Team boss Christian Horner described the incident as a light touch, but the consequences were dire.  Red Bull did not have a spare wing with them, something Horner said was "relatively common for this time of year" during early winter testing. Article continues below the image. Further testing without a wing Instead of pulling the car in, Red Bull decided to continue anyway. Kvyat eventually completed 18 laps without the front wing, albeit with a severely restricted program.  The goal was simple: to check that the car's systems were working properly. The experience itself was far from pleasant.  "The car is completely different. The downforce drops off almost completely,” Kvyat said. The front tyres slid considerably in the corners due to the lack of downforce. There were no indications that the FIA objected to Red Bull's emergency solution. After all, it was not a deliberate development experiment, but simply muddling through while waiting for spare parts from the factory in Milton Keynes.  Horner reported that the team should be able to resume normal testing on Tuesday morning once the new parts arrive. The incident did not provide Red Bull with any useful data, just an uncomfortable anecdote from Kvyat's first days with the team.

2026-02-03T13:25:00+01:00 2026-02-03T18:08:16+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/adrian-newey-explains-aston-martin-design-secrets-breakthrough Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Adrian Newey has opened up for the first time on a car that became the talk of last week's Barcelona test, despite it only completing 65 laps. It was not until the final hour on the fourth day of the private five-day shakedown that the AMR26 broke cover, and it immediately raised eyebrows with what was perceived as an aggressive design philosophy. RacingNews365 's technical expert, Paolo Filisetti, described the car as "a radical departure from every rival design", given what he noticed in many different areas . Newey, who joined Aston Martin last March as managing technical partner before becoming team principal in November, has conceded that for the first time since the team returned to F1, the car "is tightly packaged - much more tightly packaged than I believe has been attempted...before". Speaking in an interview on the Aston Martin website, he added: "This has required a very close working relationship with the mechanical designers to achieve the aerodynamic shapes we wanted. "But I have to say that all the mechanical designers here have really embraced that philosophy. It hasn't made their life easy, quite the opposite, but they've really risen to the challenge." Newey has shied away from pointedly describing the AMR26 as an aggressive interpretation of the new regulations that have come into effect for this season. Although renowed for his aggressive designs during his 19 years with Red Bull, Newey conceded: "I never look at any of my designs as aggressive. I just get on with things and pursue what we feel is the right direction. "The direction we've taken could certainly be interpreted as aggressive. It's got quite a few features that haven't necessarily been done before. Does that make it aggressive? Possibly. Possibly not." Aston Martin hit with 'back-foot fight' Newey has stated that "a holistic approach" was taken with the design of the car, openly revealing that even he cannot claim to be sure on "what the best interpretation of the regulations is and therefore the best philosophy to follow". He said: "Because of our compressed timescale, we decided on a particular direction and that’s the one we've pursued. Whether that proves to be the right one or not, only time will tell. But you have to choose your path and get on with it." Breaking down the design, he added: "It starts with the overall packaging of the car: where is the car carried over the wheelbase, where are the main masses carried. "Then it's worked through to the front and rear suspension – the front and rear suspension both have their own very important part to play in that manipulation of the flow field. "You've got the front wing and the nose shape, which are somewhat different this year. You keep moving through to the sidepods, and the treatment around the rear of the car, which is certainly different to what we've done previously. "Now, whether other people come up with a similar solution to ours, we don't know and we won't until we start seeing other people's cars. "We've just tried to pursue what we think is the correct direction for us. Other people might have pursued other directions. It's part of the excitement of new regulations, seeing what everybody comes up with." Part of the issues surrounding the car for Newey is that he did not start work with the team until two months after the regulations were first published. That had a knock-on effect, which placed Aston Martin behind the development curve compared to its rivals, and led to its late arrival for the shakedown in Barcelona. "The reality is that we didn’t get a model of the '26 car into the wind tunnel until mid-April, whereas most, if not all of our rivals would have had a model in the wind tunnel from the moment the 2026 aero testing ban ended at the beginning of January last year," remarked Newey. "That put us on the back foot by about four months, which has meant a very, very compressed research and design cycle. The car only came together at the last minute, which is why we were fighting to make it to the Barcelona shakedown."

2026-02-03T12:35:00+01:00 2026-02-03T18:08:03+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-rules-out-f1-return-after-retirement Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Max Verstappen has ruled out returning to Formula 1 in a management position once he retires as a driver in the category. The four-time world champion is currently contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2028 and has made it clear that he wants to compete in sports cars before his peak years pass. While it is entirely possible that Verstappen signs another new F1 deal, it is extremely likely that he will have moved on from Formula 1 by his mid-30s. Verstappen has given every indication that this will be the case, with the 28-year-old having not hidden his intent to compete in the World Endurance Championship. Once the Dutchman moves on from Formula 1, returning is not on his agenda in any management position. When the Red Bull driver’s career is over, his sights are already set on continuing to support simulator racers making the step into the real world. Asked on TAG Heuer’s On the Racetrack if he is passionate about anything outside of racing, Verstappen comically replied: "Racing. But not racing — not even necessarily myself. For example, one of my goals is to bring a simulated driver into the real world. "That happened this year already, and he’s doing very well. I just want to try to grow that project naturally, because that is definitely something that I enjoy a lot. "And, yeah, outside of Formula 1 in the future as well, because while I like being in F1 as a driver, I don’t think I would ever come back to F1 in a management role, let’s put it like that — but in a different kind of category, more like endurance racing. "Yes, I do see that happening and creating opportunities for young drivers who do not have the funds or, you know, the means to get into a real racing car, to try to make that step from the simulator world as well."

2026-02-03T11:45:00+01:00 2026-02-03T18:08:47+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/aston-martin-employee-doesnt-believe-his-eyes-this-newey-car Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com It is not often that an employee of a team takes to the public channels to express how impressed they are with something. Yet that is exactly what Neil Zambardi-Christie has done about the Aston Martin AMR26, designed and developed by Adrian Newey and his team. "The Aston Martin AMR26 - my 25th F1 car, but my first Adrian Newey car," Zambardi-Christie, a clearly experienced factory employee at Aston Martin and an F1 veteran, wrote on LinkedIn . "There have been some great cars over the years (and some shocking ones), but this one is of a whole other level. "The design and attention to detail are incredible, but what is even more impressive is the way the entire team has risen to the challenges of design and planning." After 19 years with Red Bull, Newey joined Aston Martin in May last year as its managing technical partner, with his primary brief to design this season's car, given the biggest change to the regulations in F1 history. He then took on the role of team principal in November. Although there have been delays in the car's development, it finally took to the track in the final hour on the fourth day of the private five-day test in Barcelona, and it immediately raised eyebrows .

2026-02-03T11:00:00+01:00 2026-02-03T16:01:57+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/former-alpine-f1-driver-joins-haas-in-new-role Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Former Alpine F1 driver Jack Doohan has joined Haas as a reserve driver for the 2026 campaign. Doohan competed at the opening six rounds of the 2025 season with Alpine, having made his debut for the team at the season-ending round in 2024. However, he was ousted in favour of Franco Colapinto after the Miami Grand Prix but remained part of the Alpine squad. Earlier this month, Alpine confirmed it had parted ways with Doohan, paving the way for the Australian to embark on a new challenge. The 23-year-old's next opportunity has come at Haas, where he will carry out reserve driver duties for the team. “I’m thrilled to be joining TGR Haas F1 Team,” said Doohan. “It’s the ideal place to continue my Formula 1 career.  “I would like to thank the team for giving me the opportunity to grow and take on the great challenge of 2026 together.  “I’m eager to begin working with the team and collaborating on a successful season.’” Doohan has joined Ryo Hirakawa as a reserve driver at the squad, and offers Haas another option to fall back on should Esteban Ocon or Oliver Bearman be unable to race.

2026-02-03T10:41:00+01:00 2026-02-03T16:01:47+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/ferrari-extends-historic-50-year-partnership Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Ferrari has confirmed the renewal and extension of its historic collaboration with brake supplier. The new deal continues the remarkable partnership between the two companies that has lasted for over 50 years. For this year, the association is further strengthened by the fact that Brembo becomes Ferrari's technical partner in major international competitions. As revealed by Ferrari: "The agreement will cover not only Scuderia Ferrari HP in Formula 1, but also the Ferrari Hypercar project, which is competing in the FIA World Endurance Championship. "Brembo will thus also accompany the sporting journey of the 499P, which made its debut in 2023, and was capable of bringing the Endurance Constructors' title back to Maranello in 2025 after 53 years. "In 2026, Brembo will supply the entire braking system, including hydraulic and friction components, for Ferrari's Formula 1 single-seaters and Hypercars, providing solutions designed to meet the most extreme demands of modern competition. "The renewal of the agreement confirms the shared commitment of Ferrari and Brembo to pursuing the highest standards of innovation, quality and performance, elements that have always distinguished the technological and sporting paths of both brands."

2026-02-03T10:10:00+01:00 2026-02-03T16:01:38+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/audi-prepared-to-suffer-failures-in-ultimate-mercedes-and-ferrari-f1-pursuit Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Audi chief Mattia Binotto believes the team's power unit can be as successful as Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda, but that it must be prepared to endure failures. The Ingolstadt-concern has joined the grand prix grid as one of two new power unit manufacturers in 2026, along with Red Bull Powertrains, which has a technical alliance with Ford. During the pre-season shakedown test in Barcelona, Audi recorded a total of 240 laps, with its running limited by gremlins for Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. The team has signalled that it is looking to challenge for the world titles by 2030, and become a class-leading power unit supplier, but to do so, it will have to topple the might of Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda. Between them, the three manufacturers have won 576 races, 50.13% of all 1,149 world championship grands prix to date, 35 drivers' and 34 constructors' titles. However, chief technical and chief operating officer Binotto believes that in time, and after teething troubles, Audi can become the class-leader in F1.  "They've got the most experience, they are settled-down organisations and if a team or manufacturer was great in the past, they will remain great in the future, there is no doubt," Binotto explained of Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda. "They are very strong competitors, it will be a very difficult challenge for us, but on the other side, I think we've got all the means to become, one day, successful and becoming the benchmark powertrains as well. "I'm not expecting our powertrains to be the best at the start, that would be impossible and unrealistic, but I think we are on our journey and we need to stay focused on ourselves. "Our task to be successful by 2030 may be perceived as a long way away, but it is not, it is tomorrow and the day after and we are staying focused on ourselves and staying humble. "We may face problems during the season, we may face reliability failures, but what will count most for me is the team reacting properly, with no stone left unturned and learning from the problem and showing capacity in progressing. "If we will be capable of progressing race-by-race, no doubt with the means we have got, with the full commitment of Audi as a brand, we may become as strong as the other, if not better."

2026-02-03T09:50:00+01:00 2026-02-03T16:01:29+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/williams-bank-new-partner-to-unite-two-british-icons Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Williams has announced a partnership with British bank Barclays for the upcoming F1 campaign. The Grove-based squad is preparing for the new season under fresh technical rules and is due to make its on-track debut at the Barcelona test next week. In the build-up to the new campaign, it has confirmed a new deal with Barclays who has become its official banking partner. With the bank founded over 325 years ago, Williams has described the deal as one that unites “two British icons” as the squad looks ot rebuild back towards the front of the grid. “We are delighted to welcome Barclays into the sport as Official Banking Partner to Atlassian Williams F1 Team,” said  “As we prepare for one of the most significant regulatory changes in Formula 1 history, we’re preparing to seize the opportunities of the new era together with Barclays as we continue investing for long-term success.”  Barclays' logo will feature throughout the Williams' team attire, as well as on the livery of the FW48 challenger.

2026-02-03T09:15:00+01:00 2026-02-03T13:01:57+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/george-russell-wary-of-sexy-aston-martin-after-spectacular-adrian-newey-influence Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com George Russell has conceded to being wary of Adrian Newey's "pretty spectacular" debut car with Aston Martin, but has warned that F1's new era is not about the sexiest design. Following a delay in revealing its car, waiting until the final hour of the penultimate day of the five days of last week's pre-season test in Barcelona, Aston Martin and Newey finally showed their hand. After joining Aston Martin in March last year, following 19 years with Red Bull, F1's greatest designer focused solely on the major regulation changes for this season, and developing a car to finally propel Aston Martin to the front. Newey's AMR26 caught the eye and raised eyebrows in equal measure, given the fundamental differences in design compared to cars from other teams seen on track over the previous few days. Russell, whose Mercedes team topped the lap-count chart with its W17, as he and team-mate Kimi Antonelli accounted for 502 laps, was one of those left impressed, although he also sounded a note of caution.  "The Aston Martin was probably the most standout in terms of the car design," said Russell, speaking to select media, including RacingNews365 . "I think everybody was looking at that rear suspension, and obviously, visually it looks very impressive, but it's not a competition of how sexy it is. "It's a competition of how fast it goes around the track. People always look towards the fastest car, and we'll find that out in Melbourne. Whoever that is, that will be the car that you wish to try and take inspiration from." Russell wants 'best-case scenario' It was clear from the test at the Circuit de Catalunya that, despite the rules overhaul, the big names appear to be those at the head of affairs. Russell is relishing the prospect of a multi-way championship battle, should it head in that direction. "The best case scenario for the sport, and also for the drivers, is that you've got a number of different drivers and a number of different teams all battling it out," said Russell. "At the moment, it does look like Red Bull, McLaren, Ferrari and ourselves are, let's say, the four teams that are all quite close to one another. "But you can't discount what you've seen from Aston Martin, and what Adrian has done with that car. It looks pretty spectacular. "And Honda, over the past few years with Red Bull, have had a very good engine beneath them, so we also know what they're capable of, so it would be awesome to see a big fight. "I remember 2010 when the McLarens, Fernando and the Red Bulls were all fighting. That's what the sport is about, and that's what we hope it will be about."

2026-02-03T08:20:00+01:00 2026-02-03T10:26:20+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/charles-leclerc-voices-ferrari-excitement-after-barcelona-shakedown Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Charles Leclerc has stated the most prominent emotion in F1 right now is “excitement” after the new cars hit the track for the first time last week. The Barcelona shakedown event at the Circuit de Catalunya saw Ferrari tally 435 laps across its allowed three days of running - second only to Mercedes. Ferrari is hoping the new era will bring about a shift up the pecking order, with its last title success now stretching back a staggering 18 years to 2008. After getting its season up and running, Leclerc declared there is a mood of anticipation in the Ferrari camp. "I think there's a lot of excitement, not only in Ferrari but I think around the whole paddock,” he said. "It's an exciting time for Formula 1 where there's so much change that we've got to adapt as drivers, we've got to adapt as teams and try and find ways to maximise what is now our new package. “Especially with this energy management that is so much more important compared to the past.” Bahrain will host the next two three-day pre-season tests this month, where a pecking order may become easier to establish. With many teams using Barcelona to test their systems rather than seek to extract pace from the car, Leclerc insisted it is too early to draw conclusions. "So yeah, excitement but apart from that not so much more, I mean it's still very, very early days,” he said. “Just really looking forward to seeing what we'll learn in Bahrain and just focus on ourselves for now."

2026-02-03T07:25:00+01:00 2026-02-04T09:11:31+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/toto-wolff-explains-sombre-mood-after-painful-mercedes-humiliation Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Toto Wolff has explained why he is keen to downplay expectations for Mercedes in 2026 following the 'humiliation' suffered in the last rules change. Throughout the winter, Wolff's team had been regarded as favourites for F1's new era, with the new engine rules named as a major factor given the success Mercedes enjoyed during the last major engine shake-up for 2014. That started a run of eight consecutive constructors' crowns, and seven drivers' titles before the team was toppled in 2022 by the ground-effect rules. For the second pre-season test four years, Mercedes brought a zero sidepod design which ultimately proved to be floored as Red Bull stole the mantle of 'team to beat' from the Brackley squad. Although Mercedes was able to finish as runner-up in the constructors' in two of the four ground effect years, it only won a total of seven races, and went winless in 2023, for the first time since 2011. After the first 2026 test in Barcelona, Mercedes emerged with its reputation as the favourites enhanced with a bullet-proof and fast three days, although Lewis Hamilton pipped his former team to the outright fastest time on the final day for Ferrari. Addressing the media after the test, Wolff was in a sombre, reflective mood as he explained why he did not want to come across a shattering "realisation" in Bahrain testing, or the first race in Australia. "Failure is such a harsh word, and we're into these regulations for the next few years, and how I'd like to see [progress] is the way we're thinking about it is not optimisation on a weekend or in a season, but seeing an upward trajectory," Wolff told media, including RacingNews365. "I am certain there will be challenges, our own challenges, and the relative performance against the others, but let's see how it goes and if we have a car with the potential to fight for a championship. "But I am a glass-half-empty person, I am wary and skeptical. I am always skeptical about performance; I've too often set my expectations in the wrong place. "I just don't want to come to a realisation in Bahrain, or in Melbourne, that we are not what we thought we are going to be, and that is a race winner. "We are enthused going into this new environment, and obviously, you wake up with more of a smile if your car is quick, and the early indications are positive that at least the car doesn't look like a turd, and we're in the midfield, it looks like we have something we can build on." The article continues below.  Why Wolff is dampening expectations When asked why he was keen to lower expectations so much, Wolff pointed to the "painful" experience of 2022 and the flawed 'zeropod' design.  "It is expectation management. When we came out with our car in 2022, we expected to put one-and-a-half seconds on the car with the zeropod concept at the second test, and that failed," he added. "We didn't see the problem that problem coming, which was linked to it, and that was the heavy porpoising and not being able to run low and being too stiff, but I am sure there will be other challenges thrown at us from all directions. "You learn more from the days you lose than the days you win because you dig deeper because it is painful and humiliating. "So that is why I want to dampen the expectations, our internal and external expectations, and reduce the pressure, because it is going to be a difficult ride."

2026-02-03T06:30:00+01:00 2026-02-03T10:25:44+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-explains-final-decision-over-controversial-lando-norris-oscar-piastri-team-orders Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com McLaren boss Andrea Stella has explained the team's decision not to change its controversial 'papaya rules' heading into the 2026 season.  As Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri fought for the 2025 title, flashpoints occurred at Monza and in Singapore, with the racing guidelines between the pair called into question. Both drivers, and the team claimed that the coverage around 'papya rules' was overblown, but in the United States, Piastri claimed that Norris had received "consequences" for barging past and making contact in Singapore on the opening lap. Ultimately, Norris went onto win the title following a late collapse in form for Piastri, with McLaren securing back-to-back constructors' titles for the first time since 1990-1991.  Looking ahead to the new season, team principal Stella is following a firm 'if it isn't broke, don't fix it' mantra. "First of all, the way we approach racing, we talked last year quite a bit about internal racing at McLaren, so let me say from that point of view, we will enter 2026 with continuity," Stella told media, including RacingNews365. "We will keep racing the McLaren way. If we have been able to achieve success in 2024, and then in 2025, what has added extra value to what we have achieved is the way in which we have achieved it in such a collaborative, supportive and cohesive way with our drivers. "I've actually come straight from a meeting with Oscar, and before I was having lunch with Lando, and I was particularly pleased to see how energetic, proactive and full of ideas [they were]. "But also full of support to the way we have gone racing, the McLaren way, in the past, so that is the perspective of going into 2026 racing from a team point of view."

2026-02-02T22:00:00+01:00 2026-02-03T01:05:48+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/toto-wolff-delivers-get-shit-together-attack-as-aston-martin-signs-f1-champion---racingnews365-review Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Toto Wolff launches fierce criticism at F1 rivals after accusations: 'Get your shit together' Toto Wolff is far from impressed with rival engine manufacturers in the build-up to the new season. READ MORE: Toto Wolff launches fierce criticism at F1 rivals after accusations: 'Get your shit together' Aston Martin signs F1 world champion to key new position Aston Martin has signed an F1 world champion to a key new role with the team. READ MORE: Aston Martin signs F1 world champion to key new position Oscar Piastri fires early 2026 title warning after late McLaren collapse Oscar Piastri looked set to claim the 2025 title before a late loss of form had him slip to third in the final standings. READ MORE: Oscar Piastri fires early 2026 title warning after late McLaren collapse George Russell delivers Max Verstappen title desire as striking Red Bull prediction made George Russell is keen to get himself involved in a title fight this year as the sport enters a new era. READ MORE: George Russell delivers Max Verstappen title desire as striking Red Bull prediction made McLaren keen to 'manipulate' return of key F1 trick in title fight McLaren believes the return of an old F1 trick in 2026 could offer key opportunities to find performance. READ MORE: McLaren keen to 'manipulate' return of key F1 trick in title fight

2026-02-02T20:00:00+01:00 2026-02-02T20:27:13+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/cadillac-handed-f1-goal-it-would-be-an-incredible-achievement Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Former F1 driver Karun Chandhok has stated it would be an “incredible achievement” for Cadillac to escape the Q1 drop zone early in the year. Cadillac has joined the grid as an 11th team this year and made its debut last week at the Barcelona shakedown. The team ran into various issues, but the team asserted it was expecting to run into difficulties as it got itself up and running. With the opening round of the year in Australia just one month away, Chandhok is not expecting Cadillac to set the world alight, stating an early-season Q2 appearance can be considered a success. “Cadillac is in a really interesting position, they’ve recruited so many people from other teams,” he told Sky F1 . “A lot from Enstone, it has to be said. The fact that Nick Chester and Rob White are the two technical leaders, along with Pat Simmons as a technical consultant, they’re all ex-Enstone. “They’ve had a bit of an exodus of people following them. It's one of the stories I'm most interested in this year. “Just to see, can they get out of Q1 in the early part of the season? Honestly, if they can do that in the first quarter of the season, even get out of Q1, that would be an incredible achievement.” Cadillac enter the year with Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez as its driver line-up as the American squad opted for an experienced set-up. Chandhok insisted it was the right way to go, using Aston Martin and Williams as examples of how difficult it is to succeed. “It’s not a cutting-edge risky option that Cadillac gone for, but I think it's the right option,” he said. “They’ve got so many other variables at play. I drove for two of the start-up teams in 2010 and 2011 who both went pop. “It’s so hard to arrive into F1 with a new team, because the level of every team is so high. “Now you've got the likes of Aston Martin and Williams, two fantastic teams struggling to make it to the track [in Barcelona]. “It’s such a high level that everyone's operating at.”

2026-02-02T19:05:00+01:00 2026-02-02T18:49:53+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/oliver-bearman-describes-sad-realisation-as-new-f1-truth-hits Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Oliver Bearman has described his "sad" realisation about the reality of managing F1's new power units for the first time in testing. Although the 2026 power units feature three times as much electrical energy as in 2025, up to 350kw instead of the 120kw of last season, the batteries now provide a higher share of the total power output of the engine. There is an equal 50-50 split between internal combustion engine and batteries, with Bearman completing 148 of Haas's 387 laps in Barcelona, as the team learned about its customer Ferrari power unit for the first time.  Detailing his initial takeaways from the test in Spain, Bearman, going into his second full-time season, believes the "most annoying" thing about the new rules is the energy management, something he also labelled as "sad." "I mean, Barcelona is probably one of the more extreme circuits," Bearman told select media, including RacingNews365 , when asked for his initial feelings on the new regulations.  "It is more of an energy-starved track with not many real braking zones, so it is a bit more challenging to harvest the energy that we need. "I would say that the best aspect is that the car is a bit lighter, it feels a bit more nimble, but you still have an incredible amount of downforce. "We've been blessed in the last few years to probably have one of of the most downforce heavy and producing cars that we've had in history, so the new regulations were always going to be a step back, but it is still impressive, and this was just the launch car that we were driving in Barcelona, there is still a long way to go in finding downforce. "The annoying thing is definitely the energy management, the clipping and all these sorts of things. "It is definitely more than we're used to, but that's a given considering the reliance on the electrical [power] compared to the previous generation, so it is to be expected. "But, actually feeling it in reality for the first time, is a little bit sad, but it is one of those things."

2026-02-02T18:25:00+01:00 2026-02-02T18:51:35+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-dangerous-game-as-sexy-aston-martin-questioned-2 Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com iFglS-o-W7c

2026-02-02T18:10:00+01:00 2026-02-02T18:51:21+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-dangerous-game-as-sexy-aston-martin-questioned Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Join RacingNews365's Ian Parkes and Nick Golding, as they look back on last week's five-day F1 test in Barcelona. McLaren's upgrade strategy is discussed, as is Aston Martin grabbing much attention with its striking AMR26. Rather watch the podcast? Then  click here!

2026-02-02T17:30:00+01:00 2026-02-02T20:26:57+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/kimi-antonelli-spies-potential-2026-advantage-in-new-f1-speed-chess-era Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Kimi Antonelli believes the new era of F1 could present opportunities for younger drivers to adapt more quickly to the "speed chess" of the regulations.  Antonelli is starting his second season in grand prix racing in 2026, in the first year of the regulation overhaul, with cars featuring new power units and smaller, narrower chassis with active aerodynamics. The Italian, who finished seventh in his rookie season, believes that the new breed of car could actually aid the younger drivers who made their debuts in 2025, owing to the requirement placed on them to jump into new cars every year as they climb the ranks of the junior categories, as he described the new cars as akin to playing "speed chess" with rivals. "For all the rookies who joined F1 last year, I think coming into this year with a new car is good, because obviously we've been used to driving a different car every year [in junior formulas]," Antonelli told select media, including RacingNews365.  "We've been trying to adapt as quickly as possible because it is a reset for everyone and maybe it'll help us to understand the car quicker than others, but of course, the other drivers are not stupid. "They're pretty good, so they will figure it out pretty quickly as well, but also, with the energy management and the way you have to race, the way you have to use your energy will be a very big step. "You have to come into the season very open-minded and need to be very creative as well, because you can play so much with the energy, especially when fighting other people, it is like playing chess, but a kind of speed chess. "You don't have much time to think about every move, but this year, you always have to try to be two steps ahead of the others, especially when fighting. "When you are planning an overtake or defending, you always have to be two steps ahead of the other and try to force him into doing something, so there is a lot to play with, and that is why you have to be really open-minded and even more creative at times."

2026-02-02T16:38:00+01:00 2026-02-02T20:26:32+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-keen-to-manipulate-return-of-key-f1-trick-in-title-fight Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com McLaren believes "there will be more freedom to manipulate" a key F1 car trick in the new generation of rules. In 2026, the new cars feature the return of the 'rake' - a trick where the front of the car is run lower to the ground than the rear in a bid to increase downforce, and thus performance. This was a constant presence during the 2017-2021 rules cycle, before the ground effects era took away the trick as the floors were required to be as flat as possible from front to back to generate the downforce. The reigning constructors' champions believe that the 2026 cars are a halfway house between the two philosophies, but that there will be "more freedom" to finetune the set-up.  "The 2021 and earlier cars, in terms of the way they looked, the cars were set up with higher ride heights, then we went into the 2022-2025 era with the underfloor tunnels and aerodynamic performance," performance technical director Mark Temple, who was previously race engineer to Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, explained to media including RacingNews365.  "In terms of the aerodynamic characteristics for 2026, we are somewhere between the two. It is neither one nor the other, and it is also not exactly in-between them.  "I think it will be a bit less as you don't have the extreme sensitivity to ride height that we had in previous years, and there will be more freedom to manipulate the car attitude to affect the handling without making the car go slower. "It is still a Formula 1 car, the fundamental principles are still there, the power unit performance, the aerodynamic performance and how well you exploit the tyres. "These are the primary performance differentiators in terms of if the aerodynamic packages will translate from our tools to delivering on track.  "There are some aspects of the new regulations that make the aerodynamics more complicated, and I'm not sure unpredictable is the word, but let's say it will be harder to predict on track, and part of that is being relatively early in the regulation cycle."

2026-02-02T16:15:00+01:00 2026-02-03T16:01:12+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/aston-martin-signs-f1-world-champion-to-key-new-position Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Aston Martin has announced the signing of Jenson Button as team ambassador ahead of the 2026 F1 season. Button, the 2009 world champion, spent six seasons racing for Honda between 2003 and its 2008 withdrawal from F1, with the Japanese manufacturer returning for this season. It is partnering up with Aston Martin in an effective works engine deal for F1's new regulations, with the aggressive Adrian Newey-designed AMR26 breaking cover for the first time on Thursday of the Barcelona shakedown test.  Button, who is also an advisor to the Williams team, will represent Aston Martin at "global events, partner programmes and media engagements, bringing his perspective, credibility and passion for the sport to the team’s growing international audience," according to a team statement. The news means Button will be reunited with former McLaren team-mate Fernando Alonso, with the two leading the failed McLaren-Honda programme between 2015-2016, before Button retired from full-time racing, making a one-off appearance at the 2017 Monaco GP to replace Alonso, who was competing at the Indy 500. "Joining Aston Martin during such a transformative time in the team and the sport’s history is really exciting for me," said Button, who claimed his first F1 win with Honda in 2006.  "Honda’s new works partnership with the team was a huge draw, and I look forward to bringing my years of experience working with them to my new role as ambassador.  "The 2026 season is going to be fascinating, and being part of such an ambitious team is a real opportunity. I can’t wait for Melbourne." Managing director of commercial at Aston Martin, Jefferson Slack added that Button "will be a valuable asset as we continue building this team for long-term success" with "an outstanding ability to connect with fans and partners around the world."

2026-02-02T15:40:00+01:00 2026-02-02T20:26:09+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/audi-wary-of-critical-car-element-after-barcelona-issues Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Audi F1 boss Mattia Binotto asserted the team knows it is “critical” to get on top of its reliability concerns before the start of the season. Audi has faced various challenges throughout the course of the week in Barcelona where the car was put through its initial paces. It managed just 27 laps on Monday, but more laps were tallied on Thursday and Friday as the German manfuacturer rounded out the shakedown event. Despite the issues it faced during the week, Binotto outlined valuable data was collected. “First, it was emotional,” Binotto said. “It was the very first official testing for Audi in F1.  “For us, it’s the beginning of our experience as a team, as a power unit manufacturer. “I would sum up that there is a lot to learn, and we are learning a lot. If you look at the very first day, [there were] a lot of problems stopping us, slowing down our run plan, as well on day two. “Finally I would say today, after day two afternoon, having some good running. There were some problems this morning, but still some mileage done, some laps done, valuable data for the team.” The car will take to the track once again in two weeks at the Bahrain pre-season test. Understanding that there is a lot of room for growth, Binotto suggested Audi's primary focus will be on sorting its reliability concerns. “We are all very, very happy,” he declared. “We are all committed but we know as well that there is for us a lot to build, a lot to grow. “The more we run the more we learn and I think we are really in that stage. “We know for us there is a lot to build, a lot to grow. These three days of running have been very important. We are doing well for where we are in our journey. “The reliability is always very critical. We had several problems – small ones, not dramatic -  but there are a lot of positives and we are looking forward.”

2026-02-02T14:50:00+01:00 2026-02-02T20:25:38+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/martin-brundle-backs-key-f1-battle-to-get-feisty-in-2026 Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Former F1 driver Martin Brundle has suggested the on-track battle between Mercedes and McLaren could get “feisty” this year. McLaren has enjoyed a strong run of form across the last two seasons, winning back-to-back constructors’ championships. It also triumphed in the fight for the drivers’ title last year with Lando Norris, with all of its recent success coming while using a Mercedes power unit. As Mercedes look to return to the forefront of the pecking order this year, Brundle suggested the team will be eager to establish itself over its customer team. “Can you imagine when Toto goes into a board meeting at Mercedes HQ, and they mention that McLaren, their customer team, has won the last two world championships,” Brundle told Sky F1 . “In 2025, they absolutely dominated it with nearly twice as many points as the next runner. I don’t think Toto enjoys that a whole lot. “He’s a supremely competitive man, and he’ll be looking to put one over on McLaren.” The Mercedes power unit proved to be reliable at the Barcelona shakedown event last week, tallying over 1,100 laps with Mercedes, McLaren and Alpine. The Mercedes team is the early pick of many for success this year - but as McLaren look to defend its title success, Brundle thinks the battle could become intense. “The regulations control how they can’t just be the works team and then give the customer teams a substandard product. It’s very, very tightly controlled in that respect,” he said. “They’ve had advanced knowledge of pretty much everything on that power unit, as it’s been developed and used in the simulator for months and months now. “I’m sure they only tell McLaren what they have to tell them as late as they can get away with, you’d imagine -  I would if I were them. “That supremely competitive, Mercedes will be desperate to beat McLaren this year, and McLaren, of course, vice versa. “That could get pretty feisty. But then if Mercedes can’t win with their car, they’d rather it be another team with their power unit.”

2026-02-02T13:55:00+01:00 2026-02-03T08:19:02+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/george-russell-delivers-max-verstappen-title-desire-as-striking-red-bull-prediction-made Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com George Russell has outlined his desire to go head-to-head with Max Verstappen for the F1 title this year. Mercedes impressed with its car at the pre-season shakedown event from Barcelona last week, tallying the most laps of any team and running into no major issues. The Brackley-based squad has long been predicted by many to emerge as front-runners this year as the sport sees the introduction of fresh regulations. Although no conclusions can be made over the pecking order, Red Bull also impressed at the Barcelona test with its brand new power unit. Russell has been labelled as the early title favourite for the year ahead, but does not believe the tag adds any extra pressure on his shoulders. “I’d love for it to turn out that way and I do want to go head-to-head with Max,” Russell told media including RacingNews365 . “Lando [Norris] had a great season last year, but no, it didn't add any more pressure. “Probably the fans and people were expecting potentially Mercedes vs McLaren, because there was a lot of anticipation that Mercedes would clearly have the best power unit. “But it seems like the other power unit manufacturers have done a good job and we know that Red Bull has always had an amazing car. “Even through the years of dominance of Mercedes, it was their engine that was letting them down, not their car. “We know how good Max is. He’s very much going to be in the fight this year, that is great.” The last time there was a significant regulation change in 2014, Mercedes emerged as the runaway leader and dominated F1 for several years. Russell asserted he does not want an “easy” route to the title and is relishing the prospect of a championship battle. “You obviously wish that you'd have a slightly easier time of it, but it should never be easy. “If you're going to win, you want to have fought for it and won it fair and square on track.”

2026-02-02T13:30:00+01:00 2026-02-02T20:24:27+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mercedes-bolster-f1-line-up-with-new-driver-signing Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mercedes has announced the signing of Joshua Durksen to a development driver role for the 2026 season. The 22-year-old will assist Mercedes throughout the campaign as the Brackley-based squad hopes to embark on a successful season. Durksen spent the last two seasons racing in Formula 2 with AIX Racing, taking four wins and 12 podiums during his stint. The Paraguayan will return to the category this year with Invicta Racing, who has won the last two drivers' and constructors' championships. Durksen will join Doriane Pin, who was previously announced in the role, as a development driver. Mercedes has outlined that Durksen's duties will include simulator duties and several days of Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) running alongside his F2 programme. Additionally, retired driver Anthony Davidson, who has long been associated with Mercedes, will continue his simulator support and simulator driver roster management role.

2026-02-02T13:00:00+01:00 2026-02-03T16:00:59+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/toto-wolff-launches-fierce-criticism-at-f1-rivals-after-accusations-get-your-shit-together Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mercedes CEO and team principal Toto Wolff has hit back at rival teams amid rumblings about a compression ratio trick with its new power unit. This year, part of the power unit changes has seen a compression decrease to 16:1 from the previous 18:1 level. The compression ratio relates to the largest and smallest volume in the cylinder, but can only be measured when the car is at ambient temperatures in the pit lane. In the build-up to the new F1 season, it was reported that Mercedes has uncovered a way to operate the power unit at a higher level while on-track, which could provide it a significant boost in lap time. Meetings have been held to discuss the concern, but Wolff has asserted that Mercedes has had reassurances from the FIA that its power unit is legal. “I just don't understand why some teams concentrate more on the others and keep arguing a case that is very clear and transparent,” Wolff told media including RacingNews365. “Communication with the FIA was very positive all along. It's not only on compression ratio but on other things too. “And specifically in that area, it's very clear what the regulation say, it’s very clear what the standard procedures are on any motors, or even outside of F1.” Mercedes enjoyed a positive Barcelona shakedown last week, tallying 500 laps across the three days of running - the most of any team. It heads into the new campaign as the early favourites and will take to the track again next week at pre-season testing in Bahrain. Wolff called on rival power unit manufacturers to focus on their own projects rather than attempting to dismantle Mercedes' work. “So just get your shit together,” he declared.  “They are just doing secret meetings and sending secret letters and keep trying to invent ways of testing that just don't exist. “I can just say at least from us here we are trying to minimize distractions. Minimizing distractions is looking more at us than everybody else when it’s pretty clear what the regulations say and also pretty clear what the FIA has said to us. “We're all different. Maybe you want to find you want to find excuses before you’ve even started when things are not good. “Everybody needs to do it at the best of their ability. But that is not how we would do things, especially when you’ve been told enough times that it’s fine. “If somebody wants to entertain themselves by distraction, then everybody's free to do this.” Mercedes 'robust' over F1 engine legality As the new season ticks closer, the true pace of Mercedes power unit will be soon be realised as a pecking order is established. With the German manufacturer tipped to be a front-runner, Wolff asserted there is no shred of doubt regarding the power unit's legality. “The power unit is legal,” he said in response to a question from RacingNews365 . “The power unit corresponds to how the regulations are written.  “The power unit corresponds to how the checks are being done. The power unit corresponds of how these things are measured in any other vehicle and everything else I can't judge upon. “That's how we see the world today, and that's what the FIA said. That's what the president of the FIA said, and he knows a bit about that.  “In that respect, let's wait and see. But we feel robust.”

2026-02-02T12:00:00+01:00 2026-02-02T20:24:02+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/esteban-ocon-raises-early-concerns-over-new-f1-era Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Esteban Ocon has raised early concerns over the new F1 cars, suggesting overtaking may be more difficult than anticipated. The F1 cars are going through a major change this year, with the aerodynamic and power unit rules getting a significant overhaul. Ocon took the Haas car out onto the track for the first time at the Barcelona shakedown last week, as the VF26 tallied almost 400 laps across three days. The Frenchman used the test to experiment with the new car, including the new overtake mode, which offers a boost in energy when within one second of the car ahead. Offering his initial assessment, Ocon told media including RacingNews365 : “I've been following a few cars - you seem to lose quite a lot of front load, a bit more. We need to see.  “The overtake, yes, I played with it. I don't want to give too early conclusions on how it's going to be because obviously it needs to be adjusted, optimised, etc., for that to work in a perfect way.  “But so far, it looks to be difficult to pass. That's my first thought about it, but I hope it's going to get on the easier side.” Ocon questions new active aerodynamics system Ocon also raised questions over the new active aerodynamics systems that have been introduced in F1 this year. As part of the regulation overhaul, the front and rear wing elements change their angle of attack when on the straights to reduce drag. They then change shape when a drive enters a corner to offer extra downforce. However, Ocon stated the movable wings can be compared to the Drag Reduction System (DRS) that was scrapped for 2026. “The active aero, to be honest, I'm a little bit disappointed with that because it's just DRS with the front. “We are using it all the time, so it's more of an efficiency thing than really something that's giving us much more tools to play with and stuff like that.  “Of course, we have little tweaks that we can do, but I would have preferred that we could set the front flap as we want for every corner before we were driving.  “That's what I call active aero. The Pagani Huayra some years ago had active aero on the front, and it was setting it up for whatever corners you were taking and what you were needing in terms of balance.  “That's what I call active aero more than DRS, which we have in the front. It's cool, but I think we could use it to another extent.” When the matter was raised once again with Ocon by RacingNews365 , the Frenchman backtracked and admitted his words were “a bit extreme”.  He added: “Let's say I'm not disappointed, but I think we could have used it in a better way.”

2026-02-02T11:05:00+01:00 2026-02-02T20:23:51+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-drops-knowing-clue-over-key-red-bull-unknown Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Max Verstappen "looks quietly confident" over the potential of Red Bull's in-house engine and has dropped a little clue about its true performance, according to Bernie Collins. For 2026, Red Bull is using its own in-house power unit for the first time, with the RBPT-Ford design clocking up 622 laps in Barcelona across both Red Bull and Racing Bulls. The engine, also used by Racing Bulls in a pre-Barcelona shakedown at Imola, ran reliably with no failures in Spain, with the only concern for Red Bull being Isack Hadjar's Day 2 crash. The RBPT engine was expected to be off the pace of Ferrari and Mercedes, especially, with former boss Christian Horner remarking last year that they both had "70 years" of experience in designing racing engines. Reflecting on Verstappen's quiet confidence post-shakedown, former F1 strategist-turned-pundit Collins believes Verstappen's body language spoke more than he did.  "There was a lot of noise in the paddock last year that this engine was really going to struggle," Collins explained on the Sky Sports F1 podcast. "It wasn't going to be as good as the others, and I guess the story was maybe different internally at Red Bull, but we are starting to see that confidence come out a little bit. "Max is sounding very relaxed, and I think you can tell by their posture, he's not just saying the words, he is looking very relaxed. "He does say that the car has room for improvement, that's what happens in the first test of any season, but he does look quietly confident. "He's got that little smile he sometimes carries when he is in these interviews, that he knows much more than we do."

2026-02-02T10:36:00+01:00 2026-02-02T13:10:25+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mercedes-f1-2026-car-reveal-how-to-watch-live Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Following the Barcelona shakedown from last week, Mercedes is hosting a season launch event as it prepares for the season ahead. The Brackley-based squad enjoyed a positive test in Spain last week, tallying the most laps of any team. The W17 challenger is being tipped by many to compete at the front of the field this year and battle for the title with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli behind the wheel. The Mercedes launch event starts at 12:25 CET where you will get a closer look at the car that has many experts talking. You can follow the stream below! skIoWJ0RbtU

2026-02-02T10:10:00+01:00 2026-02-02T18:46:24+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/williams-make-three-times-point-as-costly-f1-delay-explained Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Williams boss James Vowles has explained how the added complication of the new F1 cars was a factor in the delay of the FW48. After initially failing the FIA crash tests and then concerns with the weight of the new car, Williams skipped the Barcelona shakedown and is the only team yet to run its 2026 car on-track.  The crash tests have since been passed, with the FW48 set for a private shakedown before heading to Bahrain testing later this month.  Vowles had long earmarked 2026 as the year for Williams to focus on after taking over and completing a restructuring of the Grove-based squad. The car changes for 2026 are the single biggest year-to-year overhaul of the technical regulations in the history of grand prix racing, as Vowles explained how the added complication simply meant the team could not keep up.  "The car this year that we've built, just to put a number on it, and it doesn't matter if I use number of hours or number of components, it is about three times more complicated than anything we've put through our business before," Vowles told select media, including RacingNews365.  "So, in that perspective, it means the amount of load going through our system is about three times what it used to be, and we started falling behind a little bit and late on parts. "There are compromises you can make as a result of it, and in addition to that, we have absolutely pushed the boundaries of what we're doing in certain areas, and one of those is in certain corresponding tests that go with it.  "But those were only a blip in the grand scheme of things; they are one item out of quite a few, which were pushing us absolutely beyond the limit of what we can achieve in the space of the time we have available to us. "So it is more of an output, of not just pushing the boundaries of design, but the boundaries of just simply how many components can be pushed through a factory in a very short space of time."

2026-02-02T09:45:00+01:00 2026-02-02T18:46:44+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/key-mitch-evans-concern-remains-after-record-breaking-formula-e-victory Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mitch Evans remains concerned over the dry performance of his Jaguar after a stunning, record-breaking victory in a wet Formula E Miami E-Prix. The New Zealander fought through the field from ninth on the grid to become the first driver to secure 15 wins in the all-electric series. He came alive in slippery conditions following a short shower moments before the third round of the season, with the pace he had in the wet initially catching him by surprise. Evans secured his first win of the season with a sensational switchback move at the final corner on Lap 27 on Porsche’s Nico Müller, before breaking away. Addressing his race-winning overtake on Müller, Evans told RacingNews365 : "Look, I was wanting to maybe have a go at him on the inside of Turn 13, but he defended. So I thought my next option was to criss-cross him. "My traction was really, really good and, yeah, I just had a little bit of pace on him. I was able to build up the gap. Then it was all about trying to time the last attack — not go too early, not go too late — in case they put out the Safety Car. "I think we timed it well. I just had enough of a gap to cover him off. But I just had so much raw pace, and that’s what won me the race. Then it makes strategy and everything else pretty straightforward. "But I knew from the first lap — I was passing a few guys — and I’m like, ‘What’s going on? I’ve got loads of grip,’ and then that just continued through the race." Evans had failed to score a point across the opening two races prior to his win in Miami, promoting him to sixth in the drivers’ standings. While his pace in the wet was unmatched, qualifying took place in the dry, where Evans was unable to escape the group stage. Outright pace in the dry has been a real issue for Evans, who remains concerned about why exactly things are not clicking in normal conditions. "Winning in the wet, it just feels like sometimes you’re good, sometimes you’re not," said Evans. "I’ve been on both ends of the spectrum. Berlin was kind of like this; Shanghai and other races have been like I’ve been nowhere. "So it feels good to win, 100 per cent, but I know the raw pace in the dry — when it comes to Jeddah and other venues — we need to find what’s going on. "So that’s in the back of my mind. But whenever you have these days in the sport, you need to enjoy them, and to get my 15th win is special."

2026-02-02T09:15:00+01:00 2026-02-02T18:45:36+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/george-russell-backed-for-f1-title-after-hard-yards-mercedes-experience Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Former F1 driver Martin Brundle believes George Russell may be rewarded this year for the “hard yards” he has endured so far in his career. Russell joined the grid as a Mercedes junior driver in 2019, spending three uncompetitive years at the back of the field with Williams. In 2022, he received a promotion to Mercedes right as the Brackley-based squad suffered a slip down in the pecking order as a new regulation cycle came into play. The latest rules reset is in effect this year and following an impressive shakedown event from Barcelona, Mercedes is being tipped by many to lead the pack at the opening round of the year. Together with team-mate Kimi Antonelli, Brundle backed Russell to embark on a successful campaign for Mercedes. “He must sense there's a chance of a world championship here, George Russell,” Brundle told Sky F1. “Kimi Antonelli will be even closer to him this year. He's got that experience under his belt, he went on the missing list last year for nine races.  “But impressively, for such a young man, he kept his head together and brought that around and gave George a much closer run in the final stage of the season “They're two very well-matched drivers, but these cars will be quite flighty from time to time in certain conditions - safety car restarts, wet/dry, 'will it-won't it?' kind of moments.” With Russell entering his eighth F1 campaign, Brundle has backed the Briton to use his experience to come out on top in the head-to-head fight once again - but does not feel Antonelli is in danger of being ousted if he does not keep pace with his team-mate. “George's experience will show. If I had to guess, I'd put my money on George on season long. But those two will be mightily strong,” he said. “[Kimi] has got so much support in the team, so much support from Toto and everybody. “He's the heir apparent there. that's quite obvious. He doesn't have to keep looking over his shoulder all the time.  “He can just get Bono in his ear, which is brilliant for him. What a pairing. What a great lineup they've got.  “George looks very reassured, don't you think?  “He's spent a long time at Williams, He then moved to Mercedes just as they stopped winning a lot of everything, basically.  “He's put in the hard yards, and maybe this is his moment.”

2026-02-02T08:20:00+01:00 2026-02-02T18:45:15+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/ferrari-anticipate-very-intense-period-after-barcelona-shakedown-findings Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur is expecting his squad to endure a “very intense” period as it pores over the data collected from the Barcelona shakedown. The Italian outfit completed three days of running at the event earlier this week, taking to the track on Monday, Tuesday and Friday. It tallied up 435 laps across the shakedown, trailing only Mercedes for the most mileage at the event. Lewis Hamilton walked away with the fastest lap of the week - a morale booster for Ferrari, despite lap times being largely irrelevant at this stage. Outlining what's upcoming on Ferrari's agenda, Vasseur said: “Next week, we'll be back at home. “It will be very intense to have a look at what we collected the last couple of days, all the data, all the improvements that we have to do.” The Ferrari car will return to the track in Bahrain in just over one week's time for the first of two pre-season tests at the location. There, teams are likely to turn up the wick on their cars, which could create a clearer picture of the pecking order. As Ferrari prepares for the test, Vasseur asserted there are many items the Maranello-based squad will seek to get through. “We have tons of open topics for Bahrain,” he said. “In Bahrain, you have two times three [test] days. “As usual, it will be very intense because it is just before race one, then we'll fly to Melbourne. “It will  probably be much more representative in Bahrain than it was this week.”

2026-02-02T07:25:00+01:00 2026-02-02T18:44:57+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-want-gloves-off-fight-as-new-engine-rules-come-into-play Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull Powertrains technical director Ben Hodgkinson has asserted he would rather a “gloves-off” approach to developing the new power units. This year sees the introduction of fresh power units, which see dramatic changes compared to the predecessors - including a boost in electrical output that puts it level with the combustion engine. However, in a bid to ensure one single manufacturer does not run away from the rest of the competition, F1 has introduced the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) system. This will see a review conducted after the sixth, 12th and 18th races of the year - a scheme that Hodgkinson is not a fan of. “I would personally love just to get rid of homologation, have a gloves-off fight, that's what I'd really like. “But we are where we are, we have a cost cap and we have dyno hours limits, so I think there's enough limits in place without this.” The last time F1 introduced a major power unit change in 2014, Mercedes emerged as the pick of the field and dominated for the next several years. Despite the ADUO measures in place, Hodgkinson asserted it will not be easy for trailing manufacturers to catch up. “Does it sufficiently reward the people that get it right? I think so,” he said. “The bit that I don't think is fully understood amongst the rule makers is the gestation time of an idea in power units is much longer than it is in chassis. “So if I need to make a change, firstly, I've not just got two cars to update, I've got a whole fleet of engines in the pool, so I could have 12 engines that I need to update, and so that takes time. “But also, because we're homologated, you can't really take a flyer on something that isn't well proven because you could be signing up to a world of pain. “So we've got a minimum number of durability that we'd want to achieve on our new part and our new idea. “Our parts normally are very, very high-precision metal bits that just take time to manufacture, so we can have a 12-week manufacturing time on some bits.  “And then it will take a similar length of time to prove it all out, and then a similar length of time to get it all furnished in the race pool.” “If a team has an advantage on the power unit in race one, it's going to take some time before anyone else can catch up. “A way to peg them back is kind of what's necessary, which the ADUO does offer in some respects, but I think after six races it's assessed, so technically the seventh you can introduce the update. “I think that it's quite challenging to come up with an update in a couple of weeks – if I had 20 kilowatts to bolt on the engine right now, I'd do it.”

2026-02-02T06:30:00+01:00 2026-02-03T18:07:45+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/oscar-piastri-fires-early-2026-title-warning-after-late-mclaren-collapse Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Oscar Piastri has warned his F1 title rivals that he is now aware of his weaknesses after his late collapse in the 2025 championship fight. After the Dutch GP last August, Piastri held a 34-point lead over team-mate Lando Norris and a 104-point lead over Max Verstappen, but from the Azerbaijan GP onwards, his form collapsed. He crashed out of the Sprints in the United States and Brazil, and recorded three fifth places in a row just as Norris and Verstappen peaked to pass him in the standings, although Piastri did rally in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.  Piastri's mental toughness had been regarded as one of his strengths before the collapse, with the Australian now believing he has a better view of his weaknesses as he seeks to wrest the title from Norris in 2026. "I'm just trying to get a better feel for what the car is like, it is such a big departure from what we've had in the last few years and in my time in F1," Piastri explained. "There are a lot of things to understand, the new engines, but also the philosophy of the caris completely different with less downforce.  "It is about getting used to that and how different things feel and trying to get a good read on that and, as quickly as possible, find a good direction to make the car quicker and feel nicer. "I am excited. I've had a good first three years in F1, but this is my first regulation reset, so it is going to be interesting to see where we come out as a team.  "I feel like last year I really proved to myself the things that I'm capable of, and definitely still the things I need to improve and work on as well. But I feel like I really took a good step forward, and you know, those lessons I can take forward into whatever rules we get."

2026-02-01T22:00:00+01:00 2026-02-01T18:00:19+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/franco-colapinto-sponsor-disappears-as-lewis-hamilton-hands-ferrari-instruction---racingnews365-review Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Franco Colapinto's main sponsor disappears at Alpine Franco Colapinto's main sponsor has disappeared from Alpine's sponsorship portfolio. What is the reason, and what can we expect now? READ MORE: Franco Colapinto's main sponsor disappears at Alpine Lewis Hamilton issues Ferrari firm instruction after 'no illusion' F1 claim Lewis Hamilton set the fastest time in the Barcelona test, but feels Ferrari must be "concise" as it moves to Bahrain. READ MORE: Lewis Hamilton issues Ferrari firm instruction after 'no illusion' F1 claim Fernando Alonso stunned by immediate impact of 'teacher' Adrian Newey Fernando Alonso is enjoying seeing the pupils in the class of 2026 under teacher Adrian Newey. READ MORE: Fernando Alonso stunned by immediate impact of 'teacher' Adrian Newey Lando Norris hands F1 rivals 'too easy' warning after Barcelona shakedown World champion Lando Norris believes it is too premature to draw any conclusions after Barcelona. READ MORE: Lando Norris hands F1 rivals 'too easy' warning after Barcelona shakedown George Russell shares surprising 'good news' after eye-catching Mercedes test George Russell has identified a major positive for F1 drivers in 2026 after the rule changes. READ MORE: George Russell shares surprising 'good news' after eye-catching Mercedes test Cadillac drop Super Bowl livery teaser involving US president Cadillac's livery for 2026 is to be unveiled during the Super Bowl half-time show later this week. READ MORE: Cadillac drop Super Bowl livery teaser involving US president

2026-02-01T20:15:00+01:00 2026-02-02T08:06:49+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/indycar-set-for-historic-big-deal-moment-after-donald-trump-washington-order Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Will Power believes the upcoming IndyCar race in Washington, D.C will be a "huge deal" for the series, after Donald Trump's order.  On Friday, President Trump signed an executive order directing the federal government to begin the process of preparing for a full points IndyCar race around the streets of the US capital in August, dubbed the 'Freedom 250.' The race would be celebrating the 250th anniversary of the foundation of America after the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, although major stumbling blocks remain.  Just six-and-a-half months remain to design and build a track around the capital, get appropriate infrastructure in place to support the series, including staff, whilst there is also the problem of advertising not being allowed on the National Mall.  A waiver would be required from Congress to bypass a 2003 law from Senator Jeff Bingaman banning advertising on the National Mall.  Looking ahead to the race, two-time series champion, 2018 Indy 500 winner and now Andretti driver Will Power felt the news was "awesome." "I think it is awesome for us," Power exclusively told RacingNews365. "We're very good on street courses; it'll be another street course in the season, and it is going to be a big deal.  "Racing around the capital is a huge deal for IndyCar.  "As far as getting eyeballs on the series, it is great. I don't think it'll be bigger than the Indy 500, but I'm guessing it is just a one-off thing. "I was impressed how quickly it came together, and it was actually like: 'Boom, we're doing this' because I know how hard it is to put on a street race."

2026-02-01T19:20:00+01:00 2026-02-01T17:59:29+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/sergio-perez-ready-for-cadillac-discovery-as-f1-exploration-awaits Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Sergio Perez has stated Cadillac has begun to “explore” its car as it prepares to make its debut at the Australian Grand Prix next month. Cadillac was present in Barcelona earlier this week, where the American squad fielded its new car with Perez and Valtteri Bottas behind the wheel. Cadillac is expanding the grid to beyond 10 teams for the first time since 2016 this year, joining at the start of a new regulation cycle. It logged 164 laps at the shakedown - the second fewest, trailing only Aston Martin. Nevertheless, Perez asserted it was a positive week for Cadillac. “We had a productive time in Barcelona completing a good amount of running across the three days with valuable information gathered,” Perez said. “As a team, we’re starting to explore the car, set-ups and the directions we want to be taking.  “The point of this shakedown is to get more mileage to identify areas to improve that we can address before we go racing.” Cadillac will return to the track in Bahrain in just over one week for the second pre-season test of the year. Perez is expecting it to be a busy period for the team as it looks to put itself in the best shape possible for a successful F1 debut. “There is a lot of work ahead of us, especially being a new team, but it’s an exciting time.  “I’m really enjoying being back in a team, there’s a great spirit here to move forward.”

2026-02-01T18:30:00+01:00 2026-02-02T08:06:58+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/george-russell-delcared-f1-title-favourite-as-key-mercedes-advantage-highlighted Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com George Russell has been declared the championship favourite for the upcoming F1 season by former driver Karun Chandhok. Mercedes enjoyed a highly successful shakedown event in Barcelona earlier this week, tallying 502 laps across the event - the most of any team. As early as last year, rumblings of the strength of Mercedes' new power unit emerged as many picked the Brackley-based squad to commence the sport's new era on top, as they did in 2014 when the engines last went through a significant change. Chandhok highlighted Mercedes' status as a works team will serve it well at the start of a new era, leading the Indian to select Russell as his early pick for the title. “He [Russell] is my championship favourite,” Chandhok told Sky F1 . “What we're hearing from a lot of the drivers is the word 'systems'. “This year, having a team from a chassis and power unit side as an integrated operation - which really, it's Mercedes, Audi, Ferrari [and Red Bull] - there are now four. “Two of them have the excuse of being newbies, Audi and Red Bull. “For Ferrari and Mercedes, there are no real excuses, because they are the works teams.” Mercedes will also supply power units to McLaren, Williams and Alpine. McLaren has enjoyed significant success over the last two years despite being a customer team, winning back-to-back constructors' titles and the drivers' championship with Lando Norris last season. However, with such a major change coming to the engines this year, Chandhok stated the integrated Mercedes workforce across both sites will give the German manufacturer an advantage. “And although, in terms of hardware, by regulation, McLaren and the other customers have to get the same power units as the works Mercedes team, I just think having both sides talking to each other so much more in an integrated way has to be an advantage in the early stage of this power unit regulation,” he said. “For me, that puts George as the favourite for the season.”

2026-02-01T17:51:00+01:00 2026-02-02T08:06:54+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/cadillac-drop-super-bowl-livery-teaser-involving-us-president Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Cadillac has dropped a major teaser ahead of its livery reveal during Super Bowl this week, including a former US president.  During the half-time show of the Seattle Seahawks vs New England Patriots on Sunday, the livery of the as-yet-unnamed machine to be driven by Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez will be revealed.  Cadillac completed 146 laps during the Barcelona shakedown test earlier this week with its Ferrari power unit in a special one-off testing livery designed only for the running at the former Spanish GP venue.  To whet the appetite ahead of the unveiling, Cadillac has dropped a teaser on social media, including a snippet of President John F Kennedy's speech at Rice University in September 1962 in which he declared that "we choose to go to the moon. We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard," in defence of setting the goal of man landing on the moon in May of 1961. Super Bowl Sunday also coincides with the possible launch of NASA's Artemis II lunar mission in which four astronauts will be launched to flyby the Moon, in the first crewed mission to the Moon since Apollo 17 in December 1972.  Check it out below! 2017977349375988043 All eyes on Sunday, February 8. pic.twitter.com/4Fys9LLXXy — Cadillac Formula 1 Team (@Cadillac_F1) February 1, 2026

2026-02-01T17:30:00+01:00 2026-02-01T09:10:50+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/f1-fans-deliver-damning-williams-verdict-after-shakedown-no-show Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com A majority of F1 fans believe Williams is on the back foot after missing the shakedown event at Barcelona. The Grove-based squad is now the only team who is yet to turn a lap with its 2026 car. It faced difficulties in the build-up to the new season with the crash test, however team principal James Vowles confirmed earlier this week that it has since passed all FIA requirements. It opted to skip the Barcelona shakedown as work continued on the car. The team has asserted it will be present at the Bahrain pre-season test in just one week, where it will get its season up and running. But it may be forced to play catch-up as some rival teams already have several hundred laps under their belt. Williams' situation prompted RacingNews365 to ask you, the fans, if you thought Williams is now facing an uphill battle. Over 63 per cent of fans who voted declared that the team is now at a major disadvantage after clocking zero laps in Barcelona. Only 10 per cent of fans think missing the test will not impact Williams at the start of the year. See the full poll results below! Is Williams facing major F1 disadvantage after missing Barcelona test?

2026-02-01T16:35:00+01:00 2026-02-02T08:07:02+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/extreme-red-bull-clears-first-f1-hurdle-as-mercedes-and-ferrari-assert-control Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Analysing the performance of the Barcelona shakedown is almost impossible owing to the usual variables of fuel loads and engine modes used to achieve their best times.  If we look at the fastest four times recorded in Spain during the week, it is clear that the performance was very close, with 0.305s between Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc, with George Russell and Lando Norris sandwiched in between.  Fastest four times in Barcelona shakedown Whilst it is worth noting the presence of two Ferraris in the top four, it is not overly relevant in assessing the actual performance of the car, with other factors outside the isolated lap times influencing performance, such as temperatures, grip from the track, and the tyre compounds.  To get a slightly more accurate picture of the early pecking order, the laps completed by each team must be factored in, although the caveat of it not being indicative of pure performance should be noted. Number of laps completed by each team Testing conclusions The 502 and 435 laps completed by Mercedes and Ferrari, respectively, represent a solid benchmark, showing strong reliability with a test lacking in any major technical woes. It was certainly comforting for both teams to have completed their running so consistently and to show flashes of performance. Mercedes came away in an upbeat mood, with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli buoyed by their progress, whilst Ferrari was also content, especially when the comments of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc are compared, with unanimous praise for the SF-26, whilst 12 months ago in Bahrain, opinions between the drivers diverged massively.  Turning to the defending world champions McLaren, it seems clear that the MCL40 has very high potential, with Norris's time coming without any major effort, but otherwise, the running completed seemed to be in disguise.  Prior to the test, McLaren had sent its car to AVL in Austria for extensive dyno running, which could have provided leads that the track tests only had to confirm, even through the use of non-extreme power unit modes and fuel levels, to conceal their significance from rivals. Ergo, the MCL40 is a car which, from what emerged in Barcelona, was well born and, on paper, capable of fighting with Mercedes, with which it shares an engine. The initial feedback of the Red Bull is that it is a car which could be a valuable tool in the hands of Max Verstappen, with a design which has interesting points of conceptual extremism.  What was most striking about the RB22 was the reliability of the Red Bull Powertrains-Ford engine, which, although not pushed to the maximum, appeared to be less problematic than Audi's effort. Audi faces a steep learning curve to optimise its power unit performance alongside the usual vehicle and aerodynamic aspects, which, to date, does not seem to have been the main target of the team, instead focusing on the challenge of mastering the tricky new engine formula. Firmly in the midfield are Racing Bulls, Haas, and Alpine, three teams which completed a healthy number of laps, with no power unit reliability concerns from their respective RBPT, Ferrari, and Mercedes suppliers. Of the three, it is Haas who emerges just in front, ahead of Racing Bulls and Alpine, despite Pierre Gasly's respectable eighth-fastest time overall.  At the back are Audi and Cadillac, which focused mainly on establishing an understanding of the power unit modes and learning how to operate trackside. In short, Cadillac's week was largely an overall validation of the project. Although Aston Martin did also make it out on track late on Thursday, it is impossible to rank the Adrian Newey-designed machine, owing to the limited running in which the AMR26 only completed a single full day on Friday.

2026-02-01T16:00:00+01:00 2026-02-01T17:14:19+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/where-will-aston-martin-place-in-the-f1-pecking-order-this-year Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Aston Martin stole much of the focus on the final days of the Barcelona shakedown earlier this week following its late on-track debut. The AMR26 design has been spearheaded by renowned car designer Adrian Newey, who has also progressed to the role of team principal this year. Honda has returned to the sport as a power unit supplier and is issuing engines to the Silverstone-based squad. With Newey spending the entire 2025 season focusing on the design of the current car, Aston Martin's position in the pecking order this year is a major topic of conversation. Will it be able to offer Fernando Alonso another chance at winning a third F1 title, 20 years on from his last championship triumph? Or will the team be resigned to face another season competing in the midfield?  Have your say below!

2026-02-01T15:30:00+01:00 2026-02-02T20:23:39+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/franco-colapintos-main-sponsor-disappears-at-alpine Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mercado Libre, one of Franco Colapinto's main sponsors which has played a key role in the driver's F1 career in recent years, has disappeared from Alpine's sponsorship portfolio.   Although Alpine has extended the Argentine driver's contract until 2026, this year's A526 race car was unveiled without the e-commerce giant's logo.  The company, which remains in close alliance with Colapinto, is not listed among the team's partners on its website, and its disappearance is surprising and raises questions. When Alpine renewed Colapinto's contract, all signs pointed to a guaranteed continuation between the team and the company that strongly supports the driver.  The importance of the partnership was also illustrated by the fact that the team dressed its race car in special colours on three occasions last year: at the US Grand Prix, the Mexican Grand Prix, and the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Regarding Mercado Libre's disappearance, sources have informed RacingNews365 that the Argentine company is currently rethinking its partnerships and its entire F1 presence.  The company has changed its strategy and is working on diversifying its sponsorship activities to increase its visibility in Latin American regions outside Argentina.  In line with this, they are no longer focusing exclusively on one driver, and the first signs of this are already visible. On January 19, the company's Brazilian subsidiary, operating under the name Mercado Livre, announced that it would be joining Audi driver Gabriel Bortoleto as a sponsor.  The Mercado Libre logo also appeared on the helmet of Sergio Perez, who is returning with Cadillac, at the Barcelona test. The Mexican driver already featured the company on his non-final helmet design for the test period, and according to our information, the announcement of the agreement could come in a matter of days. Alpine partnership still possible RacingNews365 understands that a continuation between the company and Alpine is still possible.  Behind the scenes, negotiations are slowly but surely underway for Mercado Libre to remain a partner of the team, which will now be powered by Mercedes and, based on the Barcelona shakedown, is looking at a much better season than last year.  It is not yet known when an agreement will be reached, but it is clear that the issue is becoming increasingly pressing in Argentina. Since Colapinto made his debut in F1, it has become very clear just how passionately Argentinians support their local driver and the sport itself.  Fans are present in large numbers all over the world, and the Argentine soccer jersey has become an indispensable accessory at F1 grand prix races - so it is not surprising that the situation surrounding the driver's main sponsor and team is causing serious concern among Argentine fanatics.  The Latin American country's press and social media have been in turmoil over the issue for days: fans fear that the current situation could adversely affect their favourite driver, just when the team needs stability as it targets progress up the grid.

2026-02-01T14:45:00+01:00 2026-02-01T17:14:02+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/throwback-f1-world-shook-by-bombshell-driver-move Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Two years ago today, the F1 world witnessed one of the most dramatic developments in the sport's history. On February 1, 2024, Ferrari confirmed what had seemed unthinkable: Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion who had spent 12 years at Mercedes, would be joining the Scuderia on a multi-year contract. It began as nothing more than rumours at the start of the day, and at first, was largely brushed off as mere winter break speculation, as Hamilton had long been linked with a switch to the Italian squad. But as the day progressed, it became ever clearer that it was really happening. In the evening, Ferrari put a stop to all speculation. Hamilton had activated a release clause in his Mercedes deal, cutting short a contract set to run through 2025. After 103 race wins and six world titles with the Silver Arrows, the partnership that had dominated F1's hybrid era was ending. Despite marking the most dramatic driver move in F1 history, Ferrari's own statement was perhaps the most understated we've ever seen. It said: “Scuderia Ferrari is pleased to announce that Lewis Hamilton will be joining the team in 2025, on a multi-year contract.” Hamilton waited two days before releasing his own statement, which was far more lengthy. In it, he spoke of the “crazy few days which have been filled with a whole range of emotions” and voiced his excitement to drive a Ferrari car. The seven-time champion thanked the Mercedes set-up as he drew the curtain on that chapter of his career, insisting it was one of the hardest decisions he ever had to make. The announcement was described as a blockbuster moment, a marketing dream that would dominate headlines for months. Hamilton endured a challenging opening season with the squad as he failed to reach the podium at any event.  This year, he enters the season with renewed hope as the sport resets under a new regulation cycle.

2026-02-01T13:50:00+01:00 2026-02-01T17:13:53+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/martin-brundle-highlights-tall-order-for-aston-martin-f1-team Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Former F1 driver Martin Brundle has suggested it is a “tall order” for Adrian Newey to get his colleagues in tune with his vision so early on at Aston Martin. Newey joined the Silverstone-based squad early last year as the head of its technical department and placed his focus on the 2026 car built under a fresh set of regulations. The Briton has transitioned to team principal for the season ahead, replacing Andy Cowell. Aston Martin's AMR26 challenger broke cover at the Barcelona shakedown last week as the team enters a new partnership with engine supplier Honda. But while high expectations surround the team with Newey leading the way, Brundle has stated there are question marks floating around the new car. When asked if he sees Aston Martin challenging for podiums and wins this year, Brundle told Sky F1: “I hope so - for everybody’s sake, and not least Fernando Alonso. “Adrian, his cars tend to be quite homogenous in their beautiful sort of sweeping airflow to them. You often see that with all of it, and there didn’t appear to be as many bits hanging off his cars as you do see some others. “It’s really hard undercut on the sidepod, and we’ve seen different interpretations of sidepods, front wings across the board, unsurprisingly, with such different, such new regulations. “We’ve got to assume Adrian’s come up with some good ideas.  “But does he know enough about the Aston Martin wind tunnel? Will he get correlation? Has he got the right people around him to interpret his brilliance? “That’s a tall order, straight out of the box, actually. “Adrian was saying to me that Honda, they’re having to play catch-up, because they were leaving and then they came back in. “So there are some question marks there, and we’ll have to wait and see “But you just know that Adrian will have a vision of how to maximise these regulations, and let’s hope he’s done it. Let’s hope that car just flies.” Brundle downplays concern over late Barcelona arrival Aston Martin's on-track debut at the Barcelona shakedown came on day four as the car was late arriving at the venue. It completed just over 50 laps throughout the two days it was present at the track. Brundle downplayed concerns over the late arrival of the car, stating it was a trademark Newey approach to only sign things off on his own schedule.  “He’s also legendary for not wanting to sign things off,” he said. “So when the car was late, it didn’t surprise me at all, to be honest. “The long lead times, chassis, gearboxes, radiators, and all that sort of thing - Adrian will push that, and he always has done, to the absolute limit, because he wants the maximum amount of time of development on those pieces and understanding. “He doesn’t have that control function of a Christian Horner or a Patrick Head or whatever these days. He’s in charge of all of that. “If it absolutely takes off, then as ever, you can say he got it absolutely right. He’s waited until the last moment before having to commit. “But we’ll see. We don’t know. I’m going to assume that that car will be pretty handy through the year.”

2026-02-01T12:55:00+01:00 2026-02-01T13:25:07+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test---lap-count-per-manufacturer Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mercedes comfortably logged the most laps of any Formula 1 engine manufacturer across the five-day Barcelona test, while Ferrari largely flew under the radar. It was a smooth week of running for all Mercedes-powered teams, resulting in 1,134 laps of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya completed using Silver Arrows engines. No other manufacturer surpassed the four-figure mark in Barcelona, with Ferrari the closest, finishing just 14 laps shy of 1,000. While Mercedes recorded the highest lap total of any F1 engine manufacturer, it was Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton who set the quickest lap, suggesting the Scuderia may have a solid base package. Despite a crash for Isack Hadjar on Tuesday afternoon, Red Bull Powertrains (RBPT) recorded the third-most laps, with Red Bull and Racing Bulls completing a combined 622 laps. This meant RBPT completed the most laps among the new manufacturers, almost 400 more than Audi. The manufacturer that gathered the least data by a considerable margin was Honda, which ran for just over a day. Aston Martin managed only 65 laps in total, with Lance Stroll completing just four of them. Check out the total laps completed by each manufacturer below! Total laps per manufacturer

2026-02-01T12:00:00+01:00 2026-02-01T17:14:30+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lando-norris-hands-f1-rivals-too-easy-warning-after-barcelona-shakedown Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lando Norris has cautioned the F1 field that it is "so easy" to get drawn into "comparisons" after the first pre-season test. Norris gave the McLaren MCL40 its track debut on Wednesday in Barcelona, before dovetailing duties with team-mate Oscar Piastri, with the two completing a total of 287 laps.  Despite a problem with the fuel system on Thursday costing track time, from the early indications, McLaren will once again be among the leading contenders along with Mercedes, Red Bull, and Ferrari as it seeks a third straight constructors' crown whilst Norris looks to become the first McLaren driver to defend the title since Mika Hakkinen in 1999. But the Briton felt making comparisons after the shakedowns was too premature. "I think it is so easy to get caught up in comparisons," the world champion reflected. "We're all competitive, so you always want to see yourself doing well and feeling like you can be quick, but I think we understood a lot, both in low fuel and higher fuel, and the tyres. "What we came here to do is understand the car, especially from a reliability point of view and make sure that all the sensors were working as they should be, the gearbox or whatever, just doing as we expect. "Because reliability is one of the most important things, over the next few days and weeks, the team will look into stuff and try to improve and make it better.  "From my side, just to get back comfy with the car, there are some little bits I need to change here and there, but otherwise, it still feels like a race car, still feels fast and enjoyable."

2026-02-01T11:05:00+01:00 2026-02-02T08:06:42+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/fernando-alonso-stunned-by-immediate-impact-of-teacher-adrian-newey Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Fernando Alonso has revealed how he believes new Aston Martin chief Adrian Newey is "always teaching us something" after the AMR26 broke cover. Newey's first Aston Martin-designed machine was unveiled in Barcelona on Thursday, with the extreme concept immediately catching eyes, with Alonso driving a Newey car for the first time on Friday.  The two-time world champion has never previously worked with Newey, who has designed championship-winning cars for Williams, McLaren, and Red Bull, and is regarded as the greatest F1 designer of all time. Newey has taken on the team principal role for the first time in his career in 2026 as he juggles with his managing technical partner duties, as Alonso detailed how 'Teacher Newey' was already impacting the class of 2026. "Everyone is super motivated when we see him in the garage, taking care of all the details," Alonso explained. "I see all the mechanics, the faces of everyone looking at him, trying to spot something that maybe he can comment on the car or wants to improve.  "I think he's always teaching us something. "It was very special with Lance and me in the car, it was special and the first car made by Adrian, together with Honda and Aramco.  "The last few weeks have been very, very intense in the factory, trying to have the car ready, and we made it to Barcelona for the last two days.  "It's been a tremendous effort from everyone."

2026-02-01T10:10:00+01:00 2026-02-01T13:08:37+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/george-russell-shares-surprising-good-news-after-eye-catching-mercedes-test Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com George Russell has joked that the new generation of F1 car will "save a few years on the back" after the eradication of porpoising. Throughout the ground-effects era, cars were prone to the aerodynamic phenomenon of bouncing as the underside of the floor stalled before quickly re-attaching, with the oscillation cycle known as porpoising. Multiple drivers initially reported major concerns in 2022, with Lewis Hamilton particularly suffering at the 2022 Azerbaijan GP, with his participation in the next race in Canada briefly in doubt.  The FIA stepped in during the season to make rule changes to reduce porpoising, but by the end of the ground effects era, it had returned, albeit to a lesser extent. For the 2026 generation of car, the conditions for porpoising have been removed with the floor of the car no longer required to as close as possible to the track surface to create downforce, with the 'rake' returning. This is the difference in ride height between the front and rear of the car, with the rear higher, under which Mercedes dominated in the old rules cycle between 2017 and 2021.  Reflecting on the first week of running with the 2026 breed of car, Russell, who completed a field-leading 265 laps of Mercedes' own chart-topping 502, felt the immediate improvement for the drivers.  "It's been a positive test; we had lots of mileage on the car, which was the main focus of the test," Russell reflected. "The car is feeling nice to drive, there are no major issues, and no porpoising, which is pretty good news for all of us. "It will save a few years on the back, so all in all, it was a decent few days. "The car has been working well, but it is not about how well it works; it is about how quickly it goes around the track, and we don't really have an indication of that at the moment. "But we're in a reasonably good place, but I'm sure things are going to change a lot between now and the next Bahrain test, and then I am sure people will be bringing upgrades to the car, so it is still very much early days."

2026-02-01T09:45:00+01:00 2026-01-31T23:14:45+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/felipe-drugovich-issues-apology-after-antonio-felix-da-costa-formula-e-wipeout Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Antonio Félix da Costa has revealed that Felipe Drugovich issued an immediate apology after wiping him out of a wet Formula E Miami E-Prix. Both drivers had been in contention for a podium until the end of lap 26, after Drugovich out-braked himself and launched into the back of da Costa. The incident spun da Costa, who at least managed to quickly rejoin the race, albeit with damage. Drugovich required a new front wing, triggering an immediate pit stop. Drugovich was entirely at fault and received a 10-second time penalty, as well as a single penalty point, putting him on four overall. In the latest disappointing setback to da Costa’s start of life with Jaguar, he did at least salvage some points by finishing eighth. Drugovich was seen apologising in the post-race media pen, with da Costa confirming that an apology was immediately issued by the Andretti driver. Asked if he saw the incident coming, da Costa told RacingNews365 : "I actually saw him coming. It was all so fast; he was so close up there. "It’s impossible, either for him or for me, to avoid it. The only way to avoid it is for him to brake a little bit earlier, you know. "So, you know, we’re racing hard and very close to each other, and this is part of racing. He apologised right away. So, I mean, that’s it. We close the chapter and we go on to the next one." Drugovich's view of the accident For Drugovich, the rookie had been enjoying his strongest Formula E weekend to date, with second place secured in what had been a dry qualifying session before rain fell. The 2022 Formula 2 champion looked to be in with every chance of a first podium in the all-electric series before being caught out by da Costa’s braking point at Turn 13. According to the Brazilian, he braked at the same point he had done all race and was left with no option but to go straight into the back of da Costa. Discussing what happened in the incident, Drugovich told RacingNews365 : "Honestly, not much. I out-braked Antonio. Honestly, it was kind of my normal braking point.  "I wouldn't have gone straight, but, yeah, I just saw the car just closing, closing, closing. I thought he was going to go to the inside, obviously, because he was braking a bit earlier than me.  "And so I tried to poke my nose on the inside, catch a bit and then go to the outside, but he just stayed on the outside. And then last moment, I just locked up. I tried to avoid him. So, yeah, it's frustrating.  "It's not a massive thing or a massive mistake, but just turns out a massive consequence."

2026-02-01T09:15:00+01:00 2026-02-01T13:09:07+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/ex-mclaren-driver-beats-audi-f1-junior-to-championship-title Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Former McLaren F1 junior driver Ugo Ugochukwu has claimed title victory at the Formula Regional Oceania Championship. The American driver beat newly announced Audi junior Freddie Slater to the title at the final round at Highlands Motorsport Park. The four-round championship got underway in early January and also saw the single-seater debut of WRC champion Kalle Rovapera, who is preparing for a campaign in Super Formula this year. Ugochukwu won four races across the campaign and claimed an additional two podiums en route to the title. The 21-year-old was long part of the McLaren junior programme having signed a long-term deal several years ago, but departed the scheme last November. Nevertheless, his 2026 racing season got off to the best possible start as he claimed the championship title, joining fellow title-winners such as Lando Norris, Lance Stroll, Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad. “It's an amazing feeling, to cross the line,” he said. “The race felt way longer than usual, but just happy to get it done, get it over with. “It's been a really good campaign, a really good season. I can't thank the whole team enough. “They did a mega job all year, I'm happier for them than me. Just a big thanks to them for putting their trust in me this season.” Slater ended the campaign 15 points down on Ugochukwu, just one week after the Briton was announced as Audi's first junior F1 driver. Ugochukwu and Slater will both race in the Formula 3 championship this year for Campos and Trident, respectively.

2026-02-01T08:20:00+01:00 2026-02-01T09:56:19+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-warned-2026-failure-could-trigger-bombshell-max-verstappen-exit Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert has warned Red Bull that not being the quickest team in the upcoming 2026 season could trigger Max Verstappen’s departure. The past two seasons have seen Verstappen linked with an exit from Red Bull, with talks held with Mercedes during the first half of 2025. Ultimately, he expressed his loyalty to the Austrian outfit for this year, as F1 enters a new power unit regulation cycle. For Red Bull, this also marks the start of life as its own powertrain supplier, representing the biggest challenge in the history of the Milton Keynes-based team. While its engine looked promising during the Barcelona shakedown test, it remains to be seen how competitive it will be. Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies has already acknowledged that Verstappen is taking a risk by sticking with the team, given the scale of the task it faces. As highlighted by Herbert, the four-time world champion is not in F1 to “finish second”; the Dutchman wants to be on top and secure more world titles. For that to happen, he needs one of the best — if not the best — cars on the grid, putting pressure on Red Bull to deliver and retain the 28-year-old beyond 2026. Discussing what Red Bull must do this year to keep Verstappen, Herbert told RacingNews365 at Formula E's Miami E-Prix: "Go faster than all the others, very clearly, because he knows how the team works.  "But fundamentally, it’s all going to come down to the car you start the season with — whether it’s the quickest out of the box, one of the quickest, or very, very close. It might even alternate from track to track. "That’s where, as a racing driver, you’re always thinking: what’s going to benefit me over the next couple of years to win my next world championship? The only way they’re going to achieve that is by giving him a car he can challenge with. But challenging is one thing — you’ve got to beat the likes of, say, Mercedes, for example. "If they don’t, then he’s going to look elsewhere, because that’s what racing drivers do. He’s not there to finish second. His core mentality is to win, and when he doesn’t win, he gets very annoyed.  "But Lewis [Hamilton] is the same. Charles [Leclerc] is the same. George [Russell] is the same. All the drivers here in Formula E are exactly the same. They’re competitive animals, like all sportspeople are. Ultimately, it comes down to what they supply."

2026-02-01T07:25:00+01:00 2026-02-03T08:19:23+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lewis-hamilton-issues-ferrari-firm-instruction-after-no-illusion-f1-claim Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lewis Hamilton has told Ferrari it must ensure it is "clear and concise" with its decisions after a strong first pre-season test in Barcelona. Hamilton topped the timesheets in the behind-closed-doors shakedown test in Spain across the last week, posting a 1:16.348 late on Day 5 to pip former team-mate George Russell to the fastest time.  Ferrari ran without any major reliability concerns, with the SF-26 in the leading gaggle of teams along with Mercedes, Red Bull, and McLaren, although at this early stage, the true pecking order is unknown.  Hamilton is looking to bounce back from his worst-ever F1 season in 2025, in which he failed to score a single grand prix podium for the first time, as he was upbeat as he prepares to start his 20th campaign, in a year he will reach 400 grands prix, currently scheduled to be round 20 in Mexico City.  "Everyone is positive and incredibly enthusiastic," Hamilton explained. "I mean, we're under no illusions. We know we've got work to do, Mercedes has done great running, and Red Bull and Haas did as well.  "So I don't know really where we are, but I think it is a solid first week, and we can really build from here, so there may be some big leaps that we need to take. "Development is going to be key, and it is just making sure that we leave no stone left unturned, and that we are really clear and concise with our communication and the decisions we take. "It is going to take all of us to be at our best, and I'm just seeing everyone coming with a new energy this year, which is great."

2026-02-01T06:30:00+01:00 2026-02-01T13:08:53+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/oscar-piastri-highlights-different-priorities-as-mclaren-faces-unique-scenario Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Oscar Piastri has explained how, despite the "different priorities", McLaren's engine supplier Mercedes is "trying to make us all as quick as possible." For 2026, McLaren will be using a supply of customer Mercedes High Performance Powertrains (HPP) engines, along with Alpine and Williams, as well as the works Mercedes team. Across the Barcelona shakedown, Alpine, McLaren, and Mercedes combined for 1,134 laps as Williams sat it out, with McLaren and Mercedes both expecting to be in title contention. That places McLaren in a unique scenario as it could be fighting its engine supplier for the world championship, with other possible contenders, Red Bull, Ferrari, and Aston Martin, all either having exclusive status or not expected to be challenged by a customer squad. However, Piastri felt that at this stage in the development of the power units, simply gaining mileage was the main priority, even as different teams had "different priorities." "There is still definitely a lot to learn, especially on the power unit side of things," Piastri said. "Just how to get the most out of it and how you go the fastest, but I think we understood some of the problems and limitations, and some of the things which are just different to last year, both on the power unit and in the car. "It's got a lot less downforce than we had last year, so [it is about] getting used to that, and it has been the biggest thing we've started to get ourselves into. "The main thing for Mercedes HPP is trying to understand the power unit as well, and we're trying to help them.  "Any information that they can get from Lando and I, is very helpful, but even just running the power unit is very helpful for them. "So there are a lot of things going on at once, but everyone has got slightly different priorities, but they're trying to make us all as quick as possible."

2026-01-31T22:00:00+01:00 2026-02-01T17:13:03+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/aston-martin-on-another-level-as-lewis-hamilton-drops-major-ferrari-hint-racingnews365-review Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The radical-looking 2026 Aston Martin F1 car has been described as "on another level" with "incredible attention to detail" as the Adrian Newey design turned testing heads. The Honda-powered machine did not head out on track in Spain until late on Thursday, with Lance Stroll completing a handful of slow laps, before veteran Fernando Alonso drove a Newey-designed car for the first time on Friday, completing 49 laps.  READ MORE: Radical Aston Martin 'on another level' as striking Adrian Newey influence clear Lewis Hamilton drops major first hint over 2026 Ferrari F1 car Lewis Hamilton has delivered his verdict on the new generation of F1 cars after topping the Barcelona pre-season shakedown, hinting it could be a return to some of his strengths. Late on the final day of running, Hamilton posted a 1:16.348 to set the quickest time of the week as he looks to bounce back from the horror 2025 season with Ferrari. READ MORE: Lewis Hamilton drops major first hint over 2026 Ferrari F1 car What we learned from F1's Barcelona pre-season shakedown test The first pre-season 'shakedown' test is firmly in the 2026 books as F1 teams prepare to crunch their data and take what learnings they can heading to Bahrain in the middle of February. With the talking finally over and the cars and drivers now speaking for themselves, RacingNews365 takes a look at some of the key things we learned in Barcelona about how the 2026 season could shape up. READ MORE: What we learned from F1's Barcelona pre-season shakedown test Audi facing 'longest ever list' as true scale of F1 challenge unmasked Audi chief Mattia Binotto says he has "never seen such a long list" of issues it must fix after the Barcelona pre-season shakedown. In its first pre-season test in F1, Audi completed 240 laps across the permitted three days of running, but Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto were hampered by niggling problems with the R26 machine, with Bortoleto stopping on track on one occasion. READ MORE: Audi facing 'longest ever list' as true scale of F1 challenge unmasked Max Verstappen pinpoints 'key' to unlocking huge Red Bull 2026 unknown Max Verstappen believes the century of laps he racked up during the final day of F1's Barcelona shakedown will be "key" to helping Red Bull grow its understanding of its new engine. On Friday in Barcelona, Verstappen tallied 118 laps of the track, posting a 1:17.586 as his best effort as Red Bull continues to learn about its new in-house Red Bull Powertrains-Ford engine. READ MORE: Max Verstappen pinpoints 'key' to unlocking huge Red Bull 2026 unknown Racing Bulls deliver early verdict on new Red Bull engine Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane has praised the new Red Bull power unit, admitting the team is “pleasantly surprised” by its performance. Red Bull has fielded its own power unit this year for the first time, built in collaboration with Ford. READ MORE: Racing Bulls deliver early verdict on new Red Bull engine

2026-01-31T21:23:00+01:00 2026-01-31T21:23:15+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-formula-e-championship-standings-after-miami-e-prix Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Nick Cassidy remains the leader of the Formula E drivers' title, despite failing to score a point in the Miami E-Prix.  Cassidy's former team-mate Mitch Evans secured the win for Jaguar, moving him into sixth in the standings.  Nico Müller and Pascal Wehrlein both finished on the podium, putting the factory Porsche outfit 27 points clear of Citroën in the teams' championship. Wehrlein finishing in third has moved the German up to second in the standings, just two points behind Cassidy. Following the third round, the top six are split by only seven points. Check out the full standings below! 2026 Formula E drivers' championship standings Formula E teams' championship standings

2026-01-31T21:06:00+01:00 2026-01-31T21:06:03+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mitch-evans-switchback-of-dreams-secures-record-breaking-wet-miami-formula-e-victory Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mitch Evans performed a switchback of dreams to secure a record-breaking 15th Formula E victory in a wet Miami E-Prix.  The Jaguar driver fought through the spray from ninth on the grid to move to the top of the list of most wins in Formula E history, with a stunning move on Nico Müller being the decisive moment. Müller finished in second after starting on pole, finishing directly ahead of factory Porsche team-mate Pascal Wehrlein.  Envision's Joel Eriksson performed well in slippery conditions to secure fourth, with Nyck de Vries completing the top five. Both Nick Cassidy and Oliver Rowland failed to score a point. How the race unfolded As feared, rain fell ahead of the race marking the first wet running of the entire event. Due to the lack of understanding of the circuit in the wet, the first five laps were completed behind the safety car.  A standing start did then take place with Nico Müller on pole, with Felipe Drugovich alongside on the front row. Gaps often form in rapid fashion in wet weather in Formula E, and Miami was no exception.  A group of seven broke away from the rest, featuring Antonio Felix da Costa, Müller, Mitch Evans, Drugovich, Nyck de Vries, Pascal Wehrlein and Joel Eriksson. This was the order by the end of Lap 24. Seven became five at the end of Lap 26, as Drugovich got his braking all wrong at the final corner, ploughing into the back of da Costa. Drugovich immediately entered the pit lane for repairs, while da Costa rejoined but a couple of seconds off the top five. The action continued a lap later as Evans produced a remarkable switchback on Müller to take the lead of the race, before quickly building an advantage. Evans led from Müller with 10 laps remaining, with de Vries, Wehrlein and Eriksson all jostling for third. The top five all had their final Attack Mode remaining at that moment in time. Wehrlein blinked first and took his final Attack Mode on Lap 33, allowing him to pass de Vries with ease for third. Müller responded and took his a lap later, as did Evans the following lap.  The trio quickly escaped and built a large buffer over de Vries, who bizarrely fell well adrift in fourth, ahead of Eriksson in fifth. De Vries tumbled a further place behind Eriksson, but held on to finish in fifth, behind the Envision in fourth.  At the front, it remained as it was, with Evans claiming a famous win ahead of Müller and Wehrlein, marking a significant double podium for Porsche. Elsewhere, Nick Cassidy, Oliver Rowland and Jake Dennis all ran in the bottom half of the field, with no chance of points.

2026-01-31T20:57:00+01:00 2026-01-31T20:57:03+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-formula-e-miami-e-prix-results Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mitch Evans secured a record-breaking 15th Formula E victory in a wet Miami E-Prix, making him the record-holder for most wins in the championship.  The New Zealander mastered slippery conditions to fight through from ninth on the grid to claim the win, ahead of the Porsche pair of Nico Müller and Pascal Wehrlein.  Enviison's Joel Eriksson secured fourth, with Nyck de Vries in fifth in what was an eventful 41-lap race at the Miami International Autodrome.  The likes of Nick Cassidy and Oliver Rowland both failed to score a point, marking a miserable weekend for the title protagonists. Check out the full results below! 2026 Formula E Miami E-Prix - results

2026-01-31T20:30:00+01:00 2026-01-31T21:11:25+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/liam-lawson-curious-to-discover-racing-bulls-unknown-after-first-f1-test Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Liam Lawson is "curious" to see how his Racing Bulls car performs once F1 testing moves to Bahrain after the Barcelona shakedown. Lawson posted a total of 152 laps in his day-and-a-half in the new RBPT-powered Racing Bulls machine in Spain to go with the private filming day and shakedown running the team completed at Imola. The Imola running was completed in wet conditions, whilst Barcelona was cold, with testing moving to Bahrain in the middle of February, with the Sakhir track vastly different in terms of characteristics from Barcelona. Sakhir is renowned as an aggressive track on tyres due to the heavy traction zones and abrasive track surface, with Lawson keen to discover how the field stacks up once testing gets underway in the Middle East on February 11th.  "There's a lot to learn for all of us as the 2026 car is very different to drive, so I just tried to adapt as much as I could," Lawson explained. "The car has less downforce compared to the past, so it moves around quite a bit; there’s a lot of power when the battery is fully deployed, but the way in which you have to manage it is something completely new.  "We’ve been trying several things on the car, and it’s been great to keep building mileage on the new power unit. We had a pretty strong test in terms of reliability, but in terms of expectations, it’s very hard to say at this point, as we don’t know where everyone else is.  "I think that will stay quite unknown for a while, but we’re focused on our own job and want to keep improving in order to be in the best shape possible for the first race in Melbourne.  "Overall, we ended the test in a much better place than where we started on Monday. The next test in Bahrain is in less than two weeks, so we’ll keep collecting data, but it's a completely different track from [Barcelona], so I'll be curious to see how the car performs in those conditions.”

2026-01-31T19:05:00+01:00 2026-01-31T21:11:57+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/cadillac-fighting-issues-in-barcelona-as-f1-debut-ticks-closer Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Sergio Perez has highlighted Cadillac was “fighting issues” throughout the day on Thursday when he was behind the wheel. Cadillac's F1 car made its on-track debut on Monday with both Perez and team-mate Valtteri Bottas taking it out onto the circuit. However, the team did not make another appearance until Thursday when Perez handled driving duties, clocking up 66 laps across the day of running. Perez highlighted the team is improving every time it takes to the tarck, but conceded there are still problems it is trying to iron out. “It was a much better day,” he said. “Obviously, we got a lot of running, a lot of information. “We're still fighting a few issues out there, which is great - it was all about it today.  “We are improving on pretty much every run. “[There are] issues all around with the power unit, with the car, with a few electronics issues.  “But this is great that things are happening here. We have a lot of of work ahead of us, being a new team.” Cadillac is facing a challenging campaign ahead as it arrives as the sport's newest team, having established itself from scratch. It employed the services of Perez and Bottas - two of F1's most experienced drivers - for its maiden season. Perez, who last raced in 2024, said of his return: “Coming back, it felt a little bit strange, seeing some people, some drivers, again.  “It felt like it's been a long time since I last saw them. I'm happy to be back.”

2026-01-31T18:43:00+01:00 2026-01-31T21:12:28+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/christian-horner-speaks-for-first-time-after-dramatic-red-bull-exit-i-have-unfinished-business Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Christian Horner has spoken to media for the first time since being ousted as Red Bull team principal, declaring that he has "unfinished business in Formula 1". Horner had been Red Bull boss from its very first season back in 2005 but was axed after last season's British Grand Prix in July.  It marked the end of a major era in the Milton Keynes-based outfit's history and represented a shock exit from the F1 paddock for Horner.  Since his exit from Red Bull, the Briton has been heavily linked with a move to Alpine, with a consortium led by Horner having discussed purchasing Otro Capital's 24% stake. He feels there is more for him still in the pinnacle of motorsport but insists he would only return for the right project. "I feel like I have unfinished business in Formula One," Horner said at the European Motor Show in Dublin, as quoted by The Guardian . "It didn’t finish the way that I would have liked it to finish. “But I am not going to come back for just anything. I am only going to come back for something that can win. I don’t want to go back in the paddock unless I have something to do. I miss the sport, I miss the people, I miss the team that I built.  "I had 21 incredible years in Formula One. I had a great run, won a lot of races, championships and worked with some amazing drivers, engineers and partners. “I don’t need to go back. I could stop my career now. So I would only go back for the right opportunity to work with great people, and to work in an environment where people want to win, and they shared that desire.  "I would want to be a partner, rather than just a hired hand, but we will see how it plays out. I am not in a rush. I don’t need to do anything." Horner 'flattered' Despite being asked over six months ago, Horner speaking at the European Motor Show marked his first interview, much to his surprise.  The 52-year-old has found himself hungry to return to F1 and has found it "flattering" being rumoured with so many positions. "What has been fascinating is that I stepped out of Red Bull on July 8, and this is the first time I have actually spoken to anyone. [In the media] I have been going to every single Formula One team, which has ranged from the back of the grid, to the middle of the grid, and to the front of the grid. And there just seems to be an appetite as to: ‘What am I going to do? Where am I going to go?’ "The reality is that until the spring I can’t do anything anyway. It is very flattering to keep being associated with all of these different teams."

2026-01-31T18:10:00+01:00 2026-01-31T21:11:45+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/oliver-bearman-relishing-never-before-f1-challenge-after-hell-breakthrough Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Oliver Bearman has described his excitement at being able to develop an F1 car from scratch for the first time after making a "hell" breakthrough in Barcelona. The Haas driver logged 106 laps on the final day of the test, to go with the 85 from team-mate Esteban Ocon as the team overcame some reliability woes on Wednesday to end the first test strongly. For Bearman, 2026 marks the first time in his career he has undergone a regulation change in the formula he is driving, having risen through the spec junior categories before making his full-time debut in the final year of the ground effect design. Recounting his week, the Ferrari-backed Briton described his excitement at being able to tackle the rule changes after making a sizeable breakthrough in his understanding during the shakedown. "We had the issues on Wednesday at the end, they weren't big problems, they were all ones we could understand, but they just took a while to fix," Bearman explained. "Luckily, we were able to get back in the car [on Friday], and have a very clean programme, and I learned a hell of a lot about the car. "We have so many quality laps now that we have the data, which, compared to Wednesday, was very interrupted and not very high on quality. "I've got some vast impressions on what I like about the car, what I dislike about the car in terms of its balance. "It's the biggest change in the history of F1, so it's nice to be involved in that, and to be at the front of that alongside Esteban, leading the way in terms of how we're going to develop the car, and how we're going to change things. "I've never had that opportunity before. I've gone from spec series in F4, F3, and then F2, and last year, Formula 1 was essentially a carryover of the previous years. There was no change in regulations. "But this big change is fantastic, and I really feel like, as drivers, we can get stuck in and make a difference."

2026-01-31T17:15:00+01:00 2026-01-31T21:11:34+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/seagull-beaks-and-diffuser-holes-the-most-striking-2026-f1-testing-innovations Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The first pre-season test, which finished on Friday, provided the first opportunity to see the actual cars on track, in their initial configurations. It was expected that from the FIA's renders, there would be a wide variety of solutions among the teams, despite the fact that on a macroscopic level, there was almost total convergence on certain design ideas, such as the push rod layout of the front and rear suspensions. In terms of specific teams, some proved more interesting than others, with a large slot in the side-wall of the Mercedes W17 diffuser raising eyebrows, especially among the usual conspiracy theorists on social media regarding its possible illegality. As we previously wrote, this design is a fully legal trick Mercedes has followed, with the W17 a very mature car, and in fact, almost a logical evolution of the final ground effects car, but on a smaller scale.  Confirmation of the legality of the Mercedes diffuser slot came from the Red Bull RB22, which sported a similar design, with the sidepods of the car being very interesting. Specifically, the positioning of the side intrusion cones at the upper edge of the sidepods is noteworthy, with the lateral end extending beyond the outer profile of the sidepod, further emphasising the reduced section of this area of the car. Turning to the Ferrari SF-26, it was interesting to see the adoption of a strongling inclined triangle at the front, with the rear arm attachment point very low and set back, drawing inspiration from the title-winning 2025 McLaren. Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc's new car does not appear to be a visually radical design, but the sophistication of its internal fluid dynamics is clearly evident from the reappearance of the bypass duct at the side of the cockpit in the cross-section of the engine air intake. As for McLaren, the MCL40 appears vastly different from its championship-winning predecessor with clear visible changes in the suspension layout, but the real innovations in terms of packaging and internal mechanics are disguised. The Aston Martin AMR26, on first glance on Thursday has the specific characteristics of every car designed by Adrian Newey, meaning it is not an ordinary projct. The positioning of the upper rear suspension triangle have been tailored to suit the aerodynamic requirements at this crucial area of the car. The wide nose and low profile resemble a sea-gull beak, but these are only the most visible features of a project which underwent a non-linear gestation period around the time of mating the Honda power unit to the chassis. This may prove to be an advantage in the medium term, but it forced the Silverstone team to radically rethink the project over the summer of 2025.

2026-01-31T16:54:00+01:00 2026-01-31T16:54:33+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/nico-muller-storms-to-first-formula-e-pole-as-title-favourites-suffer-miami-slip Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Nico Müller defeated Andretti's Felipe Drugovich to secure his first Formula E pole position, ahead of the Miami E-Prix.  It was a bizarre qualifying session at the Miami International Autodrome which saw several title favourites slip up, creating a surprising grid for the third round of the season. Both Müller and Drugovich were chasing a first pole in the championship in the final, with the former setting a 55.455 to secure pole and three points for himself and Porsche. Qualifying featured several huge shocks as Nick Cassidy was the only driver in the top four of the standings to make the group stage.  Remarkably, reigning world champion Oliver Rowland, Jake Dennis and Pascal Wehrlein were all eliminated and start in the midfield.  Duels Drugovich entered the final duel as the favourite for pole, having set a 55.393 in the semi finals. However, several mistakes were made by the Brazilian, costing him a first pole.  Behind Müller and Drugovich on the front row, Antonio Felix da Costa and Nyck de Vries start third and fourth, with Taylor Barnard completing the top five. To make it into the final, Drugovich first defeated Taylor Barnard by just 0.001s in the quarter finals, before getting the better of Antonio Felix da Costa at the semi-final stage.  As for Müller, the Porsche driver knocked-out Nato in the quarter finals and then went quicker than Nyck de Vries in the semi finals. In the other two quarter-final duels, de Vries defeated Cassidy and da Costa eliminated Envision's Eriksson. Group stage Qualifying got underway in chilly conditions in Miami, with rain a genuine possibility for the race. Both groups featured huge shocks, playing a major role in the unexpected grid. In the opening group, Nato went quickest on a 56.765 and was joined in the top four by championship leader Cassidy, de Vries and Müller.  The first group was an action-packed one which saw Edoardo Mortara and Sebastien Buemi collide at the last corner, resulting in a three-place grid penalty for the latter.  While Nato topped the group, reigning world champion Rowland was eliminated and starts on the sixth row. Group B saw further shocks, as a furious Dan Ticktum and Wehrlein were both eliminated, as was Dennis who sits second in the standings. It was a surprising top four, with Barnard posting a 56.562 to go fastest, ahead of da Costa, Eriksson and Drugovich.

2026-01-31T16:46:00+01:00 2026-01-31T16:46:57+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-formula-e-miami-e-prix-qualifying-results Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Porsche's Nico Müller secured pole position for the Formula E Miami E-Prix after defeating Felipe Drugovich in the final duel to claim his first pole in the category. Jaguar's Antonio Felix da Costa, Nyck de Vries and Taylor Barnard complete the top five positions on the grid. It was a qualifying session full of shocks, as reigning world champion Oliver Rowland, Jake Dennis and Pascal Wehrlein were all eliminated in the duels.  Championship leader Nick Cassidy was the only driver in the top four of the standings to escape the group stage. Check out the full qualifying results below! 2026 Formula E Miami E-Prix - Qualifying results

2026-01-31T16:20:00+01:00 2026-01-31T16:56:18+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/what-we-learned-from-f1s-barcelona-pre-season-shakedown-test Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The first pre-season 'shakedown' test is firmly in the 2026 books as F1 teams prepare to crunch their data and take what learnings they can heading to Bahrain in the middle of February.  With the talking finally over and the cars and drivers now speaking for themselves, RacingNews365 takes a look at some of the key things we learned in Barcelona about how the 2026 season could shape up. Mercedes and Ferrari are back in the game Simply looking at the headline times after the five days is misleading, but the Mercedes performance was dominant, even if Lewis Hamilton pipped his former team to the fastest time on the final day.  Over the course of last season and this winter, Mercedes were touted as the favourites owing to its success with the switch to turbo hybrids in 2014, and the team didn't exactly rubbish those claims when it had the chance beyond the usual platitudes. The W17 in the hands of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli racked up 502 laps of Barcelona across the three days, with the car reliable and fast, providing the perfect start for a team which never quite grasped the ground effect rules.  The plan is to already move to set-up work in Bahrain as the team settles nicely into the new era, firmly putting the wilderness years behind it.  Compression ratio, anyone? As for Ferrari, and Hamilton in particular, this test was a crucial yardstick for his future. If the noises from Hamilton after the running were downbeat, it would just compound his misery and make an exit even likelier.  But the Ferrari looked quick, as evidenced by Hamilton's pace-setting 1:16.348s on the final day, and was reliable. He even spoke of his love that the cars were now oversteery again. A Hamilton with his mojo back is a big plus for F1, and chiefly, Ferrari.  The article continues below.  Red Bull's sigh of relief The biggest unknown surrounding Red Bull heading into the new season was its power unit, the first-ever in-house design under the Red Bull Powertrains moniker. Ford is bringing technical support but if the DM01 proved to be a dud, Red Bull would be faced with carrying a lump of scrap around for the first part of the season, at least before it could make changes under the FIA's ADUO safety net for PU manufacturers. Fortunately, the only issue for both Red Bull and Racing Bulls came when Isack Hadjar crashed in the wet on Tuesday, with this not being power unit related. The unit is reliable, has pace, and both were able to clock up a total of 622 laps of Barcelona in total - a critical advantage when fellow fresh newcomer Audi only has one team, more on that in the final section.   The only question now is, when Red Bull turns it up, will it be enough to live with the Mercedes HPP unit? The article continues below.  Aston Martin is here to play Did you expect anything less from Adrian Newey than an extreme design which probably has every other team looking at its car compared to the AMR26, and thinking: 'How did we miss that?' Newey has gone radical and to the very limit of the regulations, and if the AMR26 goes as fast as it looks, then the other teams have a serious problem. The chassis is on point, but the big question mark is the Honda engine. Only a few slow laps were completed on Thursday before Fernando Alonso put the car through its paces on Friday, with the Honda completing the least number of laps of any manufacturer.  As the team hits its stride in Bahrain next time out, stretching and pushing the limits of the power unit will be the team's biggest challenge. If it lives up to the billing of the car it is powering, El Plan could finally come together. Audi and Cadillac at the back Of the nine teams that completed proper running in Barcelona, discounting Aston Martin and Williams, it is safe to say that three distinct groups emerged. In group one are Mercedes, Ferrari, McLaren, and Red Bull, whilst Alpine, Haas, and Racing Bulls make up the midfield order. That leaves Audi and Cadillac, perhaps predictably at the back, in the loosest sense of the word. Audi completed 240 laps and Cadillac 164 as both teams encountered gremlins, of varying degrees, and roughly inverse of each other. For Audi, coming in with its own in-house power unit, it has had to learn the established tricks of running a PU in F1 for the first time, whilst the trackside operations have been smooth given it took over Sauber. For Cadillac, it is learning trackside operations and how to fix things which go wrong whilst having a strong Ferrari engine.  Both were multiple seconds off the pace, but at this very early stage, the race for the so-called wooden spoon is still nowhere close to starting for real. 

2026-01-31T15:10:00+01:00 2026-01-31T16:56:08+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/audi-facing-longest-ever-list-as-true-scale-of-f1-challenge-unmasked Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Audi chief Mattia Binotto says he has "never seen such a long list" of issues it must fix after the Barcelona pre-season shakedown.  In its first pre-season test in F1, Audi completed 240 laps across the permitted three days of running, but Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto were hampered by niggling problems with the R26 machine, with Bortoleto stopping on track on one occasion. Whilst Audi is not the only new power unit manufacturer on the 2026 grid, with Red Bull Powertrains also debuting, it is the only team to be running its own in-house power unit, with RBPT powering both Red Bull and Racing Bulls, meaning twice the data is able to be gathered. Whilst he is optimistic that the team can solve the issues before heading to the Bahrain tests in February, Binotto described how he had "never seen" a list of the length of the problems Audi discovered at the former Spanish Grand Prix host venue.  "It is a lot of work for the entire team, it is a lot of work for the drivers, for the engineers back at home fixing all the problems in design and operationals, whatever we have seen," Binotto explained. "For us, it is no stone left unturned, and we need all the details to be managed and fixed, so we've got a very long, a very, very long list. "I've never seen such a long list, but I think it is great because the team is really committed and willing to improve and come to Bahrain in better shape. "There is a lot to build, a lot to grow, but the three days of running have been very, very important, and I think we are doing well for where we are in our journey. "The reliability is always very critical, but we had several small problems, not dramatic, but there are a lot of positives looking forward. "This is the beginning for Audi of our experience as a team, as a power unit manufacturer, and I would sum up that there is a lot to learn, and we are learning a lot.  "The more we run, the more we learn."

2026-01-31T14:15:00+01:00 2026-01-31T16:56:00+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/radical-aston-martin-on-another-level-as-striking-adrian-newey-influence-clear Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The radical-looking 2026 Aston Martin F1 car has been described as "on another level" with "incredible attention to detail" as the Adrian Newey design turned testing heads. The Honda-powered machine did not head out on track in Spain until late on Thursday, with Lance Stroll completing a handful of slow laps, before veteran Fernando Alonso drove a Newey-designed car for the first time on Friday, completing 49 laps.  Aston Martin has high hopes for the new era of F1, with heavy investment into a state-of-the-art factory at Silverstone, a works Honda engine deal, as well as signing design genius Newey, with his take on the regulations eagerly anticipated. Newey's eye-catching design was dissected by RacingNews365's technical analyst Paolo Filisetti, as an old team hand took to social media to describe the process behind the AMR26. "AMR26 - my 25th F1 car build, but my first "Newey" car," Neil Zambardi-Christie, the fabrication leader, wrote on LinkedIn, having been with the team since its Jordan days and through the Midland, Spyker, Force India, and Racing Point guises. "There's been some great cars over the years (and a couple of shockers), but this one is on another level. The design and attention to detail is incredible, but what's more impressive is the way in which the entire team has risen to the challenges created by the designs and timeframes involved.  "Every single member of staff has had a hand in this, from the factory cleaners, right up to the technical directors, because it's a team effort and everyone should be proud of what we've created.  "A lot of people have worked crazy hours for months on end to get to here and the strain on them and their families and loved ones gets massively underestimated, but their commitment and dedication and sheer bloody hard work is what's got us to this point, so they deserve way more credit than they'll probably ever get, but it's a big thanks from me to all my colleagues.  "A fantastic team effort that I'm proud to be part of. "Time will tell if it's any good, but if it goes as fast as it looks, we could be in for a good year..."

2026-01-31T13:20:00+01:00 2026-01-31T16:55:52+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-pinpoints-key-to-unlocking-huge-red-bull-2026-unknown Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Max Verstappen believes the century of laps he racked up during the final day of F1's Barcelona shakedown will be "key" to helping Red Bull grow its understanding of its new engine. On Friday in Barcelona, Verstappen tallied 118 laps of the track, posting a 1:17.586 as his best effort as Red Bull continues to learn about its new in-house Red Bull Powertrains-Ford engine. Early signs of the RBPT product are that it is competitive and reliable, as Verstappen, who was ill during the week, and new team-mate Isack Hadjar put the RB22 through its paces, although running was disrupted on Tuesday with a crash for Hadjar. Reflecting on the week of running, Verstappen explained how the laps he did on Friday were "key" as one of F1's two newest power unit manufacturers, the other being Audi, completed their first test. "It has been nice to be back on track this week, and the first morning I had in the car, I couldn’t do too many laps because of the weather, but Friday was good," recalled Verstappen.  "We did a lot of laps [on Friday], and that was really the key. We learned a lot, and there are, of course, still a lot of things that we want to look into, but it’s a good start.  "So much work has gone into this power unit over the last few years, and to see it then go into the car and on the first day, immediately do so many laps was great to see. There were a lot of emotional faces in the garage, and that was very special.  "Everything is still a work in progress, but we have hit the ground running quite well. We need time to understand the engine and make setup changes. You try to put as many laps on the board and try as many things as you can in the day.  "I think we are doing that, and this is what this shakedown was about and what we will continue to do. It is a complicated formula for everyone to get right, which means there is still a lot of work to do before we head to Bahrain.  "We will go there and keep the work going."

2026-01-31T12:25:00+01:00 2026-01-31T16:55:36+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lewis-hamilton-drops-major-first-hint-over-2026-ferrari-f1-car Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lewis Hamilton has delivered his verdict on the new generation of F1 cars after topping the Barcelona pre-season shakedown, hinting it could be a return to some of his strengths. Late on the final day of running, Hamilton posted a 1:16.348 to set the quickest time of the week as he looks to bounce back from the horror 2025 season with Ferrari. Hamilton suffered the nadir of his career in his first year at Ferrari, going without a podium all season as he struggled to get to grips with the final ground effect era car, a generation of machine he never clicked with.  Hamilton's preferred driving style of braking hard and early and sharply turning into a corner - 'V-ing' - was at odds with the more 'roll the car into the corner' approach required 'U-ing' by the 2022-2025 cars. Reflecting on the first week in the new designs, Hamilton indicated that some traits he previously enjoyed are back with the 2026-spec machines. "Of course, there were small things, but we didn't really have any downtime moments, where I am sure they could potentially come in the next weeks, but otherwise, it's been a really, really solid couple of days," Hamilton explained. "In terms of understanding the car and the balance, we have a lot less downforce than in previous years. "The car generation is actually a little bit more fun to drive, it is oversteery, snappy and sliding, but it is easier to catch, and I would definitely say more enjoyable. "But we definitely have to improve, as everybody does, but we've had great debriefs, everyone is really on it, and I feel like there is a winning mentality in every single person in the team, more than ever. "It's been a really enjoyable week, and a huge amount of work was done over the winter on my personal side, and then what the team have done to make changes going into the test. "It was an unusual start to the week with a completely wet day, which is something you would normally not opt for, but last year, the first race was the first time I drove the Ferrari in the wet, and that was very hard, so it was good to have that experience and get that knowledge."

2026-01-31T11:30:00+01:00 2026-02-01T13:09:18+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/racing-bulls-deliver-early-verdict-on-new-red-bull-engine Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane has praised the new Red Bull power unit, admitting the team is “pleasantly surprised” by its performance. Red Bull has fielded its own power unit this year for the first time, built in collaboration with Ford. With the units being supplied to both Red Bull-owned teams, no major issues have been reported during the Barcelona shakedown event this week Racing Bulls completed its running on Thursday and is now looking ahead to its next on-track venture, which will be the pre-season test in Bahrain. Permane commended the job carried out by Red Bull and its new power unit department as it allowed Racing Bulls to enjoy a largely uninterrupted shakedown. “A huge learning curve for us, a new power unit manufacturers Red Bull Powertrains with Ford, their partner, have done an incredible job. “The engine, the whole power unit has run very, very reliably. I won’t say we were expecting problems, but we've been pleasantly surprised with how well things have gone. “It’s enabled us to just get on and do our program, and the engine guys have been doing stuff in the background, lots of tests and things like that.” Racing Bulls, like the rest of the teams, has six days of testing left to complete ahead of the season-opening round in Melbourne. Casting a look at the upcoming Bahrain test, Permane said: “We're just excited to get there. We're ready to go. “Three good days here, plenty of mileage, and we'll go there with a very full program for those, those two three-day tests.”

2026-01-31T11:00:00+01:00 2026-01-31T01:07:09+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/nick-cassidy-urges-caution-over-formula-e-title-chances Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Nick Cassidy has urged caution over his title chances ahead of Formula E’s Miami E-Prix, insisting it is too early to think about winning the championship. The New Zealander enters today’s race at the Miami International Autodrome with a four-point advantage over Jake Dennis at the top of the drivers’ standings. Cassidy finds himself leading heading into the third round following a podium and a victory in the opening two races, despite his Citroën outfit being new to the category. It has been a perfect start to life with the French brand for Cassidy, who acknowledged that things have gone better than he expected heading into the season. Asked if the season had started better than he could have imagined, Cassidy told RacingNews365 : "Sure, but at the same time, it’s just those two races. "So yeah, it’s a long way to go. But of course, I’d take a good start over a bad start, and I think it just takes a bit of pressure off us as well, in terms of the team. "We know we can be competitive. We know we can work together well. So there’s no need to do anything or put pressure on ourselves to make things happen faster than they naturally would. It’s all in a good place, but there’s still a long way to go." Cassidy insists too early for title chat Despite only two rounds having passed, it is the usual title protagonists who find themselves in the top four of the standings, with reigning world champion Oliver Rowland and Porsche’s Pascal Wehrlein sitting third and fourth. Another strong result is expected from Cassidy in Miami, a venue likely to produce a typical Formula E pack race, which often sees the 31-year-old among the favourites for victory. Cassidy and Citroën look like a partnership that will only grow stronger as the season develops, despite an already impressive start; however, he is insistent that it is too early to think about the title. Discussing if he can start to consider a title challenge, Cassidy replied: "It’s so early, man. Of course, if you do that, you’re in a good place. You know you’ve got an opportunity, but it’s just so early. "So much has to go right in this championship. I know from last year that you can go from nowhere to being quite good in the standings. So yeah, let’s just take it one race at a time and see."

2026-01-31T10:40:00+01:00 2026-01-31T16:55:44+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/fernando-alonso-confirms-significant-aston-martin-detail-after-f1-test-delay Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Fernando Alonso has confirmed that Aston Martin completed its programme in Barcelona, despite missing the opening three and a half days of the test. The Silverstone-based outfit was not present in the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya paddock at the start of the test and only arrived ready to hit the track on Thursday. Alonso completed 61 laps compared to Lance Stroll’s four, marking the lowest total of any team present at the test. However, unlike Williams, Aston Martin did at least gather some data, with its planned programme for the final day and a half being completed. Alonso’s sole running in the AMR26 came on the final day of the test, marking a “special moment” for the two-time world champion as it represented another new regulatory cycle he has entered. Despite the significance of driving the new car, Alonso is aware that much work is required before not only the next test, but also the first race in Australia. "It’s always a special moment driving a new car for the first time, especially at the start of a new regulation cycle," said Alonso.  "Over the years I’ve experienced many changes in Formula One, and you quickly get a sense of the direction the car is taking.  "We completed a solid programme with strong mileage, which is the main priority at this stage. It’s still very early days and we have a lot of work still to do before we head to Melbourne in March."

2026-01-31T09:50:00+01:00 2026-01-31T11:42:55+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lando-norris-voices-special-moment-as-mclaren-eye-improvement Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lando Norris has said that running the #1 on his car across the five-day Barcelona test was a “special moment” for the entire team, which has already identified "areas to improve". It was a mixed week of running at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for McLaren, which opted not to run until Wednesday. From the get-go, it was not smooth running for the Woking-based outfit, which encountered a fuel system issue on Thursday that saw Oscar Piastri lose an entire afternoon of running. Thankfully for both drivers, the final day of running went smoothly for McLaren, with Norris setting the third-fastest time of the test overall. Across his running, the reigning world champion completed 163 laps, allowing him and the team to outline where improvements are needed ahead of the next test in Bahrain. "[Friday] was a valuable day of learning, and it felt great to be back in the car," said Norris. "I’m grateful to the entire team for their hard work and support.  "It’s a pleasure to drive another McLaren this year, and running the No.1 for the first time was a special moment for all of us throughout the Shakedown. "We’ve identified opportunities and areas to improve, and we’re excited to see what we can do back in Woking as we prepare for Bahrain.  "We have plenty of additional things to learn this week in the simulator, alongside our Simulator and Development Drivers, and I'm looking forward to getting to work on those.  "These cars definitely require a new way of thinking and driving and the more time spent working on those, the better prepared we will be for the start of the season."

2026-01-31T09:00:00+01:00 2026-01-31T11:42:32+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mercedes-reveal-bahrain-test-insight-after-successful-barcelona-shakedown Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mercedes trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin has explained the team's approach to the upcoming Bahrain pre-season test. The Brackley-based squad enjoyed a highly positive Barcelona shakedown as George Russell and Kimi Antonelli clocked 502 laps between them throughout three days of running. Such was the efficiency of the event, Shovlin previously noted that Mercedes had ticked all of its boxes across the first two days of on-track action. Having given the W17 car its initial run at a Silverstone event prior to its appearance in Barcelona, Shovlin asserted both outings have proven successful for Mercedes. “For every event, whether it was the shakedown in Silverstone or the first test, we have an idea of what objectives we want to achieve,” he said.  “We've pretty much ticked all of those boxes for these two.” Bahrain will host two tests next month, running from February 11 - 13, before the final pre-season outing on February 18 - 20. Mercedes head to the Bahrain tests in strong shape as Shovlin outlined that the focus will shift more to extracting pace from the car. “Bahrain, we're going to move more to set up exploration, trying to work out how you get the car in the right window,” he said. “And while you can do setup here [in Barcelona], it's so cold, it's not really relevant to any race track.  “Bahrain is going to be a much better place to check that the car runs well at temperature, both in terms of the chassis performance side but also just the systems running effectively. “That final Bahrain [test] hopefully will be more just about the race preparation.  “So preparing for qualifying, preparing for the race, and all the situations that that throws up.”

2026-01-31T08:10:00+01:00 2026-01-31T11:41:25+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/oscar-piastri-backed-to-return-with-a-vengeance-after-painful-lando-norris-defeat Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Oscar Piastri has been backed to return F1 this season "with a vengeance" following his agonising title defeat to McLaren team-mate Lando Norris last year. Piastri appeared on course to become Australia's first champion since Alan Jones in 1980, following his grand chelem Dutch Grand Prix triumph, which saw him open up a 34-point lead over Norris, who had suffered a rare retirement in that race. After that point, however, the season started to unravel for Piastri, who led the title race for 15 consecutive rounds until being deposed by Norris with four grands prix remaining. The 24-year-old eventually lost out to Norris by 13 points, even sliding to third in the drivers' standings following an astonishing end to the season from Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who came within two points of clinching a fifth successive title. Assessing how Piastri will fare this season, former F1 driver and Sky Sports co-commentator Martin Brundle, said: "He'll come back with a vengeance. To be honest, it was partly painful, partly brilliant for him last year. He learned a lot. "I think it's openly accepted that on the really low-grip circuits, he's not getting the best out of the car and out of the tyres, so he knows he's got to fix that. "But some of the victories he had were so dominant, so impressive, and I think he'll take a lot from that. "I'm sure it was painful in the end for him, and I think that will be a driver. "We've observed him. He's an incredibly bright lad, and he's clearly competitive. He's a worker, and I think he'll come back having made a big step forward." Piastri: 'Lessons to be learned' Piastri concedes that this season will be different from anything he has previously experienced, particularly with regard to energy management. Under the new wide-sweeping regulations, the cars are powered by a 50-50 split in combustion and electric, and the battery is now solely MGU-K, providing 350kW compared to the previous 120kW. Following a reasonable run in testing, bar a fuel system issue that confined him to the garage on Thursday afternoon after a solid morning, Piastri knows the forthcoming campaign will be "a challenge and exciting". He said: "You know, there are a lot of areas where you can be a point of difference and make a point of difference, but you've got to put in the hard work to make that happen. "There are a lot of challenges for all of us up and down the grid. There are going to be some aspects of these cars that we've never really had to do before in our careers, so there are plenty of lessons to be learned."

2026-01-31T07:20:00+01:00 2026-01-31T09:00:14+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/ferrari-delivered-stark-confidence-game-warning-with-lewis-hamilton-and-charles-leclerc Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Former F1 driver Anthony Davidson is hopeful Ferrari listened to drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc over the F1 winter break to ensure they hit the ground running this year. Leclerc and Hamilton endured a difficult 2025 campaign, with neither driver winning a grand prix, and in the case of the seven-time F1 champion, failing to score a podium for the first time in his F1 career. Last season, in attempting to address some of the difficulties he was encountering at Ferrari, following his years with Mercedes, which helped him win six of his titles, Hamilton went so far as to send documents to team boss Fred Vasseur and his wider team with suggestions for improvements. Ferrari has already implemented one change by replacing Hamilton's race engineer, although no announcement has yet been made as to who will succeed Riccardo Adami. Davidson would like to believe that Hamilton and Leclerc have not been ignored, and that changes have been applied.  "Who knows how the performance is going to be this year," said Davidson, speaking on Sky Sports F1 . "The one thing we do know is that they have two great racing drivers, two very experienced racing drivers that the team should listen to. "Hopefully they listened to both of them over the winter, or even before that, and have channelled their energy, their focus, into giving the drivers what they feel they need out on track, and what's important to them - how you go about building a modern-day F1 car to the best of your ability to fit what the driver needs. "It's a confidence game. The driver needs to feel comfortable and confident inside the car." Highlighting what he saw with Hamilton last year following his move, Davidson added: :Lewis, particularly, a new driver within that team last year, didn't feel confident in that car. "We saw moments where he was having spins all by himself, going off the track all by himself, moments we've never seen before from Lewis, at least on a regular basis. "It rang alarm bells for me, and it should have as well for the team, because it proves that the car wasn't to his liking. "It's not always up to the driver to get used to the car, [and the team saying] 'This is the car. You deal with it'. "It's a team game, and you should rely on those two drivers to optimise the tools that you have back at the factory."

2026-01-31T06:30:00+01:00 2026-01-31T09:00:44+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/oscar-piastri-issues-mclaren-test-relief-after-costly-problem Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Oscar Piastri has expressed his relief at enjoying a smooth morning session on Friday, following a difficult week in Barcelona for McLaren. The five-day test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya did not go entirely to plan for the Woking-based outfit, with significant time lost on Thursday. McLaren did not run until Wednesday and then lost the entirety of Thursday afternoon after a fuel system issue while Piastri was in the car. To Piastri’s relief, the problem was fixed in time for him to drive on Friday morning, with the Australian completing 80 laps and dipping into the mid-1m 17s. It offered Piastri a genuine opportunity to gain significant mileage in the MCL40 ahead of the two three-day tests in Bahrain. Thanks to the volume of trouble-free running on Friday, Piastri was finally able to get into a rhythm. Asked how his morning went, Piastri said: "Yeah, it was good — nice to get some good laps on the board this morning. Much smoother day than the first two we've had, so that was nice. "And yeah, I got into a pretty good rhythm and was able to start to feel what the car is actually like, which was good. I tried a few things already to see how we can improve it and things like that. "But we're just trying to run it in different configurations and different settings to see what it's like for race weekends. "So, all in all, I think it was a pretty successful morning."

2026-01-30T22:00:00+01:00 2026-01-30T23:18:29+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-stuns-martin-brundle-as-lewis-hamilton-fastest-as-barcelona-test-ends-racingnews365-review Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Martin Brundle has been left far from surprised by what he has seen so far from Red Bull Powertrains' debut in F1 given what he saw when on a tour of its facilities by former team boss Christian Horner. Heading into the upcoming season, there was a question mark over Red Bull and its new Powertrains department, bearing in mind it has constructed its own power unit for the first time in its 20-year history. READ MORE: Martin Brundle left stunned after Red Bull tour: 'My God, this is unbelievable!' 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 5 results And that's a wrap! The fifth and final day of private testing at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya has concluded, and for almost all of those present, it has been a very productive week. There were 12 drivers on track across the day, and it was Ferrari's Charles Leclerc who went quickest in the morning, before Lewis Hamilton took over in the SF-26.  READ MORE: 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 5 results Donald Trump signs order for major street race in Washington D.C US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to begin the process of bringing an IndyCar race to the streets of Washington, D.C. On Friday, in the Oval Office in the presence of Transport Secretary Sean Duffy and IndyCar owner Roger Penske, Trump signed an executive order confirming plans for the 'Freedom 250' to take place on the streets of the US capital.  READ MORE: Donald Trump signs order for major street race in Washington D.C Max Verstappen reveals illness in challenging Red Bull test Max Verstappen has revealed that he has been unwell throughout this week’s five-day test in Barcelona, making it a challenging period for Red Bull. The four-time world champion’s time in the RB22 was spread out across the test, with his first outing coming during the Tuesday morning session. READ MORE: Max Verstappen reveals illness in challenging Red Bull test Exclusive: Usain Bolt in shock talks to become Formula E team investor Eight-time Olympic gold medallist and one of the greatest athletes of all time, Usain Bolt exclusively revealed to RacingNews365 that he is pushing to become an investor in a Formula E team. Ahead of this weekend’s Miami E-Prix at the Miami International Autodrome, Bolt attended an event organised by title partner ABB on Thursday evening, which was also attended by RacingNews365.  READ MORE: Exclusive: Usain Bolt in shock talks to become Formula E team investor Cadillac land major Sergio Perez sponsor Cadillac has reaped the reward from its signing of Sergio Perez by landing one of the Mexican driver's long-term partners. Perez has been heavily supported throughout his F1 career by a plethora of major Mexican brands, leading to América Movil opting to partner with F1's newest team. READ MORE: Cadillac land major Sergio Perez sponsor

2026-01-30T21:30:00+01:00 2026-01-30T23:19:02+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/liam-lawson-details-team-mate-priority-in-new-racing-bulls-partnership Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Liam Lawson has insisted maintaining a strong communication link with new team-mate Arvid Linbdlad will be key to Racing Bulls' season. Lindblad has received a promotion to F1 this year and will be the sport's only rookie driver for the upcoming season. He joins Lawson at the Red Bull sister team, who got their campaign up and running at the Barcelona shakedown this week. Given he is the more experienced driver in the line-up, Lawson will be leaned on more to steer the direction of car development, which is likely to prove crucial this year as F1 enters a new cycle of technical regulations. When asked to assess his relationship with Lindblad, Lawson said: “So far it has been good. “It’s a very different year to come into F1 with these cars. “So obviously for us, it's important to communicate well and work together on trying to build this car as quick as possible. So far, it’s been good.” Racing Bulls did not take to the track on Friday as it completed its three days of running prior to the final day of action. Next up for the team is pre-season testing in Bahrain in just under two weeks' time. Describing what will be on the team's agenda, Lawson said: “Honestly, just to keep learning. “It’s so early days at the moment, we're going to go to Bahrain on a very different track with very different climate as well. “It’s gonna be very, very different. It's going be great for us to learn how the car performs at very different places, different tracks. “Outside of that, the main goal is to just try and keep learning and improving the car and discovering what we can.”

2026-01-30T21:19:00+01:00 2026-01-30T21:19:58+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-formula-e-miami-e-prix-rookie-practice-results Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Envision's Zak O'Sullivan topped the rookie practice session at the Miami International Autodrome, ahead of this weekend's Formula E Miami E-Prix.  The annual 40-minute practice for rookie drivers saw O'Sullivan go quickest on a 55.810, just under one-tenth ahead of 2023 F2 champion Theo Pourchaire.  Current F2 driver Gabriele Mini went third for Nissan, while current full-time rookie driver Pepe Martí had to settle for fourth. Nikita Bedrin completed the top five for DS Penske, while reigning DTM champion Ayhancan Güven was a surprise down in eighth and almost eight-tenths adrift. Check out the full results below! 2026 Formula E Miami E-Prix - Rookie practice results

2026-01-30T20:45:00+01:00 2026-01-31T16:55:25+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lewis-hamilton-hails-ferrari-effort-after-topping-barcelona-test Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lewis Hamilton has hailed Ferrari’s incredible effort across the winter break in putting together a solid SF-26 package, which avoided any "major problems" throughout the Barcelona test. The seven-time world champion was first in the car on Tuesday afternoon in wet conditions, an experience he later reflected on as being "valuable". He returned to the car on Thursday and again on Friday afternoon, with the veteran setting the quickest lap of the test in the final hour of running. Hamilton set a 1m 16.348 to post the fastest time of the test, filling the Scuderia with hope. In addition, the Briton completed 204 laps of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The test has left the 41-year-old feeling very optimistic; however, he is aware that all the data must be assessed before the two three-day tests in Bahrain next month. "It’s been a really productive and enjoyable week," said Hamilton. "There has been a huge amount of work over the winter, both personally and from everyone in the team, and it’s good to see that reflected in the mileage we’ve been able to complete without major issues.  "Driving in wet conditions early on was actually a valuable experience, especially with a new car, and overall it’s been a solid start.  "There’s still a lot to learn and plenty of work to do, but the atmosphere in the team is positive and focused.  "Now we’ll take everything we’ve learned, continue analysing the data and prepare carefully for the Bahrain test."

2026-01-30T20:15:00+01:00 2026-01-30T23:18:18+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/donald-trump-signs-order-for-major-street-race-in-washington-d-c Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to begin the process of bringing an IndyCar race to the streets of Washington, D.C. On Friday, in the Oval Office in the presence of Transport Secretary Sean Duffy and IndyCar owner Roger Penske, Trump signed an executive order confirming plans for the 'Freedom 250' to take place on the streets of the US capital.  The race, which is planned for the weekend of August 21st-23rd will be the first-ever motorsport event in the US capital, to celebrate the 250th birthday of America, after the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The logistics of shutting down Washington for the race are yet to be defined, with the race slotting in between a trip to Markham in Ontario in Canada and a double-header at the Milwaukee Mile the next weekend.  Speaking after the signing ceremony, the full executive order was released, with Trump signing the document, which read:  "IndyCar racing is a source of pride and entertainment for our Nation, which is why I am pleased to announce the Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C.. "This race, the first motor race ever to be held in our Nation’s capital near the National Mall, will showcase the majesty of our great city as drivers navigate a track around our iconic national monuments in celebration of America’s 250th birthday. "For over one hundred years, American IndyCar racing has set the pace for motorsports. With speeds topping over 200 miles per hour, the cars and drivers inspire awe and respect in all who watch this quintessentially American sport." The full executive order is available to read by clicking this link.

2026-01-30T19:45:00+01:00 2026-01-31T11:14:21+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-lap-count-per-driver-and-team Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com If critics thought these past five days at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya would be a repeat of the carnage witnessed in testing 12 years ago, then they were sorely mistaken. In 2014, F1 introduced the new 1.6-litre turbo hybrid power units, and for the most part, the first few days of testing were a disaster as cars either failed to make it out of the garage or, when they did, they broke down on track all too quickly. Potentially fearing such misery would occur again given the major change to the PU for this season, the teams opted to conduct a private five-day test this past week, banning fans and media from attending. The PU is powered by a mix of combustion and electrical energy, whilst the MGU-H has been axed, and the MGU-K beefed up to provide 350kW instead of the previous 120kW. But there was no need for any concern, as the cars ran reliably, with many drivers and teams racking up the laps and kilometres, as per any normal test in the past. Check out the laps and kilometres covered by each driver and team below!

2026-01-30T19:18:00+01:00 2026-01-30T20:21:46+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-reveals-illness-in-challenging-red-bull-test Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Max Verstappen has revealed that he has been unwell throughout this week’s five-day test in Barcelona, making it a challenging period for Red Bull. The four-time world champion’s time in the RB22 was spread out across the test, with his first outing coming during the Tuesday morning session. Following Isack Hadjar’s heavy crash that afternoon, Verstappen was unable to complete any further running until Friday. Verstappen drove for the entirety of the final day and set the fifth-quickest lap, clocking a 1m 17.586. In addition, the Dutchman completed 118 laps of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Hadjar’s crash made the week significantly more challenging than it needed to be for the Milton Keynes-based outfit, although Verstappen has insisted that it was still a positive week. "We learned a lot, even though I wasn’t able to drive very much on the first morning. We will now analyse all the data," said Verstappen. "It’s clear that there are still many things we want to improve, but I think that’s normal. Overall, the fact that we were able to do so many laps this week with a new engine is positive.  "It’s a good start, but it’s also still very early in the year." During the post-Friday interview, Verstappen sounded unwell, before confirming that he had been ill across the week. "By the start of the season, I’m sure I’ll be feeling better…" he said.

2026-01-30T18:30:00+01:00 2026-01-30T20:22:26+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-complete-fastest-lap-times Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com It has been a fascinating five days of pre-season testing at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya. Whilst optimum lap time was not the main driver of the test, there were still some impressive times at the top of the charts, led by Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time F1 champion set the best time of the week late on the final day on Friday with a 1:16.348s. Okay, it was five seconds slower than last year's Spanish GP pole position, but just seven-tenths of a second down behind the fastest lap in the race. The obvious caveat, of course, is that these are very different cars given the major change in the regulations, whilst configurations, fuel loads and track conditions, given the cold temperatures across the course of the week, must also be taken into consideration. See the full results below for each driver's fastest lap this week!

2026-01-30T18:10:00+01:00 2026-02-01T07:07:30+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-5-results Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com And that's a wrap! The fifth and final day of private testing at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya has concluded, and for almost all of those present, it has been a very productive week. There were 12 drivers on track across the day, and it was Ferrari's Charles Leclerc who went quickest in the morning, before Lewis Hamilton took over in the SF-26.  Hamilton topped the afternoon session on the final day, setting the quickest lap time of the entire test. The Ferrari driver set a 1m 16.348, to go two-tenths clear of Lando Norris. Leclerc's morning lap was enough to end Day 5 in third, ahead of Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen. Check out the full results below!

2026-01-30T16:45:00+01:00 2026-01-30T20:21:22+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/exclusive-usain-bolt-in-shock-talks-to-become-formula-e-team-investor Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Eight-time Olympic gold medallist and one of the greatest athletes of all time, Usain Bolt exclusively revealed to RacingNews365 that he is pushing to become an investor in a Formula E team. Ahead of this weekend’s Miami E-Prix at the Miami International Autodrome, Bolt attended an event organised by title partner ABB on Thursday evening, which was also attended by RacingNews365.  The event saw the Jamaican light up the Miami Tower while seated in the cockpit of a Formula E car. The 100m, 200m and 4x100m world record holder is no stranger to the all-electric series, having driven one of its cars in Mexico City two years ago. Bolt is a huge supporter of the championship and an admirer of the work it does around sustainability. Asked for his thoughts on Formula E, Bolt exclusively told RacingNews365 at the ABB event: "Yeah, I’ve tried to follow it as much as I possibly can. "I mean, it’s really growing, and that’s something that is always great because, again, it’s big on the environment, and it’s great for clean energy. So that’s something that I’m happy to see growing and getting bigger." Talks held over possible Formula E investment In recent years, an increasing number of stars from the sporting world, celebrities and influencers have invested in motorsport teams, particularly across F1, MotoGP and Formula E. The most prominent new investor in Formula E is actor Idris Elba, who became a strategic investor in the Cupra Kiro outfit in February 2025. Bolt has held talks with his inner circle about investing in a Formula E team, although he would not name which team in particular, with the 39-year-old eager to make it happen. Discussing if becoming a Formula E team investor is on his radar, Bolt revealed: "That’s something that we’ve discussed. "There have been talks; it’s just about getting the right team and the right people together to really get it off the ground. "So my team and I will definitely talk about it. And as I said, it’s always a great initiative to get into something that’s really grown and is going in the right direction." Deciding which team to invest into is something Bolt is actively thinking about, with it all being about everything fitting together correctly. Pushed on whether it is something he is actively pursuing, the Olympic legend replied: "Yeah, that’s something that we’ve discussed. "And it’s just about getting everything together, getting it on the right track, and seeing if it will be the right move."

2026-01-30T16:15:00+01:00 2026-01-30T16:56:08+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/charles-leclerc-challenged-by-steep-learning-curve-with-new-ferrari Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Charles Leclerc has admitted there is a “steep learning curve” with the new F1 cars for 2026, which have seen drastic changes from their predecessors. This year's challengers have been fitted with brand new power units which have changed for the first time in 12 years, while new aerodynamic regulations have also come into effect. Leclerc and team-mate Lewis Hamilton took part in the Barcelona shakedown this week, giving the team the first chance to collect data on the SF-26. After facing wet conditions on Tuesday, Leclerc had an opportunity to test the car in the dry on Thursday for the first time before climbing back behind the wheel on Friday morning. "It's super interesting," Leclerc said, assessing the new car. "It was the first day for me in the car in normal conditions, so a lot to learn, a lot to discover and it's a very different car to what we've been driving since I arrived in Formula 1. “I take that as a challenge and I actually quite like that everything is new and then there might be an opportunity for us drivers to think outside the box.” One of the most significant changes relating to the new power unit is the increase in electrical output, which now matches the combustion engine. Leclerc acknowledged that adjusting to that change has proven to be a challenge for him during the week. "I definitely feel more and more comfortable,” he said. “It remains an F1 car as well in a way, it's not like I was completely lost when I got back into the car and I was at ease quite quickly.  “With these new systems and obviously with 50 per cent of the power that comes from the electrical engine, it makes it quite a bit more challenging to manage that, so the learning curve is quite steep. But it's very interesting."

2026-01-30T15:26:00+01:00 2026-01-31T08:09:53+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/cadillac-land-major-sergio-perez-sponsor Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Cadillac has reaped the reward from its signing of Sergio Perez by landing one of the Mexican driver's long-term partners. Perez has been heavily supported throughout his F1 career by a plethora of major Mexican brands, leading to América Movil opting to partner with F1's newest team. The Mexican telecommunications giant will be represented by its familiar names - Telcel, Infinitum, and Claro - which will be on the cars and in the paddock. Cadillac's global head of commercial strategy Tyler Epp said: “We are delighted to welcome América Móvil to the Cadillac Formula 1 Team at this exciting stage in our journey. "Above all, we want to be a strong contributor to the sport, and having brands with a long history of Formula 1 participation will help us connect authentically with existing fans of Formula 1 while reaching ones in emerging markets." Swayed by Perez signing for Cadillac, América Móvil chief marketing officer Marcela Velasco Cámara said: "When Sergio joined the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, we saw the scale of their ambition, and it was only natural for us to be part of their journey. "Our partnership with the Cadillac Formula 1 Team reflects América Móvil’s vision of advancing world-class technology platforms that connect talent, speed, and innovation with millions of people. "Through brands such as Telcel, Infinitum, and Claro, we reaffirm our commitment to technological development, high-performance sport, and an increasingly global, passionate, and discerning fan base."

2026-01-30T14:45:00+01:00 2026-02-01T13:09:37+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/martin-brundle-left-stunned-after-red-bull-tour-my-god-this-is-unbelievable Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Martin Brundle has been left far from surprised by what he has seen so far from Red Bull Powertrains' debut in F1 given what he saw when on a tour of its facilities by former team boss Christian Horner. Heading into the upcoming season, there was a question mark over Red Bull and its new Powertrains department, bearing in mind it has constructed its own power unit for the first time in its 20-year history. After the first four days of testing at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya, however, Red Bull and Racing Bulls had combined for just over 500 laps, at least ticking a box on reliability and providing a platform on which to build. To many, that has come as a surprise, yet for former F1 driver and Sky Sports co-commentator Brundle, that has been far from the case. "They've done really well, haven't they?" he said, speaking on Sky Sports F1 . "I remember Christian Horner took me around the engine factory more than one and a half years ago, and I thought, 'My God, this is unbelievable!' "The scale of it, the number of people and the facilities and the dynos they had there, so I'm not that surprised, if I'm honest. I know they're new to Formula 1 power units, but they've a lot of good people there, a lot of resource and it's a great facility." Oh so different to 2014 Brundle feels Mercedes has "the upper hand at the moment" after running for 500 laps in its own right over its allowed three days of testing, and will have an advantage in supplying three other teams - McLaren, Alpine and Williams, although the latter has been absent this week. With the two teams providing data, Red Bull Powertrains also has an edge over the likes of Aston Martin and Audi. "Ferrari looks pretty solid as well," he said. "I think the teams that have the biggest challenge, for example, Aston Martin with Honda, because there's only one of them, and Audi. There's only one of them. "At least Red Bull has the two teams with the power unit, and Mercedes will eventually have four teams charging round, so their learning capacity, their rate of gain will be higher, I believe. So that bodes very well for those four teams eventually." Generally, Brundle expressed "relief" at what he had seen overall, comparing it to what happened 12 years ago when F1 introduced the new hybrid system PUs. "Given it's clearly the biggest change in the history of Formula 1, with the power unit and the chassis, with the active aero, we were expecting gremlins and problems," he said. "I guess we all remember 2014 when the new hybrid engines came in and the cars weren't getting out on track, and if they did, they broke down straight away. "It just reminds you of the level of investment in Formula 1, the quality of the people and the facilities, that they could just rock up and start charging around the racetrack, because the cars are so complex now. " I am very impressed by how the teams have largely got their acts together and just got on with it."

2026-01-30T13:55:00+01:00 2026-01-30T16:55:43+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/pierre-gasly-sets-f1-driver-first-with-guenther-steiner-partnership Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Pierre Gasly has become the first active F1 driver to invest in a MotoGP team, forming part of an investor group behind Guenther Steiner's Red Bull KTM Tech3 team. At the start of this year, former Haas team principal Steiner became CEO of Tech 3 as he switched from four wheels to two, joining forces with Richard Coleman, a touring car veteran and sports management specialist, who has become team principal. Along with IKON Capital, Steiner and Coleman completed a takeover of Tech3, which has today announced its full ownership structure. Bolt Ventures and Main Street Advisors have now bolstered the acquisition. In addition, Alpine driver Gasly is among a range of names in the investor group. He said: "I have a strong conviction in the strength of the Tech3 brand and the long-term growth of the MotoGP sport. "Tech3 has significant untapped potential, and I look forward to contributing to further elevating the team’s profile." Gasly has beaten the likes of Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen to the punch in terms of MotoGP investment, as both drivers have been linked with a move in the past. It is not Gasly's first venture into sports investment. Two years ago, he became a joint shareholder of third-tier French football club, FC Versailles. The overall investment in Tech3 is significant, as outlined by Steiner. "It’s a very exciting time to be entering MotoGP, and it was important to IKON Capital and me to bring together a group of like-minded investors who share a long-term vision for the Tech3 team," he said. "We are joined by a strong group that understands motorsport, brings genuine value-added capabilities, and shares our core values. "Just as importantly, we are committed to preserving Tech3’s heritage while taking a measured, strategic approach to growth. This is about building on what already works, and I’m looking forward to working together to shape the team’s future." Bolt Ventures is fronted by David Blitzer, a managing partner of the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers and NHL's New Jersey Devils, whilst Main Street Advisors was founded by Paul Wachter, who is also a partner at Fenway Sports Group, whose ownership portfolio includes English Premier League side Liverpool and MLB's Boston Red Sox.

2026-01-30T13:15:00+01:00 2026-01-30T20:20:45+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-5-morning-results Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Charles Leclerc has ended the final morning session from the Barcelona shakedown on top of the timesheet for Ferrari. The Monegasque driver clocked a 1:16.653, which is just a couple of tenths slower than the fastest time of the test so far, set by George Russell on Thursday. Oliver Bearman set the highest number of laps in the opening hours and was the only driver to breach the century mark. After tallying just four laps on Thursday, Aston Martin got more mileage under its belt on Friday morning with Fernando Alonso behind the wheel. Audi, who has faced a challenging week so far, also managed 66 laps across the morning - by far its most productive session of the test. See the full results from the morning below! 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 5 Morning Results

2026-01-30T12:20:00+01:00 2026-01-30T16:55:30+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-and-ford-handed-crucial-assessment-it-cant-be-underestimated Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull and Ford have been handed high praise for the delivery of a power unit which had raised doubts prior to this week's first pre-season F1 test in Barcelona. Red Bull has never shied away from the fact that building its own power unit for the first time, going up against the might of Ferrari and Mercedes and their renowned history in the field, was always going to be an uphill task. Over the opening three days of the private test at the Circuit de Catalunya, though, Red Bull and Racing Bulls delivered a combined 393 laps, with no reliability issues. Liam Lawson added a further 64 before lunch on Thursday. Racing Bulls chief technical officer Tim Goss claims the job conducted by Red Bull Powertrains, in tandem with assistance from Ford has been "really, really impressive". Goss added: "To come as a complete newcomer to Formula 1 and on your very first day, to then get nearly 200 laps under your belt, it's easy to take this level of reliability for granted, but it can't be underestimated what they've achieved. "Drivability is really good. To be honest, the drivability is fantastic." Appreciating the difficulties of the new PU, which is run via a 50-50 split of combustion and electrical power, Goss said: "The difficulty that we, and probably all the other teams are coming to grips with is just how the energy management changes a little bit from lap to lap, from corner to corner. "We're trying to wonder, to understand how best to tune all of that, and for the drivers, just to get used to it." Racing Bulls 'up for the fight' Although Racing Bulls has been off the pace so far, lap times this week are irrelevant. As far as Goss is concerned, for his team, it is simply a case of gaining knowledge and experience of the new system and car, and incrementally building up performance. "We're really excited," he said. "It's a new phase. We've spent all this time creating the car, and now we're actually getting to run it and understand it in real life. "It is just so exciting to have so much that's changed, and so much to play with, and just so much to look forward to, in terms of creativity. All the engineers are thrilled to bits. "We're getting on to this next phase, which is to build more and more performance, and everyone's up for the fight, basically. It's going to be fantastic."

2026-01-30T11:30:00+01:00 2026-01-30T12:31:23+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mercedes-strike-early-fear-into-f1-rivals-with-stunning-barcelona-test Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mercedes' F1 rivals will no doubt have raised eyebrows at what they have seen this week from the German manufacturing giant. Although it is only the first test of F1's latest, but wide-sweeping regulatory era, there were signs of early bulletproof reliability from a team that dominated the sport the last time a new power unit was introduced in 2014. Mercedes also emerged as the early pacesetter during the closed-door Barcelona test during its time on track, to add to its impressive mileage with its new W17, although not too much can be read into the stopwatch at this stage. Nevertheless, the Silver Arrows made a statement over its three days, which concluded on Thursday, with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli combining for a staggering 500 laps of permitted running, or 2,328.5 kilometres, showcasing the reliability of the car's new chassis and power unit. The team's smooth progress stood out in contrast to some of the teething difficulties faced elsewhere in the paddock. Mercedes' engine customers have also benefited from this reliability. McLaren, despite being late to the testing party on Wednesday, and Alpine have enjoyed a relatively solid start, although the former encountered a fuel system issue on Thursday with its MCL40, which consigned Oscar Piastri to the garage for the afternoon session. From champion Lando Norris' perspective, after his 76 laps on Wednesday, he said "the car worked exactly as McLaren had hoped", highlighting both the chassis system and the Mercedes power unit's contribution to its successful running. The German manufacturer's technical prowess has allowed it to shift focus beyond basic reliability. Technical director Andrew Shovlin revealed that Mercedes could concentrate on setup work during Thursday's running. From that perspective, it arguably now has a baseline not many of its competitors will possess going into the two three-day tests in Bahrain in February. While Mercedes explored its setup options and refined its package, several rivals encountered significant setbacks. Aston Martin only fired up its new Honda engine on Thursday, whilst Audi has faced technical problems with its R26, underlining the challenges posed by the heavily revised 2026 regulations. Although Red Bull and Ferrari have also achieved respectable mileage totals so far, with one day of running still available for both teams on Friday, Mercedes has clearly established itself as the benchmark for reliability during these crucial early days. Its seamless integration of new technology, whilst its competitors adapt, suggests the Silver Arrows may have gained a vital head start ahead of the new regulatory era.

2026-01-30T10:40:00+01:00 2026-01-30T16:55:16+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/aston-martin-emotional-over-f1-2026-debut-after-barcelona-delay Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Aston Martin chief trackside officer Mike Krack has labelled the team's on-track debut as “emotional”. The Silverstone-based squad was delayed in getting its car to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for the pre-season shakedown event. In the closing stages of Thursday's test, the car emerged from the garage with Lance Stroll behind the wheel. There is much anticipation surrounding Aston Martin's car this year as it is the team's first challenger built by Adrian Newey - regarded as one of the sport's greatest designers. The car's features turned heads when it rolled out of the garage , as Krack highlighted the importance of the moment for the team. “Each time when you have a new car, it's always emotional,” he said. “It's a very, very, very exciting moment. A lot of hard work went into it over the last days. “There's still a lot of work to come, but I think we can take a breath and be happy that we rolled out the car.  “It was really emotional and a nice moment for the team and a tribute to the hard work that everybody put in.  The AMR26 managed just four laps before it stuttered to a halt on the track, equipped with the new Honda power unit. Aston Martin now has one final day of running to get through in Barcelona before it heads to Bahrain for the second test. “F1 is relentless,” Krack added.  “You always have to look forward, and there will be much more hard work to come, but we're looking forward to that.”

2026-01-30T09:50:00+01:00 2026-01-30T11:51:55+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-explain-concern-which-forced-team-to-strip-car-down Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com McLaren has offered an insight into the issues it faced on Thursday in Barcelona which limited its on-track running. Oscar Piastri jumped behind the wheel of the MCL40 for the first time, as reigning champion Lando Norris gave the car its debut on Wednesday. Piastri completed 48 laps in the morning session but did not make an appearance in the afternoon due to a car issue. McLaren technical director for performance, Mark Temple, revealed that it was related to the fuel system. “We've got a good understanding of where the car is from a baseline point of view,” he said. “But obviously we've had some issues. We've not been able to do all the running that we would like.  “We discovered a fuel system problem.  “The car is very complex, so we decided to bring it back into the garage, strip it down, and fully understand where the problem is coming from.” McLaren has already outlined that it is treating the week like a true shakedown and none of its running is aimed at extracting performance. With Piastri getting his first experience with the car built under a fresh set of regulations, Temple stated the Australian is now more tuned in to the new systems. “The most important thing for the drivers this year is to understand how the new car operates, how the power unit interacts, the energy management, all of those things,” he said.  “He's got some good references for that. He's also got a feel for how the chassis behaves.  “We haven't really got into test items and those kind of things. It's more understanding the basics and the really big impact of the change from 2025 to 2026.”

2026-01-30T09:00:00+01:00 2026-01-30T20:20:29+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/live-2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-5 Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The final day of the official Formula 1 shakedown test takes place today at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Mercedes will not feature after completing its third day of running on Thursday, with the Silver Arrows having gathered 500 laps worth of data.  Aston Martin also hit the track at last on Thursday and will be looking to gather a full day's worth of data today.  Red Bull face a race against time to repair its RB22 for Max Verstappen, who is yet to feature since Tuesday morning.  It is the final chance for the teams to collect data ahead of the next pre-season test next month in Bahrain. We will provide you with all of the happenings we can during the day of running, which you can follow in the live updates below!

2026-01-30T08:10:00+01:00 2026-01-30T10:00:33+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lewis-hamilton-ferrari-hopes-raised-last-year-was-worse Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lewis Hamilton’s hopes for Ferrari ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season have been raised, with last year’s testing having gone “worse” despite the major regulation changes. Ferrari has made steady progress across the five-day test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, pleasing both Hamilton and Charles Leclerc. Thursday morning marked Hamilton’s second session in the car, but his first in dry conditions, with the veteran pleased to have finally experienced the SF-26 in clear weather. Hamilton completed 85 laps, which represented significant mileage for Ferrari’s new power unit, which has continued to run smoothly. Despite the scale of the regulatory changes, Ferrari’s running has largely been trouble-free, to the extent that Hamilton has already judged this year’s testing to be better than 12 months ago. Asked if the team is where it hoped it would be, Hamilton replied: "I don't know. Of course, when you come to a test, you always hope to get a lot of mileage. "Like [on Thursday], I did 85 laps in the morning, which is amazing. And that's really down to all the people at the factory who have done such a great job to make sure the car, so far, is really reliable. "So, you know, last year we had a worse start to testing, and considering this is a completely new set of regulations, it's actually better than we've experienced in the past. "So I'm really hopeful that continues."

2026-01-30T07:20:00+01:00 2026-01-30T10:00:37+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lando-norris-still-trying-to-accept-f1-reality Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lando Norris has admitted he is still attempting to come to terms with his championship success from last year. Norris clinched his maiden F1 title at the season finale in Abu Dhabi, triumphing over Max Verstappen by just two points. The Briton got his 2026 campaign up and running on Wednesday as he gave the MCL40 - McLaren's car for the upcoming season - its on-track debut in Barcelona. Norris noted the car feels “pretty different” compared to its predecessor , having been built as part of a brand new set of technical regulations. As he gets back into the swing of routine, Norris admitted he would have liked a long winter break after winning the title. “I’m excited for everything,” he said. “I wish I had one more month to lay back and enjoy everything, take everything in. “It was a few weeks off. It didn't even feel like a month off. It was a few weeks off of just trying to realise what had happened last year. “It had become a reality, my dream. I'm still, even now, trying to just accept it and realise that it's happened.” However, Norris asserted he is focused on the season ahead as he looks to become only the third McLaren driver to successfully defend their title . “But at the same time, it’s back to work and now we've got to try and do it all over again,” he said. “So it makes me happy, it gives me good confidence coming into this season. But it's so different, such a big challenge with all the regulations, all the changes this year. “But I feel good. I'm happy I've accomplished something huge in my life.”

2026-01-30T06:30:00+01:00 2026-01-31T11:40:59+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-f1-engine-surprise-as-audi-experience-early-problems Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Early data from pre-season testing has delivered an unexpected twist in the battle between Formula 1's newest power unit manufacturers. Whilst these findings remain preliminary and subject to change across the remaining test sessions, the initial comparison between Audi and Red Bull Powertrains (RBPT) has defied expectations in several key areas. Many observers anticipated RBPT, developed in partnership with Ford, would encounter the most significant challenges during these crucial test runs. That prediction has proved wide of the mark. Instead, it is Audi facing the steeper learning curve, grappling with more teething troubles than their newly-established counterpart.  The irony is striking: a manufacturer entering F1 for the first time experiencing greater uncertainty than RBPT, despite the latter being an entirely fresh technical operation assembled over just two years. The 50/50 power unit split challenge Both manufacturers face the monumental task of mastering the sport's revolutionary power architecture.  The equal split between electrical and internal combustion represents uncharted territory for everyone, with energy recovery, deployment strategies, and active aerodynamics calibration all requiring extensive refinement before Melbourne. What has caught many by surprise is how this challenge has played out differently for each manufacturer. Audi's struggles appear more pronounced than anticipated for a company with extensive electrified motorsport experience. However, the fundamental truth is that F1's hybrid systems bear little resemblance to powertrains used elsewhere, including the World Endurance Championship. RBPT's apparent advantage stems from a crucial factor: personnel expertise. The operation has drawn more extensively from manufacturers already embedded within Formula 1, particularly those with experience installing and homologating Honda-built units. This insider knowledge appears to have smoothed their debut significantly. Still early days These initial findings, whilst intriguing, should not prompt premature judgements about either manufacturer's ultimate competitiveness or reliability prospects. The primary purpose of these closed-door sessions is precisely to identify and resolve system functionality issues, particularly at power unit level. Both Audi and RBPT are following the established playbook for new entrants. Formula 1's position as motorsport's technological pinnacle means surprises are inevitable. The current signs surrounding RBPT's development certainly appear encouraging, though the season ahead will provide the definitive verdict on both manufacturers' preparations.

2026-01-29T22:19:00+01:00 2026-01-29T22:19:40+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/formula-e-handed-constructive-criticism-over-questionable-miami-layout Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Antonio Félix da Costa has questioned the shortness of the layout at the Miami International Autodrome for this weekend’s Miami E-Prix, noting that he will "constructively criticise" it. Formula E has moved from Homestead–Miami Speedway to the Miami International Autodrome for its race in the city, but is using the national configuration. It is a near-identical layout to what was used for last year’s celebrity-based EVO Sessions event; however, modifications to the final sector have made this weekend’s track shorter. As a result, this weekend could see lap times of around 55 seconds, something da Costa joked he had not experienced since “I was in go-karts”. Only a select number of drivers were present at the EVO Sessions event at Hard Rock Stadium last year, and while da Costa was not one of them, he remains surprised by the circuit’s length. Asked if the track is too short, da Costa told RacingNews365 : "I mean, I wasn’t here for the EVO sessions, but the short answer to your question is that it should be longer. "I’m not the FIA, I’m not Formula E, and I’m not involved in those governing bodies when it comes to deciding track layouts. But I hope there must be a reason for the track to be that short, even though I don’t know it, and I would like to see it a little longer." With it not being a double-header, Pit Boost will not be in operation this weekend; however, if it were, lapped cars would likely have become a major talking point. Whether the layout is the right one for Formula E will only be discovered after the race, with da Costa aware that if it does go wrong, the championship is quick to own up to its mistakes. "Yeah, with Pit Boost, you would have gone a lap down," he added. "I actually didn’t even think about that. I think everybody here – in terms of the FIA, Formula E teams and drivers – is very humble about whether we could have done better. "I’m sure that by Monday we’ll know, and we’ll change it for next year. We’re not here to criticise; we’re here to maybe constructively criticise, yes, and just help everybody – the series, the teams, the drivers – to create a better product for the fans. We’ll see how this weekend goes, and we’ll make it better for next year."

2026-01-29T22:00:00+01:00 2026-01-29T22:23:54+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-suffer-day-ending-problem-as-aston-martin-finally-hit-the-track-racingnews365-review Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Oscar Piastri was allowed to put McLaren's 2026 F1 challenger through its paces on Thursday after champion Lando Norris had the honour of driving the MCL40 for the first time a day earlier. After a reasonably productive morning with 48 laps at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya, the Australian failed to make it out on track in the afternoon. READ MORE: McLaren confirm problem for Oscar Piastri Radical Aston Martin breaks cover as revolutionary design unveiled The anticipation surrounding Aston Martin's AMR26 reached its crescendo in Barcelona this afternoon as Lance Stroll finally brought the eagerly-awaited machine to life on circuit, with Fernando Alonso scheduled to take over driving duties tomorrow.  The extended wait has proven thoroughly worthwhile. READ MORE: Radical Aston Martin breaks cover as revolutionary design unveiled Red Bull receives spare parts in major Max Verstappen boost Red Bull has received the spare parts it needs to repair the RB22 for Max Verstappen to drive on Friday, RacingNews365 can confirm. The Milton Keynes-based outfit’s participation on the final day of the Barcelona test had been in doubt following Isack Hadjar’s heavy crash at the final corner on Tuesday afternoon. READ MORE: Red Bull receives spare parts in major Max Verstappen boost Mercedes avoid 'major issues' as George Russell hails shakedown test George Russell has hailed the progress made by Mercedes across the Barcelona shakedown test, confirming that no "major issues" were experienced. Thursday marked the end of Mercedes’ running at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, having also run on Monday and Wednesday. READ MORE: Mercedes avoid 'major issues' as George Russell hails shakedown test Lewis Hamilton details first Ferrari dry running after 'miserable' F1 testing start Lewis Hamilton has detailed his first dry running in Ferrari's 2026 F1 car, following a "miserable" start in the wet on Tuesday. Hamilton's first track action at the five-day Barcelona test came on Tuesday afternoon in wet conditions, before finally getting to drive the SF-26 in the dry on Thursday morning. READ MORE: Lewis Hamilton details first Ferrari dry running after 'miserable' F1 testing start 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 4 results George Russell underlined Mercedes' superiority in pre-season testing in Barcelona by posting the quickest time of the week so far. Team-mate Kimi Antonelli set the benchmark in the morning session, with a lap of 1:17.081s proving to be the best of the 90 he clocked as Mercedes also again racked up the laps. READ MORE: 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 4 results

2026-01-29T21:00:00+01:00 2026-01-29T21:45:24+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/liam-lawson-outlines-deep-unknown-after-successful-racing-bulls-test Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Liam Lawson has acknowledged the F1 pecking order remains an “unknown” and does not expect any clues in the near future. Lawson had his last appearance at the Barcelona shakedown test on Thursday as Racing Bulls endured its third and final day of on-track action. The New Zealander tallied 64 laps during the morning session before team-mate Arvid Lindblad jumped behind the wheel in the afternoon. Having concluded his own programme, Lawson asserted the team has made strong steps forward across the three days. “We just keep learning,” Lawson said. “We are obviously making big gains but so is everybody else. “Very, very different cars but in a much better place than we were on Monday, which is the main thing. “We just need to keep learning and improving the car.” Teams are using the shakedown to gather initial data on their new cars, which have been built under a new set of technical regulations. As a result, Lawson does not expect the pecking order to become clear for some time. “In terms of mileage, we have honestly had a pretty strong test in term of reliability, so that’s been a box ticked,” he said. “In terms of expectations, it’s very hard [to know], we don’t know where anybody else is. “That will still be unknown for a while, but the main thing is we’re getting the laps down that we want to and learning what we need to about our car.”

2026-01-29T20:30:00+01:00 2026-02-01T07:07:25+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/radical-aston-martin-breaks-cover-as-revolutionary-design-unveiled Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The anticipation surrounding Aston Martin's AMR26 reached its crescendo in Barcelona this afternoon as Lance Stroll finally brought the eagerly-awaited machine to life on circuit, with Fernando Alonso scheduled to take over driving duties tomorrow. The extended wait has proven thoroughly worthwhile. As RN365 had previously reported, the car's belated track debut stemmed from specific inconsistencies that team principal Adrian Newey identified during the summer between simulator readings and wind tunnel data, raising concerns about the reliability of the processed information.  However, the reality behind the programme's delayed schedule, which has become something of a Newey hallmark, lay primarily in securing final approval for an aerodynamic package that, as evidenced by the initial photographs released by Aston Martin this afternoon, represents a radical departure from every rival design. The AMR26 systematically rejects the conventional design philosophies adopted across the grid, beginning with its distinctive wide-section nose cone. The component's lower profile creates an unmistakably seagull-like appearance, linking to the front wing through compact pylons. Meanwhile, the sidepods suggest that the recent trend towards letterbox-style air inlets may be reaching its conclusion. On Aston Martin's latest creation, the inlets function essentially as upward-facing periscopes, incorporating a funnel-shaped opening accompanied by a tray positioned along the inlet's lower edge. The sidepods themselves are not merely highly inclined in profile but also exceptionally short and narrow, emphasising an extreme Coke-bottle philosophy. This approach explains the implementation of substantial, forward-positioned vents on the engine cover, situated well clear of the car's rear section. The power unit air intake adopts a triangular configuration that mirrors last year's Ferrari concept, though it equally resembles the current iteration through the twin winglets positioned on either side. A substantial shark fin crowns the engine cover, extending almost to the rear bodywork's limit. The rear section itself is remarkably narrow and, in its lower portion, effectively creates a second skin around the gearbox components. Both front and rear suspension systems utilise push-rod layouts, incorporating multi-link configurations. Particularly noteworthy is the upper wishbone positioning, which demonstrates how the rear arm, running almost horizontally, sits considerably higher than the front arm's pick-up point, promoting pronounced anti-squat characteristics. Initial analysis of these first images reveals countless original and concealed solutions throughout the car, fully justifying the extended development period required for its creation. Newey has once again delivered on innovation and originality. However, regarding outright performance capabilities, definitive answers must await the forthcoming Bahrain tests at minimum.

2026-01-29T20:00:00+01:00 2026-01-29T22:25:36+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mercedes-avoid-major-issues-as-george-russell-hails-shakedown-test Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com George Russell has hailed the progress made by Mercedes across the Barcelona shakedown test, confirming that no "major issues" were experienced. Thursday marked the end of Mercedes’ running at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, having also run on Monday and Wednesday. The Silver Arrows have looked strong throughout the week, gathering significant mileage as well as setting some very quick lap times. Kimi Antonelli drove for Mercedes on Thursday morning before handing the W17 over to Russell in the afternoon. Russell completed 77 laps and set a 1:16.455 to end the fourth day as the fastest driver, while Antonelli was quickest in the morning session. In total, the Brackley-based outfit has completed 500 laps, providing a huge amount of data to analyse ahead of the two tests in Bahrain. "It's been another decent day and overall, a positive shakedown for us here in Barcelona," said Russell.  "The car feels nice to drive but more importantly, we've completed plenty of mileage and had no major issues. The minor issues we've come across we've been able to resolve which is the purpose of such running. "The car is working well but we know that it is not about the car working well, it's about how fast it can go. We don't have any indication of that yet so we will have to wait until Bahrain until we get any indications of the relative pecking order. It's very early days but we can be pleased with this initial foundation we have put in place. "It's an exciting time for our sport with possibly one of the most impactful regulations changes we've seen. It's an honour to be representing Mercedes, particularly as we mark the 140th anniversary of Carl Benz's invention of the motor car today.  "It's quite apt to be behind-the-wheel of such an innovative machine today; I am excited to continue our journey towards the season and look ahead to going racing."

2026-01-29T19:30:00+01:00 2026-01-29T21:35:50+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-receives-spare-parts-in-major-max-verstappen-boost Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull has received the spare parts it needs to repair the RB22 for Max Verstappen to drive on Friday, RacingNews365 can confirm. The Milton Keynes-based outfit’s participation on the final day of the Barcelona test had been in doubt following Isack Hadjar’s heavy crash at the final corner on Tuesday afternoon. Hadjar’s accident caused significant rear damage to the RB22, leading Red Bull to skip running on both Wednesday and Thursday. Only Verstappen has track time remaining within the Red Bull camp, with the four-time world champion still permitted to complete a full day of running. Verstappen’s chances of driving on Friday at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya have improved following the arrival of the spare parts, although Red Bull will not make a final decision on whether to run until Friday morning. So far, Verstappen has completed just 27 laps during the test, all of which were gathered on Tuesday morning in what remains his only track action of the week.

2026-01-29T19:00:00+01:00 2026-01-29T21:35:20+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/oscar-piastri-confirms-mclaren-working-hard-on-fix-to-avoid-friday-f1-test-no-show Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Oscar Piastri has confirmed that McLaren is "working hard" to fix a fuel system issue that triggered an early end to running on Thursday, in order to avoid missing the final day. Piastri was unable to run in the afternoon on Thursday at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya due to the problem, restricting him to just 48 laps in the morning session. It represented a setback for the Australian driver’s preparation ahead of the new F1 season, with both he and the team lacking significant mileage. The Woking-based outfit has only the final day of the test remaining in Barcelona, putting pressure on McLaren to complete an overnight fix to the issue. According to Piastri, despite the limited running, McLaren has already identified areas it can improve, something it hopes to build on during the final day. "It was nice to be back out today, especially in the new car," said Piastri. "There’s a lot of challenges this year up and down the grid, so it was good to get stuck in.  "We had a fuel system issue, which cut our day short, but the team’s working hard to get that fixed and back out tomorrow. "These cars are completely different to what we’ve had the last few years. That’s part of what this test is about. We’ve already identified a few things that we can try to improve on the car to make it feel a bit nicer.  "We have one more day of running tomorrow. We’ll continue to get used to the car and get a good read on how different things feel. Then we’ll find a good direction to make the car quicker and feel nicer."

2026-01-29T18:15:00+01:00 2026-01-30T13:19:28+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-4-results Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com George Russell underlined Mercedes' superiority in pre-season testing in Barcelona by posting the quickest time of the week so far. Team-mate Kimi Antonelli set the benchmark in the morning session, with a lap of 1:17.081s proving to be the best of the 90 he clocked as Mercedes also again racked up the laps. Taking over the W17 in the afternoon, Russell became the first driver to dip into the 1:16s, culminating in a 1:16.445s. The Briton also churned out a further 77 laps for Mercedes. Over the course of their three days on track this week, with Thursday the last of their permitted allocation, the team has amassed a staggering 499 laps. Oscar Piastri was fourth quickest in his McLaren, almost 1.8 seconds behind Russell. Unfortunately for the Australian, all his running was confined to the morning session due to the team encountering a fuel system issue in the afternoon. Ferrari, meanwhile, enjoyed a day of dry-weather running, given the rain they encountered on Tuesday. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton combined for 174 laps, with the duo both in the 1:18s. And Aston Martin finally made it out on track, with Lance Stroll completing four highly exploratory laps. See the full results from Day 4 below!   2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 4 Results

2026-01-29T18:08:00+01:00 2026-01-30T16:54:50+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-confirms-problem-with-car-piastri Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Oscar Piastri was allowed to put McLaren's 2026 F1 challenger through its paces on Thursday after champion Lando Norris had the honour of driving the MCL40 for the first time a day earlier. After a reasonably productive morning with 48 laps at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya, the Australian failed to make it out on track in the afternoon. Unfortunately for McLaren and Piastri, RacingNews365 can confirm the team discovered an issue with the fuel system. It means over its two days of testing so far, McLaren has completed 124 laps. It has one final day of running to add to its tally on Friday, with both Norris and Piastri splitting duties with half a day apiece.

2026-01-29T17:15:00+01:00 2026-01-29T21:34:51+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lewis-hamilton-details-first-ferrari-dry-running-after-miserable-f1-testing-start Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lewis Hamilton has detailed his first dry running in Ferrari's 2026 F1 car, following a "miserable" start in the wet on Tuesday. Hamilton's first track action at the five-day Barcelona test came on Tuesday afternoon in wet conditions, before finally getting to drive the SF-26 in the dry on Thursday morning. The seven-time world champion completed 87 laps and was 1.573s adrift of Kimi Antonelli, who was the quickest driver during the morning session. It marked further steady progress for Hamilton and Ferrari, who ran the C1 and C2 compounds. However, due to cool track temperatures, generating heat and finding grip proved a challenge, resulting in a harmless spin. Despite the conditions, Hamilton and Ferrari completed their programme, marking another step in the right direction. "It was nice to get out in the dry and do some running, because obviously our first day was in miserable wet weather," Hamilton said on Thursday afternoon. "And yeah, it was good to get out and kind of see—obviously, I drove at Fiorano for just one or two laps, I think—just to get a feel for the car. "So it was great to be able to get some running and understand the tyres. We ran the C2 and the C1. It’s so cold that the tyres aren’t really working all that well. "But we got through our programme and gained a bit of an understanding of where the car is at and where we need to improve."

2026-01-29T16:26:00+01:00 2026-01-29T18:47:36+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/cadillac-announce-times-square-countdown-box-ahead-of-true-identity-f1-reveal Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Cadillac has ramped up the hype surrounding the reveal of its maiden F1 livery for this season. The team has already spent millions of dollars on a prime-time advertising slot during the Super Bowl on February 9 to take the wraps off its car for this season and show its true identity after running a 'camo-livery' for this week's private test in Barcelona. Now the team has announced the 'Cadillac Countdown', which it claims has been "designed to build anticipation in the lead-up to the team’s inaugural livery" during the Super Bowl between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks. The Cadillac Countdown Box, described as a "striking chrome-clad structure" will be visible in Times Square from Friday, February 6, to Monday, February 9, and will contain a replica team car with its inaugural livery. The box will boast a frosted glass exterior revealing only silhouettes and motion inside, and feature a large-format digital countdown clock signalling the imminent livery reveal. The team states that "over the course of Super Bowl weekend, the Countdown Box will take on many forms, shifting visual modes and content as the clock winds down". Immediately following the conclusion of the Super Bowl, the frosted glass will thaw to reveal a full look at the car and livery, and will be on display into the following day. Cadillac CEO Dan Towriss said: "The unveiling of a livery in Formula 1 is an important moment as it is a reflection of the team’s identity. "The reveal at the Super Bowl and in Times Square represents both a launch moment and an invitation for fans to join in our journey. "The Super Bowl spot will take the team into millions of homes, while the Cadillac Countdown will give a front-row view in one of the busiest areas in the US."

2026-01-29T15:55:00+01:00 2026-01-29T18:47:28+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/williams-f1-boss-addresses-overweight-2026-car-speculation Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Williams team principal James Vowles has insisted he has no idea if the squad's car for the upcoming season is overweight. Speculation has been rife in recent weeks over Williams' challenger, which is not present at the ongoing Barcelona shakedown event. RacingNews365 understands the team failed to pass the FIA crash tests in the build-up to the new season, with the area of concern surrounding the front nose box. Vowles has since declared that the crash tests have been cleared and is on course to take to the track at the Bahrain pre-season test next month. However, he downplayed the speculation over the car's weight, insisting even the Williams team does not know the true figure. “There's no knowledge of the weight until we get to Bahrain in terms of understanding where it is,” Vowles told select media including RacingNews365 . “That's not avoiding the question, but you need to get all the sensor packs off to actually understand where we are. “It’s a very aggressive weight target, and if we are over, anything you see out there, there's not a single person that would truly know it. It's impossible to know it. “You need the car together without sensors in the right form, and that doesn't exist today. “If we end up being over the weight target, from that point on, it'll be an aggressive program to get it off. “But I think right now, anything that you're seeing, the murmurings in the media are murmurings. “I’ll come out and explain to everyone at the point where we know that.” RacingNews365 pushed the subject further with Vowles, expressing that the team must have some idea as to a ballpark figure or run the risk of having a car that far reaches beyond a competitive level. To that, Vowles replied: “What I'm really indicating to you is that the numbers we're talking about are probably small enough that I need to see the car weighed in order for me to be able to assess where we are. “So it's not miles over to that point. I guess that helps you in that regard.”

2026-01-29T15:05:00+01:00 2026-01-29T18:47:19+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/ferrari-dealt-negative-verdict-over-f1-livery-shake-up Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Last week, Ferrari unveiled its F1 livery for the new season with a notable dash of white added to the traditional red design. The car will once again be driven by Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc as the Italian squad goes in search of ending its championship drought. Ferrari last tasted title success in 2008 when it won the constructors' title, but success has been hard to come by in recent years. But at the start of a new era for the sport, Ferrari is hopeful it can immediately launch itself into the fight at the front. Amid the launch season fever, RacingNews365 asked you, the fans, if you are a fan of the new Ferrari livery. A majority of responses declared they did not like it, believing it features too much white and not enough of Ferrari's iconic red livery. See the full poll result below! Do you like the striking new 2026 Ferrari F1 livery?

2026-01-29T14:15:00+01:00 2026-01-29T16:18:58+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-exotic-funky-bits-catching-the-eye-despite-loss-of-great-mind Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull is still delivering what has been described as "exotic" and "funky bits" on its RB22 this season, despite the fact that Adrian Newey is no longer with the team. With technical director Pierre Waché now firmly in charge of the programme following Newey's departure to Aston Martin, Red Bull appeared to initially struggle last year, leading to inconsistent results for four-time F1 champion Max Verstappen. It was not until after the summer break that Waché and his team managed to get on top of the RB21's issues, sparking a stunning championship charge from Verstappen that saw him win six of the final nine races and fall just two points shy of clinching five titles in a row. Although the RB22 has been a long time in the making, given the wide-sweeping changes to the regulations, the confidence gained from the performance late last year will have been inspirational in the design of this year's challenger. That can be seen from the concepts witnessed on the car in testing so far . Former F1 driver Karun Chandhok has conceded to being "fascinated by the Red Bull story", in particular as "the architects of the current technical situation, in terms of being their own engine manufacturer, are gone. That was a decision made by Adrian Newey, Christian Horner and Helmut Marko. All gone!" Chandhok is pleased, however, to see that Waché has continued the Red Bull tradition of trying to be innovative. "So now, Laurent Mekies and Ben Hodgkinson have had to pick up the reins and run with it," added Chandhok, speaking on Sky Sports F1 . "And this is a whole new era for Pierre Waché. He doesn't have the big halo of the great mind of Adrian Newey above him. He's in charge of it, and the buck stops with him. "You have to say, the second half of last year, they would have breathed a sigh of relief, because after a shaky 12 months, they got back on track. "That would have given them confidence to do exotic things this year, because it means their correlation is back on track, and what they're seeing on the CFD and in the wind tunnel is translating to on-track performance, which they started to get in the second half of the year. "They didn't have that, really, from the middle of '24. So I'm pleased to see they're going out on a limb and still doing funky bits on the car."

2026-01-29T13:25:00+01:00 2026-01-29T21:34:08+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-4-morning-results Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mercedes has produced another productive morning of running in Barcelona, with Kimi Antonelli tallying almost 90 laps so far. The Italian has also set the fastest lap time of the test with a 1:17.081. Lewis Hamilton was back in action for Ferrari and clocked up almost 90 laps across the opening hours. He trailed Oscar Piastri in the McLaren, but was ahead of Liam Lawson and Sergio Perez. Just five cars ventured onto the track during the session. Aston Martin is expected to join the action later today with Lance Stroll. See the results from the morning below! 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 4 Morning Results

2026-01-29T12:55:00+01:00 2026-01-29T16:18:49+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-exploring-envelope-in-barcelona-after-avoiding-f1-nasties Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com McLaren chief designer Rob Marshall has asserted the team is treating the Barcelona test as a true shakedown and is not focusing on extracting pace from the MCL40 challenger. The Woking-based squad made its on-track debut with the car on Wednesday with reigning champion Lando Norris behind the wheel. Norris tallied 76 laps across the day as McLaren got its first eye in on its new car, which it hopes can repeat its double title success from 2025. Marshall asserted it was a smooth day for the team as no unexpected difficulties arose from the outing. "The car ran pretty well today, we're quite happy with it, no nasties, no really scary things went wrong," he said.  "There are obviously little gremlins here and there but we ironed those out during the day.” Norris' team-mate Oscar Piastri jumped behind the wheel on Thursday as he got his first experience of the new car. However, there is little to no focus on getting the car in a competitive window during the days ahead, which instead is set to be the focus at the Bahrain test next month. "We really treat this week as a shakedown, so this is for us to get the car reliable, running, and make sure it'll run in all the conditions we want it to run in,” he said. “We're going all the way around the envelope trying every single bit we can and then when we get to Bahrain we'll try and dial the car in a bit better.  “The conditions here are so cold that doing representative lap times is obviously going to be very difficult.”

2026-01-29T12:05:00+01:00 2026-01-29T14:43:30+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/audi-eyeing-fundamentals-after-early-barcelona-test-concerns Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Audi technical director James Key has asserted the team is focused on getting its fundamentals in shape before the Barcelona shakedown comes to a close. The German manufacturer made its on-track debut on Monday at the test but was limited to less than 30 laps due to a mechanical concern. Audi returned to the circuit on Wednesday but Nico Hulkenberg ground to a halt at the start of his run before returning later on to rack up 68 laps. Key asserted Audi is placing no focus on lap times as he asserted gathering data with the new power unit is its primary point of concentration. “This test is a prove-out test of a very new car for everyone, but particularly for us, with a very new power unit as well,” he said. “This is all about reliability and getting the fundamentals figured out. “On that basis, although we had a little bit of delay - or quite a bit of delay in the end on the first day, for various reasons, which are all fixable. “But this is why we test, we don't want to be discovering this in Melbourne. [Wednesday] has shown some better progress.” Key downplayed the significance of Audi's second mechanical issue on Wednesday, insisting it was nothing more than a standard hydraulic leak. “So a little delay [in the] morning was a hydraulic leak, a real basic thing,” he said. “In the afternoon, we got back on track and we've done a lot of laps, so a step forward.”

2026-01-29T11:15:00+01:00 2026-01-29T14:43:34+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-commended-by-f1-rival-that-cant-be-underestimated Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Williams F1 boss James Vowles has commended rivals Red Bull for producing its own power unit for the sport's new era. Red Bull declared its intention to construct its own engine for the 2026 season several years ago after Honda announced its exit from the grid. The power unit has been built in collaboration with Ford and tallied almost 180 laps across the opening two days at the Barcelona shakedown. The test event is not being attended by Williams, who is on schedule to be present in Bahrain for the next test in two weeks. Despite not having a car on the track, Vowles asserted the Grove-based squad is keeping tuned into what is happening. “Yes, I have boots on the ground and individuals there,” Vowles told select media including RacingNews365 . “It won't be a surprise to any of you, but I actually think we're set up for a good championship. “I think Mercedes is doing well out of the box, running to the timetable they said they would, to the amount of mileage they said they would. “It’s very impressive from the get-go.” Mercedes tallied impressive mileage on Monday and Wednesday in Barcelona, signalling a strong start to the new year for the Brackley-based squad. But with a brand-new Red Bull power unit hitting the track without any major mechanical hiccups, Vowles tipped his hat to the achievement. “Equally, Red Bull, given they produced a power unit from scratch, that really cannot be underestimated. “They did a brilliant job in the number of laps they completed. Finally there’s Ferrari, which is exactly the same thing, again. “Pretty impressive from the get-go, but your times in Barcelona are going to be largely irrelevant. It's really only in Bahrain that you'll start to see it.”

2026-01-29T10:25:00+01:00 2026-01-29T14:43:47+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mercedes-reveal-impressive-scale-of-encouraging-f1-2026-start Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mercedes has reached all of its objectives from the Barcelona shakedown after just two days of running. The Brackley-based squad enjoyed an encouraging opening day of on-track action on Monday as George Russell and Kimi Antonelli tallied up 151 laps between them. Mercedes returned to the track on Wednesday for their second of three allowed days and clocked another 183 laps - taking its total count for the week up to 334. It has not been bogged down by any major reliability concerns, which has allowed it to carry out its scheduled programme largely uninterrupted. “We’re pretty pleased with [Wednesday], obviously two days done out of the three,” trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin said. “We’ve more or less ticked all our objectives from the first and the second [day]. “So really pleased with how the car has gone. We managed to do over two race distances [on Wednesday] with it. “Both drivers feeling that now - but the car was going strong at the end. So that was really encouraging.” Other teams have run into various issues, causing red flags after being forced to stop on the track. Shovlin suggested the disruptions from other teams are the biggest obstacles Mercedes is navigating to get through its programme. “Mileage, we are a bit ahead of where we'd hoped to be, so that's good,” he said. “Normally you’d expect to have a few teething problems, the odd reliability thing that costs you track time. “The car worked faultlessly. We're actually losing more track time from other people breaking down and causing red flags than for anything on our side. “In terms of data gathered, we're getting there, but as all the electrical systems are new, there's still quite a few issues that we're bottoming out with collecting the data and making sure everything is as accurate as we normally have it. “But as I said, we had a long list of objectives and if anything, we’re slightly ahead of where we expected to be on day two.”

2026-01-29T09:35:00+01:00 2026-01-29T14:43:50+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-skip-barcelona-test-day-4-as-wait-for-spare-parts-continues Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull will not take to the Barcelona track on Thursday as it waits for spare parts to arrive at the circuit. The Milton Keynes-based squad used two out of its three test days to collect on Monday and Tuesday earlier this week. However, its run on Tuesday ended abruptly when Isack Hadjar slid off the circuit and sustained damage against the barrier. Red Bull confirmed it would not run on Wednesday as it continued to assess the car, and RacingNews365 now understands it will also skip Thursday. This is due to the fact it is still waiting for spare parts to arrive at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The parts are set to arrive at the track later in the day, which will allow Red Bull to complete the repair job. It is then expected that Red Bull will return to the circuit on Friday - a situation the team is optimistic will play out. Aside from Hadjar's crash, Red Bull clocked up respectable mileage across the opening two days as it collected data on its brand-new power unit.

2026-01-29T09:00:00+01:00 2026-01-29T19:31:16+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/live-2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-4 Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The penultimate F1 shakedown event takes place today at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Mercedes enjoyed another strong day on Wednesday as the Brackley-based squad clocked almost 200 laps between both of its drivers. Not only did it boast the most mileage, Kimi Antonelli and George Russell ended the day in first and second place, respectively. Just two more days remain for the teams to collect data ahead of the next pre-season test in Bahrain. For some squads, today could mark the final day of on-track action if they opt to run. We will provide you with all of the happenings we can during the day of running, which you can follow in the live updates below!

2026-01-29T08:10:00+01:00 2026-01-29T16:18:27+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lando-norris-highlights-pretty-different-feeling-with-powerful-mclaren Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lando Norris described his latest McLaren as feeling "pretty different", although there was no disguising the fact that it still felt "powerful", and "like a Formula 1" car. After two days of waiting due to delays in the build of the MCL40, Norris finally appeared at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya on the third of the five days of private pre-season testing. Following the normal system checks over the opening laps, F1's latest champion went on to complete a respectable 76 laps, with his best a 1:18.307s, just under a second behind the leading lap of the week to date from Mercedes' George Russell. For Norris, like every driver this week behind the wheel of F1's latest iteration of car, there is a natural acclimatisation process to go through in the wake of the biggest overhaul in the sport's history, in particular with the power unit that is now run via a 50-50 split of combustion and electrical energy. Norris cited the fact the car did feel "pretty different", albeit "not a huge step". Assessing the differences he experienced, the British driver added: "It's a bit of a step slower in terms of cornering speeds. "In terms of acceleration and straight-line speed, it probably feels quicker than it did last year. You get to 340, 350 [kph] quite a bit quicker than we did in previous years. "It's a bit more of a challenge in many places, which is a good thing, but then you have a bit more to understand, from the battery, the power unit. All of those things are, in some ways, more complicated and just different. "And whenever something's different, it always takes a bit of time to figure out the best way to look at it, to manage it, to use it, but that's what these days are for." Norris was at least happy that the team was able "to get a good understanding", but naturally aware it is the first step on a long testing road that heads to Bahrain for six days in February following the conclusion of this week's running in Barcelona. "This is still going to take a while," said Norris. "The conditions here are quite different to what they're going to be in Bahrain, what they're going to be in Melbourne. "It's just trying to gather as much information, in every condition possible, whether it's going to rain in the next couple of days or be dry or whatever, the more laps we can do, the better. "So yeah, nice to be back. Different feelings, of course. It still feels like a McLaren, it still feels powerful, it still feels like a Formula 1 car, which is the most important thing."

2026-01-29T07:20:00+01:00 2026-01-29T14:44:06+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lewis-hamilton-outlines-next-ferrari-target-after-first-f1-2026-experience Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lewis Hamilton has highlighted his eagerness to drive the 2026 Ferrari car in dry conditions after his on-track debut on Tuesday. Ferrari split its duties between Charles Leclerc and Hamilton when it kick-started its shakedown from Barcelona. While Leclerc managed to get some mileage under his belt in dry conditions, the track was wet when Hamilton took over in the afternoon. The Italian squad didn't take to the circuit on Wednesday, meaning it is likely to be present at the track on Thursday and Friday to use up the last of its allowed days. When asked what is on his checklist for the rest of the week, Hamilton said: “I’m hoping to experience the car in the dry and just understanding balance, understanding the new SM [Straight-Line Mode] that we have and how to utilise it, how you can feel it. “I have not driven it in the dry, so I don’t really have a feeling for it. We drove it in the wet, which is only the front part.” The major regulation change this year includes significant changes to the power unit with an increase in the output of the battery. Having already experienced the difference in the simulator, Hamilton is eager to learn more about utilising the deployment in the coming days. “And then just understanding the deployment,” he added. “Deployment is going to be crucial, and understanding how to utilise the battery throughout the lap and recharging - all that kind of stuff. “We’ve done a huge amount of work. Everyone has done a huge amount of work on the simulator. “So it’s not like it’s 100% brand new for us, like we but we still have to go through our sessions and through the data to try and optimise it.”

2026-01-29T06:30:00+01:00 2026-01-29T14:44:14+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-eager-to-build-on-vital-first-moment-after-crash-setback Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has hailed the spirit inside the team as it commences a new era. The Milton Keynes-based squad's Barcelona shakedown event took a knock on Tuesday when Isack Hadjar collided with the barrier late in the day. Up to that point, Red Bull had been enjoying a positive test with no major issues seemingly appearing with its new power unit. Red Bull has built its own engine for the first time this year, leaving Mekies proud of the work that has gone into making the situation possible. “In terms of what we were expecting from the power unit on these first couple of days, I can only repeat how proud we are of everybody back at base to have managed to give us something that we could actually run with,” he said. “Of course, it's very early days and nothing is perfect but we could start to learn and work as one team. “That was a huge satisfaction. It doesn't change the size of the journey in front of us, but certainly it's the first moment that everybody in Milton Keynes should be proud of.” Red Bull has not yet confirmed when it will return to the track, but has to choose between today [Thu] and Friday as it has just one day of running remaining this week. Despite the setback of the crash, Mekies asserted the team is operating with a positive attitude as it prepares for the new season. “So early days, but great energy in the team,” he said. “Great spirits between Max, Isack and the whole team. “We just can't wait to have the next possibility to run. It's something we are trying to analyse now and hopefully we get some answers a bit later on.”

2026-01-28T22:00:00+01:00 2026-01-29T14:44:45+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lewis-hamilton-ferrari-verdict-delivered-as-red-bull-extreme-design-explored-racingnews365-review Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lewis Hamilton cut a positive figure after his initial experience behind the wheel of Ferrari 's new F1 challenger on Tuesday. Read more: Lewis Hamilton delivers early Ferrari verdict after first 2026 laps Red Bull extreme design reveals radical 2026 F1 approach Red Bull 's absence from Wednesday's pre-season test running provided a rare opportunity to scrutinise the RB22's aerodynamic philosophy, highlighting that the Milton Keynes-based squad has again pushed boundaries with its unconventional approach. Read more: Red Bull extreme design reveals radical 2026 F1 approach George Russell writes off 'little-to-nothing' high as Mercedes pound out the miles George Russell dismissed as "little or nothing" to be read into Mercedes table-topping times on a day when he and Kimi Antonelli delivered another astonishing lap count. Read more: George Russell writes off 'little-to-nothing' high as Mercedes pound out the miles Lando Norris reveals 'pressure on' as 'surreal' McLaren situation hits home on F1 return Lando Norris was effectively left pinching himself in witnessing the "crazy" and "surreal" situation of seeing the No.1 on his car as he returned to F1 as the sport's champion. Read more: Lando Norris reveals 'pressure on' as 'surreal' McLaren situation hits home on F1 return Williams make striking Barcelona test revelation after 'incredibly painful decision' James Vowles has revealed Williams could have taken part in this week's pre-season test in Barcelona, but were ultimately forced to make a decision he has described as "incredibly painful". Read more: Williams make striking Barcelona test revelation after 'incredibly painful decision' Red Bull boss acknowledges power unit 'tension' as key F1 milestone reached Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has admitted the team was feeling “tension” as it awaited the first laps with its new power unit. Read more: Red Bull boss acknowledges power unit 'tension' as key F1 milestone reached

2026-01-28T21:00:00+01:00 2026-01-28T21:04:20+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/cadillac-feeling-emotional-after-taking-big-step-with-f1-paddock-arrival Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Cadillac team principal Graeme Lowdon insisted it was acceptable for the outfit to "feel the emotion" of finally entering the F1 paddock, in what is the next "big step" for the American outfit. This week's five-day test in Barcelona has represented Cadillac's first time in the F1 paddock as a team on the grid, with both Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez having driven on Monday. Bottas drove Cadillac's 2026 car on Monday morning, before Perez took over for the first afternoon session of the week. Both drivers confirmed that issues were experienced, something Cadillac is not concerned about and deems perfectly natural for a brand-new F1 team. Simply making Barcelona represents an extraordinary achievement, having only received the green light to become the 11th outfit in the paddock in the opening months of last year. In less than 12 months, Cadillac has gone from not even being an F1 team to successfully running in the first pre-season test, something Lowdon is immensely proud of. Discussing Cadillac officially being in the F1 paddock, Lowdon told F1TV : "Yeah, it is a big step, and it's okay to allow ourselves a tiny little bit of time to feel the emotion. But I think the overriding feeling is that it feels like business as usual, as a proper Formula 1 team. "And we're getting stuck into the same work that everybody else is. And, you know, huge, huge, huge respect to everybody in the team. "I'm so lucky to be in this situation where I can work with so many really talented people, both here at the track, back at Silverstone, back in Indianapolis, and in Charlotte as well. "And it's a great feeling to be really feeling as if we're on our way now."

2026-01-28T20:30:00+01:00 2026-01-29T08:02:32+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lando-norris-reveals-pressure-on-as-surreal-mclaren-situation-hits-home-on-f1-return Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lando Norris was effectively left pinching himself in witnessing the "crazy" and "surreal" situation of seeing the No.1 on his car as he returned to F1 as the sport's champion. Just over seven weeks after clinching his maiden title by just two points over Red Bull's four-time champion Max Verstappen, Norris drove out of the McLaren garage at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya sporting the highly prized number. It was a case of better late than never due to McLaren's delays in the build of the MCL40, which Norris has claimed was only finally put together on Wednesday morning before it made its maiden track appearance. Norris went on to complete a solid 76 laps, with his best a 1:18.307s on new softs, finishing just under a second behind the leading time of the week so far from Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli, albeit with times at this stage relatively meaningless. "It was nice to be back," said Norris. "Nice to see a number one on my car. Pretty cool, pretty surreal still, so good feelings." Addressing the honour of the No.1, Norris added: "I saw it earlier on the timing screen, and I still find it just unbelievable. It's still a crazy thing to see, especially when you see it now. Now is the first time I get to see it on my suit, on the car, on timing screens, all of these things, and it looks good. "Still a surreal feeling, the whole situation of being champion. But it doesn't change anything, apart from the fact that I'm at the top of the timing screens before we've even gone out because I'm the lowest number. "Now, pressure is on, but at the same time, it's just cool. It's great for the mechanics, for all of them to have that feeling and that honour, but it doesn't change anything. "Otherwise, it's still a lot of hard work that we have to put into everything, and many laps you've got to complete, but it's nice to know that I've got that number on." Norris 'going through the manual' McLaren had hoped to initially run on Monday but delayed its debut due to the car build, with Tuesday's wet weather affording them an additional day's grace, albeit boxing the team in to conducting all of its running in the final three days. As far as Norris was concerned, he and McLaren ultimately ticked all the boxes available to them on the opening day. "Our first day on track, first time that everyone gets to see the car in one piece, it's literally not been built until this morning," he said. "It's an incredible thing. "So it's nice to see it all come together, to see all the hard work that everyone does to make that car, and then I get to go and have some fun and drive it, which turned out to be a decent day. "Today was really a first understanding of the whole car, understanding how it works, going through the manual of everything. "It was a productive day, but it's one that was about figuring stuff out, making sure things are working as they should, understanding things, getting our first picture and all of it. "So, a good day for me, just to be back driving again, understanding some of the differences, but a good one for the engineers, the mechanics, the whole team, to get the first look at the regulations of this year."

2026-01-28T20:00:00+01:00 2026-01-29T18:47:09+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-extreme-design-reveals-radical-2026-f1-approach Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull's absence from Wednesday's pre-season test running provided a rare opportunity to scrutinise the RB22's aerodynamic philosophy, highlighting that the Milton Keynes-based squad has again pushed boundaries with its unconventional approach. Two standout features demonstrate just how aggressively Red Bull has interpreted the 2026 regulations. The crash structures flanking the cockpit sit prominently atop the sidepods, with their extremities extending well beyond the bodywork profile. This radical positioning allows Red Bull to maintain remarkably compact sidepods, maximising airflow towards the car's rear sections where crucial downforce is generated. It's classic Red Bull engineering: finding performance gains where others see regulatory constraints. The second notable element mirrors Mercedes' approach: a pronounced slot carved into the diffuser's lateral section. This wide aperture in the vertical sidewall directs airflow through a critical aerodynamic zone, suggesting both teams have identified similar performance opportunities. That Red Bull and Mercedes have converged on comparable solutions isn't surprising. Advanced computational fluid dynamics and wind tunnel correlation now allow teams to optimise every millimetre of bodywork, often leading to similar conclusions despite different starting philosophies. Red Bull's adoption of this diffuser concept also dispels any notion of regulatory grey areas. The solution makes aerodynamic sense, particularly with the return of rake adjustments that disappeared from earlier ground-effect machines. McLaren has similarly embraced pronounced rake angles rather than the minimal approach initially anticipated for the 2026 cars. The MCL40  machine suggests teams are converging on higher rake philosophies as the optimal aerodynamic configuration. The technical direction validates Red Bull's reputation for never choosing conservative solutions when radical alternatives offer performance advantages.

2026-01-28T19:20:00+01:00 2026-01-28T21:05:56+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/is-lewis-hamilton-facing-further-ferrari-setback-with-key-appointment-delay Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lewis Hamilton kicked off his 2026 F1 season at the Barcelona shakedown, getting behind the wheel on Tuesday afternoon. However, there were some changes made to his inner circle this year as Ferrari confirmed Riccardo Adami would no longer act as Hamilton's race engineer this year. The Italian squad has not yet announced who will replace Adami, stating it would be declared “in due course”. It means that Hamilton is without a race engineer at the start of pre-season testing, with Bryan Bozzi, the engineer of team-mate Charles Leclerc, carrying out duties in Barcelona. Former F1 driver Karun Chandhok stated his “alarm bells” were ringing over the situation, highlighting the importance of Hamilton establishing a healthy relationship with his race engineer. But do you think the delay of the appointment will hinder Hamilton? Have your say below!

2026-01-28T19:04:00+01:00 2026-01-28T21:04:41+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/george-russell-writes-off-little-to-nothing-high-as-mercedes-pound-out-the-miles Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com George Russell dismissed as "little or nothing" to be read into Mercedes table-topping times on a day when he and Kimi Antonelli delivered another astonishing lap count. Mercedes opened the five-day private test at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya with an impressive total of 151 laps between its two drivers. On Wednesday, it improved its tally to 183, with Russell logging 92 and Antonelli 91. In total, across the two days, Mercedes has clocked 334 laps, or 1,555 kilometres, the equivalent of five Spanish Grands Prix. In addition, Antonelli and Russell were comfortably quickest, with the young Italian posting a time of 1:17.362s on the softs, two-tenths of a second faster than Russell. At this early stage, however, they effectively mean nothing. Assessing his second day behind the wheel of the W17, Russell said: "Everything went relatively smoothly from a reliability perspective, so that is good for our overall programme. "This test is all about getting mileage on the car and making sure everything functions as it should. That was the case today as Kimi and myself were able to put a large number of laps in again." Highlighting the conditions he was forced to operate in, however, Russell said: "The track temperature was in the low single-digits this morning, one of the coldest circuits I’ve ever driven on, so there’s little-to-nothing you can read into the times. "The excitement lies ahead once we head to Melbourne and get a sense of where we stack up against our competitors. "For now, we are putting in the hard work and enjoying the process of getting ready for the season ahead. We’ve still got one more day of running we can accomplish, which may be tomorrow, but will depend on the weather. "We’ve got more work we want to do, and we are in a good place to run on Thursday, but we will only do so if we are confident it will be dry." Antonelli highlights 'only real goal' Antonelli, who experienced the worst of the track conditions on Monday, was at least relieved to get a full session of running under his belt. "It was a better day on my side than Monday, where the wet track in the morning limited my running," said Antonelli. "We were able to run a full race distance this afternoon, building our mileage and getting lots of data for the team to work with. "This car is completely new and a big difference from last year, so I’m getting more used to it with every lap we complete. "It's constant learning for me as a driver and the team, too, so accumulating as much mileage as we can is very useful. "We have completed our programme on both days so far. That is the only real goal of this shakedown, and hopefully our third and final day of running goes smoothly. "That may be tomorrow if the weather looks to be dry; whatever the conditions we face either tomorrow or Friday, though, we are focused on adding to our mileage and putting ourselves in the best possible position before we head to Bahrain."

2026-01-28T18:15:00+01:00 2026-01-29T14:44:31+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-3-results Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mercedes reigned supreme at the top of the timesheets on the third day of the Barcelona shakedown test. Kimi Antonelli, who took over driving duties from team-mate George Russell in the afternoon, set the fastest time of the day, clocking a 1:17.362. Russell was only two-tenths behind, however, with Mercedes the only drivers to dip into the 1:17s. Reigning champion Lando Norris made his first appearance of the week behind the wheel of his new McLaren, the MCL40, tallying 76 laps during the day. Nico Hulkenberg set the slowest lap time, however after running into some early gremlins, Audi walked away with 68 laps on the board. See the full results from Day 3 below! 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 3 Results

2026-01-28T17:45:00+01:00 2026-01-28T18:22:08+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/gabriel-bortoleto-highlights-audi-hunt-after-barcelona-issues Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Gabriel Bortoleto has highlighted Audi is carrying out secure measures to iron out any issues in the Barcelona shakedown before the pre-season test in Bahrain. Bortoleto and Audi took to the track in Barcelona on Monday as it completed its first of three days of running this week. However, its day was largely curtailed by an issue which forced Bortoleto to stop on the track, causing a red flag. Bortoleto asserted Audi was expecting such teething issues with its new car ahead of its maiden F1 campaign. “We were doing a pretty decent job in the morning, putting some laps on the board, testing some things,” Bortoleto said. “We were going in the right direction. But as we all expect, this is a shakedown and everything can happen. “We expected to find issues here and there in the car. We found a couple of problems that unfortunately put us out of the day, basically from the morning already.  “So I didn't run much. But it was expected, this type of thing.” Audi has joined the grid with its own power unit and aims to fight for a world championship by the 2030 campaign. But with its F1 tenure in its early stages, its current focus is on establishing a strong base in preparation for the season-opening round in Australia. “We are finding everything now to hopefully not find it in the next test or even in the in the first race of the year,” Bortoleto added. “Overall, I would say, when we were running, it was positive. “It was good to have a feel with the new car, the new regulations, the power unit and everything. “So hopefully on the next day I'm driving, I can get a few more laps on board.”

2026-01-28T16:53:00+01:00 2026-01-28T21:05:34+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/williams-make-striking-barcelona-test-revelation-after-incredibly-painful-decision Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com James Vowles has revealed Williams could have taken part in this week's pre-season test in Barcelona, but were ultimately forced to make a decision he has described as "incredibly painful". Williams announced on Friday that it would not be involved in the five days of private running at the Circuit de Catalunya, at that stage due to the car failing crash tests, as RacingNews365 understands, relating to the nose box. Team principal Vowles has confirmed the FW48 has since passed those tests, and conceded it could have joined the other eight teams which have so far conducted running, but felt it was in the best interests of Williams not to do so. Initially stating that it "clearly wasn't our plan, and it's incredibly painful" not to be in Barcelona, he then explained what led to him making such a pivotal call. "But I do want it to be acknowledged, it's the result of our determination to push the limits of performance under the new regulations," he said, speaking to select media, including RacingNews365 . "We are transforming here at Williams, and fast, and one of the tasks that has been on my shoulders for a few years is making sure we transform this business at the absolute maximum rate possible. "In my experience, the only way you achieve that is by pushing the boundaries and limits hard and aggressively and finding your limitations. "There's no point being just underneath the curve, or well and truly underneath the curve, if you want to transform at speed, you need to find the pain points and put them right very quickly, which is exactly what we're doing. "I'm confident in our decision to miss Barcelona, and I'm confident it was the right one to prepare for the first test in Bahrain and Melbourne." 'We could have made it - simple as that' Asked by RacingNews365 whether, after eventually passing the crash tests late in the day, whether Williams could have made it to Barcelona, Vowles acknowledged that to be the case, but made clear why his team has not joined the party. "In terms of Barcelona, we could have made Barcelona testing - simple as that," he declared. "We could have made it. "But in doing so, I would have to turn upside down the impact on spares, components and updates across Bahrain, Melbourne and beyond. "The evaluation of it was that for running in a cold, damp Barcelona, against doing a VTT [Virtual Track Test], against the spare situation, then frankly, there was zero points for running in a shutdown test. "We made the decision, and I stand by it, that the right thing to do is to make sure we're turning up in Bahrain correctly prepared, and prepared for Melbourne as well." As a stopgap, Williams has been running on the VTT. Explaining what that entails, Vowles said: "It is pretty much most of the physical car. "You don't have wings bolted to it, but you have the chassis, the engine, the gearbox. You test, using brake robots, your braking systems at the same time, so you have all of the brakes fitted. "What you're doing is characterising your cooling system, understanding what that is, running the engine, gearbox, etcetera, under load. "So you don't have dynamic cornering loads, but you can, for example, mimic having two cars in front of you, one car in front of you, no cars in front of you. You can mimic being in Singapore or Bahrain, or being in four-degree Silverstone weather conditions. "And what you can do, especially in tandem to those running in Barcelona, is run the same code base that they're running on the PU and the gearbox to understand the effects, but in a more controlled environment than they are. "So you still get learning on various systems, energy, ECU, as a result of it. It's invaluable learning, but it is not the same as running on track. It's just a good use of time, and that's it."

2026-01-28T16:40:00+01:00 2026-01-28T18:21:46+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/oliver-bearman-reveals-lot-longer-haas-issue-due-to-2026-f1-intricacy Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Oliver Bearman has explained that the "more intricate details" of the new 2026 F1 cars proved to be a thorn in his side on his first day of pre-season testing with Haas. On Monday, at the start of the five-day private test at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya, Esteban Ocon delivered a heroic display for the team, pounding out 154 laps, more than twice a race distance. Unfortunately for Bearman, he encountered a problem early on the third day that consigned him to the garage for a lengthy period before returning just before the lunch break. Overall, Bearman managed just 21 laps in the morning session. Bearman has indicated that the problem was power-unit related, one that would have been solved quickly last season. However, with the change to the system for this year, with the axing of the MGU-H and a switch to a 50-50 split between combustion and electrical, issues are now far more tricky to diagnose and correct. "Unfortunately, we had a small issue, but that's what this [testing] is all about," said Bearman. "We expect to have these issues.  "Everybody's learning the car and the new bits and procedures. So the problem we had, which would have taken maybe 30 minutes with last year's car, since everybody knew it so well, took a lot longer. "It's just because there are a few more intricate details, and there's just so much more to the power unit compared to what we've been used to." Bearman, who returned to the cockpit of the VF-26 in the afternoon session, feels Haas should at least be proud of delivering on track so far, including a successful shakedown last week at Fiorano ahead of Ocon's mammoth Monday stint. "First of all, to be out at the shakedown, and to be out at this test and do a whole day, we completed more than two race distances, closer to three, actually, with no major issues," he said. "It's super, super impressive for our team, and I think everybody should be really proud of that achievement. "Of course, we're setting our targets high. We want to continue to learn about this car. Every lap is a learning experience for us at this stage, but it's good fun as well. "It's my first time being in this situation, with a regulation change, where, as drivers, we can have so much impact on the end result, so it's a great prospect."

2026-01-28T16:05:00+01:00 2026-01-28T18:21:26+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/f1-boss-stefano-domenicali-handed-huge-olympics-honour Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com It's not every day you get handed such an honour. But with the Winter Olympics just around the corner, F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali was afforded an opportunity he simply could not refuse. With the Games on home soil in Italy running from February 6-22, Domenicali has played his part in carrying the Olympic Torch to Milan Cortina, where the 25th Olympiad will be staged. Domenicali carried the flame to Lake Carezza. It is certainly different than being in Barcelona for the first pre-season test ahead of the 2026 F1 season! Check out the F1 social post below! 2016520381851484372 Our President and CEO, Stefano Domenicali carries the Winter @Olympics torch! 👋🔥 #F1 @milanocortina26 pic.twitter.com/1yOknhdVvO — Formula 1 (@F1) January 28, 2026

2026-01-28T15:40:00+01:00 2026-01-28T18:21:13+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-boss-acknowledges-power-unit-tension-as-key-f1-milestone-reached Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has admitted the team was feeling “tension” as it awaited the first laps with its new power unit. The Red Bull RB22 made its first on-track appearance on Monday with Isack Hadjar behind the wheel. It marked the debut of the DM01 power unit, Red Bull's first ever in-house-built engine. With the project in the works for several years, Red Bull's opening day was a relatively smooth one with no major issues arising with its engine. Reflecting on the culmination of many hours of hard work, Mekies said: "We knew it would be a very special moment to be here for the first time with RB22, with our own power unit. “It came with that special atmosphere and tension. "The last few months and weeks have been incredibly hectic to be ready. “Ultimately, we were ready on Monday morning to run and I can only take that opportunity to say a big thank you and well done to everybody back in Milton Keynes chassis and power unit side. “It was incredible to see the car going out at a few minutes past nine on Monday morning with our own power unit.” Mekies has consistently downplayed the competitiveness of the engine, expressing on several occasions that it can't be directly compared to the likes of Mercedes and Ferrari, who have long been engine manufacturers in F1. The Frenchman continued this outlook after seeing the car take to the track earlier this week. “We have to do our homework and we have to do it step by step,” Mekies added. Red Bull's test programme took a hit on Tuesday evening when Hadjar slipped off the road and collided with the barrier, ruling it out of running on Wednesday.

2026-01-28T14:50:00+01:00 2026-01-28T18:20:54+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/ferrari-in-dreamland-but-still-facing-a-very-very-long-list Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Ferrari chief race engineer Matteo Togninalli has revealed the Scuderia faces "a very, very long list" it needs to complete over the remainder of this week's pre-season test in Barcelona, despite the "dream" of its first day of running. After skipping the first day at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya, Ferrari hit the track with its SF-26 on Tuesday, with Charles Leclerc behind the wheel in dry conditions that only lasted for the initial 90 minutes. Despite the wet weather that followed for the remainder of the day, including when Lewis Hamilton took over in the afternoon, the duo still managed to clock 120 laps between them, a total of 561 kilometres. In terms of early reliability, Ferrari could not have wished for a better start to its test programme, which Togninalli stated was the "most important point" as the team "completed its programme". Togninalli added: "Performance-wise, it's far too early. We are trying to understand the car, fine-tune the car. It's more about putting laps on it. So I'm positive." As for the checklist for the remainder of the week, he said: "We will carry on with understanding the car. The first step is understanding and learning because it is a completely new car - tyres, aerodynamic behaviour, power unit behaviour. "Then, step by step, we will try to optimise, looking forward to Bahrain. We are expecting the next few days to be dry, so it will be good to run in the dry, and it will be good and useful to have others to compare with.  "But we will focus on ourselves, and we have a long list of things to sign off - measurements, characterisation, test items, setup. It's a very, very long list." Togninalli maintains the undertaking by Ferrari "has been huge", claiming the Scuderia "started years ago with the power unit", and then, obviously, at the start of last year, looking at the new bodywork. Overall, though, Togninalli could not be happier. "We have all arrived very tight to this test," he said. "You can see teams not running, or they couldn't run because they're a bit tight with parts and car preparation. "But people have done a good job, completing a good number in terms of mileage. If you look back to the new regulations in the past, it was like a dream to complete over 600 kilometres in one day. "So positive in that respect. For the rest [of testing], we will have to wait and see how things go."

2026-01-28T14:00:00+01:00 2026-01-28T14:06:03+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mercedes-highlight-monumental-scale-of-f1-2026-journey Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mercedes trackside engineer Andrew Shovlin has stated the F1 2026 rule change has been the “biggest project” the team has ever undertaken. The Brackley-based squad gave the W17 challenger its on-track debut at a shakedown at Silverstone before taking to the track on Monday in Barcelona as part of the first pre-season outing. A brand new power unit has been built by Mercedes, as well as a fresh chassis with vastly different aerodynamic rules. With the engine in production for several years, Shovlin asserted the scale of the project has not been lost on the team. “It has been an absolutely monumental project,” he said. “And on the power unit side in Brixworth, they've been working on it for years. “It’s a very, very difficult and challenging program. You've also got all the complexity that the fuel development throws into that with Petronas. “And then on the chassis side, a completely new set of regulations. Coupled with that, we've got all new electronic systems. “It’s the biggest project we've ever done as a team.” Both George Russell and Kimi Antonelli got behind the wheel on Monday, tallying 151 laps between them. It marked a strong start for the team, who is hoping to enter the year ahead of title challengers. “We don't know where we stand in terms of performance, but we are able to keep the car out on track, which is great because we'll be able to hopefully learn at a good rate,” Shovlin added. “It’s a testament to, in some cases, years of preparation for these early days.” Mercedes' strong start continued on Wednesday, with Russell tallying 92 laps in the morning segment.

2026-01-28T13:40:00+01:00 2026-01-29T08:02:38+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-3-morning-results Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com George Russell held the fastest lap time halfway through the third day of running in Barcelona, setting a 1:17.580. Perhaps even more impressive, however, is the Briton's lap count as he clocked up 92 tours of the circuit. It was a difficult morning for Nico Hulkenberg and Audi as another mechanical issue forced the German driver to pull over after just four laps. Lando Norris and McLaren made their first appearance of the test week, with the reigning champion sitting in third place. See the morning results below! 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 3 Morning Results

2026-01-28T13:35:00+01:00 2026-01-28T21:05:13+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/impressive-mercedes-thunder-on-in-barcelona-as-lando-norris-shows-off-new-mclaren Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mercedes maintained its sterling reliability at the start of 2026 F1 pre-season testing as George Russell clocked up the laps on a day when McLaren finally made its first appearance. It was a day when several teams made an appearance, as the forecasted rain failed to materialise, although for Audi and Haas it did not go as planned. Nico Hulkenberg had managed four laps in the Audi before encountering an apparent technical issue that has since consigned him to the garage, whilst Oliver Bearman also caused a brief interruption, but was back on track just before the lunch break. After sitting out the first two days of the five-day private test at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya, all eyes were naturally on the McLaren garage to see if the MCL40 would make an appearance. Finally, bearing the No.1 on his car, F1 champion Lando Norris took to the track to complete systems checks, clocking 34 laps, seemingly without any issues. The car is expected to run more productively over the final two days. In terms of reliability, Mercedes again made a particular impression. George Russell had completed 92 laps by 1 pm local time. After the car completed 154 laps on Monday, between Russell and team-mate Kimi Antonelli, the Silver Arrows is currently amassing the data on its W17. Russell also ended the morning session with the fastest lap, 1:17.580s, set late on. For some time, Alpine's Franco Colapinto had led the way with a 1:19.150s. Racing Bulls has also been on track, with Arvid Lindblad behind the wheel. Red Bull opted to skip the test day after Isack Hadjar's crash, while Ferrari and Cadillac have not yet appeared. Aston Martin and Williams were already known not to be there on Wednesday. View the all-new McLaren below!

2026-01-28T12:40:00+01:00 2026-01-28T18:20:10+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lewis-hamilton-alarm-bells-highlighted-ahead-of-new-f1-season Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Former F1 driver Karun Chandhok has highlighted “alarm bells” over Lewis Hamilton's race engineer situation ahead of the new season. Ferrari confirmed earlier this month that Riccardo Adami would not serve as Hamilton's race engineer for the upcoming campaign after being paired together for the seven-time champion's debut season with the Italian squad. However, Ferrari is yet to announce who will be the voice in Hamilton's ear this year, meaning Hamilton is not working with his permanent race engineer at the Barcelona shakedown this week. With a full-time figure yet to be named, Chandhok asserted the situation is far from ideal for Hamilton as he looks to enjoy a more positive season with Ferrari this year. “The other thing that’s ringing alarm bells for me is his engineer situation,” Chandhok told Sky F1 . “As far as we understand, Bryan Bozzi who is Charles Leclerc's race engineer, was running the car [on Tuesday], including for Lewis. “That confuses me, if I’m perfectly honest. That relationship between driver and race engineer is so, so important. “Getting the feedback from the driver, in my experience, a good engineer-driver relationship are the unspoken things. When one is complaining about something, the other is able to finish their sentence and say 'we're going to do this'.” The relationship between Hamilton and Adami appeared sub-optimal during the 2025 campaign, with Hamilton sometimes heard voicing his frustration over the communication procedures. Chandhok suggested Ferrari should have used the January period to get Hamilton and his new race engineer gelling together at a TPC (testing of previous car) outing. “They haven’t created a situation where Lewis is building that relationship over the winter,” he said. “I would have loved to see him do simulator days [or] go and get a TPC car and bond with a new race engineer. “You need to integrate that person into the engineering set up of the race team. They have to work in an environment along with the other engineers when the driver is not around.  “The public hear the driver-engineer discussion, but that’s just a microcosm of the bigger conversations happening in that engineering office. “To me, I’m slightly confused that as we sit here, we’ve already started testing, that bonding and relationship-building hasn’t started, off the back of a season which was not good.”

2026-01-28T11:45:00+01:00 2026-01-28T13:44:38+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/audi-f1-troubles-continue-with-second-on-track-stoppage Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Audi's R26 challenger came to a stop once again at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on Day 3 of testing. Nico Hulkenberg was behind the wheel of the car which ground to a halt between Turns 9 and 10, according to reports. It marks the second time this week that Audi has faced a mechanical issue which forced it to switch off its car. Audi made its on-track debut on Monday with Gabriel Bortoleto but managed just 27 laps before it was struck with an issue. The team asserted it deliberately opted to leave the car in the garage for the rest of the day in order to get to the root of the problem and iron out the issue. However, the car faced another issue early on during Day 3 in Barcelona which disrupted its running - but it is not yet known if it is a related problem to Monday. While the Barcelona shakedown is being used for teams to discover any teething problems with its car, it may spark concern around Audi's reliability early in the season. The German manufacturer has joined the grid for the first time, complete with its own power unit. Audi, however, did not cause the only red flag of the session as Oliver Bearman stopped at Turn 2 in the opening hours.

2026-01-28T10:50:00+01:00 2026-01-28T11:37:23+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/the-details-behind-ferraris-f1-2026-debut---and-what-is-to-come Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Ferrari made its first appearance at the Barcelona shakedown test on Tuesday, with Charles Leclerc getting behind the wheel in the morning. The Monegasque driver achieved a total of 64 laps as he gave the debut to the brand-new Ferrari SF-26. In a predetermined plan, Lewis Hamilton was always due to take over in the afternoon. The focus of the day was partly on checks of various operating modes of the power unit and partly, should the weather conditions allow, on a first observation of the active aerodynamics. Because of the conditions, it was Leclerc who was able to pick up driving duties covering the latter part.  He was the only driver working with the so-called Partial Active Aero Mode, the third aerodynamic configuration approved by the FIA at last December's World Motor Sport Council. This mode represents a compromise between the configuration for straights (Straight Mode) and the standard corner mode (Corner Mode). The choice of this mode depended heavily on track conditions. After several early runs on a largely dry track, the asphalt became wet during the morning due to heavy rain.  Although the track later dried out again, grip levels remained variable until the lunch break. This prevented Ferrari from fully completing the scheduled program. Leclerc's runs, however, provided valuable information.  The different modes of the power unit, combined with extensive aerodynamic measurements involving flow-vis on the rear wing, determined the shape of his outing. Hamilton drove his program mainly in wet conditions with limited grip. The seven-time world champion tallied 58 laps, which means the more pronounced aerodynamic test work for him will be pushed forward to the remaining days of testing. Reliability Although lap times are not a priority at the moment, one aspect clearly stood out positively: the reliability of the power unit.  Already during the first day of testing, no significant problems were reported by the Haas and Cadillac customer teams - both for the combustion engine and the battery. That represents an important basis in this preparatory phase, in which teams are faced with many technical issues. These must be answered not only during this test in Barcelona, but also during the following two sessions in Bahrain. During the remaining days of testing, Ferrari is focusing primarily on the dynamic analysis of the SF-26. The emphasis here is on extensive data collection around the suspension and on aerodynamic performance, particularly the distribution of downforce generated. The various modes (recharge, boost and overtake mode) of the power unit also remain the subject of evaluation, especially during long runs.  This will look specifically at energy recovery through the various systems, with extra attention to regeneration during braking.

2026-01-28T09:55:00+01:00 2026-01-29T21:33:28+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lewis-hamilton-delivers-early-ferrari-verdict-after-first-2026-laps Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lewis Hamilton cut a positive figure after his initial experience behind the wheel of Ferrari's new F1 challenger on Tuesday. Ferrari made its first appearance at the shakedown test on Day 2, with Charles Leclerc handling morning duties before Hamilton took over in the afternoon. Unfortunately for Hamilton, all of his running came in wet conditions as rain saturated the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Despite the weather setback, Ferrari was able to clock up respectable mileage - leaving Hamilton to look back on the day favourably. “It was very challenging, it started raining at 10:30, so obviously Charles had a little bit of dry running,” he said. “But then it's been wet all afternoon, so figuring out how to get the tyres working, it was really productive.  “I think we got 120 laps or something like that - given it's in the wet conditions, and we had a red flag, I think that's pretty solid.  “So [I'm] really proud of everyone back at the factory for getting the car to this point. “We got a lot of information on the car today, we definitely need to keep it up. Lots and lots to do, but a good first day.” The major regulation change this year marks an opportunity for Ferrari to spiral up the pecking order and compete at the front of the field once again following a dismal 2025 campaign. With no major concerns coming its way on Tuesday, Hamilton is hoping it is a theme that will continue for the Italian squad going forward. “It could be so much worse,” he said. “It's such a big regulation change. There were no major issues. “It's just small little increments that we are trying to improve on. I think it's great. We just need to try and get some more days like this.”

2026-01-28T09:35:00+01:00 2026-01-28T18:19:49+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-make-barcelona-day-3-test-decision-after-isack-hadjar-crash Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull will not take to the track on Wednesday in Barcelona as it continues to carry out an assessment of the RB22. The Milton Keynes-based squad was present and tallying laps at the opening two days of the shakedown event on Monday and Tuesday. However, its test took a hit on Tuesday evening when Isack Hadjar slipped off the road and collided with the barrier at Turn 14. Speaking after the day of running, team principal Laurent Mekies confirmed the team would “carefully” consider when it would take to the track once again. The F1 teams are only allowed to run three days this week, meaning Red Bull has just one more test day in hand before it travels to the second test in Bahrain next month. RacingNews365 understands that Red Bull has now decided it will not field its car on Wednesday as it carries out assessments on the car. Despite the setback, Mekies asserted it has been a positive week thus far for Red Bull. “It was very tricky conditions this afternoon, so very unfortunate that it finished that way, but it's part of the game,” he said. “These difficulties came after a very, very positive day yesterday in terms of the number of laps Isack could complete in the car, and in terms of his learning and development and feedback to the engineers.”

2026-01-28T09:30:00+01:00 2026-01-27T19:19:45+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/formula-e-insists-brands-hatch-switch-not-complicated-as-confirmation-awaits Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds has insisted that if the series raced at Brands Hatch, it would not be "complicated," with confirmation of its Gen4 UK home still to be announced. Since July 2021, Formula E's home in the UK has been the London ExCeL Centre, which will host this year's season finale in August. However, with the bigger, faster, and more powerful Gen4 car set to be introduced next season (a December start is expected), continuing at the exhibition centre is highly unlikely. While Formula E would love to continue at the venue, there are serious limitations when it comes to making track layout changes to accommodate the next era of car. Both Silverstone and Brands Hatch have been rumoured, but it is the latter that has been mentioned most often in the paddock. Nothing is confirmed yet by Formula E as to where in the UK it will race next year; however, a decision is expected by the end of this month. According to The Race , Formula E visited Brands Hatch last month, which is situated just three miles outside the M25 motorway, anything inside of which is typically regarded as Greater London. Concerns have been raised over a possible layout and whether the infrastructure is up to standard for an FIA World Championship, with Dodds noting that neither the current Indy nor Grand Prix configurations are suitable without modification. Despite this, Dodds insists that making a race happen would be very doable, should both the championship and the venue want the same outcome. Asked what work would need doing to Brands Hatch to host Formula E, Dodds told RacingNews365 in Mexico: "So, obviously its got two layouts there. I think neither layout is perfect in their current incarnation, so there'd be work to be done.  "But I don't think it would be that complicated. I think, with any circuit, if there's a willingness from us and a willingness from the circuit owner to make it happen, that's a pretty straightforward exercise." A short-term fix? What the ExCeL Centre has done for Formula E is give it a real home in the UK, with the event always being entertaining and drawing respectable turnouts. While it was not in central London, it was the next best thing, given its easy transport links for fans. Replicating that elsewhere will be very difficult, unless the venue is within close proximity to the ExCeL. Formula E wants to race in London, but at the same time, should the likes of Brands Hatch take on the UK host role from 2027, Dodds does not want it to be merely a short-term fix. Discussing if the likes of Brands Hatch would be a short-term fix while a more central London venue is found, Dodds explained: "I hope not. You want to race in London, right? If you could, you'd race in London. "The challenge with racing in London is as the cars get bigger and more powerful, the places you can race in London become more limited. "There are locations in London that we could race, but they're very complicated, because you've got to get multiple permissions, logistics aren't easy. "It's just complicated and expensive. So if there's a solution that isn't central London, wherever we go, my ambition would be we go there for a period of time."

2026-01-28T09:00:00+01:00 2026-01-28T20:36:24+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/live-2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-3 Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Formula 1 pre-season testing ahead of the 2026 season officially got underway earlier this week as Monday represented the start of the first event of the year in Barcelona.  Held behind-closed-doors and with no live timing available, each team is permitted to run for three days across the five-day test.  Dry weather greeted the paddock for the opening day, while Tuesday saw rain for the majority of the day. So far, only Red Bull has run on both days, leaving them with one final day of running. McLaren and Aston Martin are yet to be seen and with more mixed weather expected for Day 3, tricky conditions could make data gathering rather difficult. While F1 is restricting as much access to this test as possible, RacingNews365 will do our best to keep you informed about what is happening in Barcelona! Below, you can follow live updates as day 3 from the Spanish track takes place!

2026-01-28T08:20:00+01:00 2026-01-28T11:37:55+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-assessing-f1-test-programme-carefully-after-isack-hadjar-crash Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull is unsure when its RB22 will take to the track once again during the Barcelona shakedown test following a crash for Isack Hadjar. As the second day of the pre-season test reached its closing stages, Hadjar slipped off the road at Turn 14 and sustained damage against the barrier. The difficult moment came just one day after the Frenchman topped the timesheet for his new team. Tuesday's test was mostly held in wet conditions, creating an added challenge for the drivers behind the wheel of the new generation of car. Now, Red Bull's attention turns to repairing the car ahead of its next on-track appearance. “[There was] no chance for dry tyres, but some, some good learning on the wet,” team principal Laurent Mekies said. “Unfortunately it didn't end up in the right way. But what is important that Isack is okay. “We will try our best to repair the car and to see what's coming next. “It was very tricky conditions this afternoon, so very unfortunate that it finished that way, but it's part of the game. “These difficulties came after a very, very positive day yesterday in terms of the number of laps Isack could complete in the car, and in terms of his learning and development and feedback to the engineers.” Red Bull ran the car on Monday and Tuesday, meaning it has just one more day in hand to run the car this week. With more unwelcome weather forecasted, Mekies stated Red Bull must choose its final day carefully to ensure it leaves the test in the best possible shape. “The checklist is too long to be completed in just a few days in Barcelona,” he said. “So it's always going to be a matter of priority, and trying to be flexible and adapt your programme as difficulties come out or in terms of when you find an interesting direction that you should pursue. “We only have one day left, so we have to make sure we play that card carefully.”

2026-01-28T07:20:00+01:00 2026-01-28T18:18:53+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/why-f1-cars-now-possess-new-safety-feature-seen-after-isack-hadjar-crash Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com It is hard to believe that 40 years after hazard warning lights became a legal requirement in the United Kingdom, and were common on road cars in the United States in the 1960s, F1 has adopted this particular safety feature. The FIA announced in its Technical Regulations last year, under Article 14.3.3, that 'two further lights' would be required on the side of an F1 car, in addition to the single light mounted on the rear. In wet conditions, the flashing red light on the rear has been invaluable to any driver who has been forced to navigate their way through the volumes of spray being emitted by the car they are following. The FIA, however, has felt the need to go one step further this season, with the addition of the sidelights that mirror the effect of hazard warning lights, or blinkers, on standard road cars. FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis has explained why the introduction of "added lights on the side of the car" has been made. He said: "It is to counter a situation in the wet when there’s poor visibility. If a car is spinning and is in a lateral position onto ongoing traffic, these lights will help the ongoing car see the spinning car, and therefore, obviously, hopefully avoid it." The new measure is in addition to the roll hoop being made "quite a lot stronger", according to Tombazis, whilst the side impact structure is "tougher". Furthermore, he stated that, "the front nose is designed to withstand lateral impacts without falling off, and all the impact structures have become tougher and more strict. "These structures and safety measures are one more sign that safety is always a priority for the FIA." You can see the new hazard warning lights working on Isack Hadjar's Red Bull following his crash in testing on Tuesday in an X post below. 2016183912741900646 🚨 HADJAR CONTRA EL MURO!! @Nachez98 #f1 pic.twitter.com/Kx3DhqNd99 — FormulaNacho (@FormulaNacho) January 27, 2026

2026-01-28T06:30:00+01:00 2026-01-28T08:23:46+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-reveals-fascinating-driver-management-approach Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Max Verstappen has revealed his fascinating approach to driver management, with the four-time world champion overseeing several drivers as part of his GT team and Team Redline, the simulator outfit with which he has a close partnership. A day off is a rarity for Verstappen, who, when he is not racing in Formula 1, is either competing in GT machinery, racing on a simulator, or managing Verstappen.com Racing. It is one of the fastest-rising GT teams, with Verstappen heavily involved in the management of its younger drivers, one of whom he revealed has been signed from a simulator background. Verstappen’s approach to managing his drivers is based on the belief that improvement is always possible, with him making it clear that even after a victory for Red Bull in F1, he still assesses a Grand Prix to see what he could have done better. For the 28-year-old, he wants his young drivers to have the mentality of always wanting to "find more" performance, whether that comes from themselves, the team, or their rivals. Asked what advice he gives to the drivers he manages, Verstappen told the Pirelli Box Box Box podcast: "Oh, this can be a lot of different things. In general, you’re working with drivers who are just a lot more inexperienced, right? Now this year, for example, is the first year that I brought one of my sim drivers into the real world, so it’s a big learning curve. "But at the same time, we entered knowing — I said, I know this is a learning year, but we still compare ourselves with the best. We don’t go in there and just accept that P10 is a great result, for example. We still always look back at the weekend, comparing ourselves to the best, because that’s the target. That’s where we need to work towards, right? That’s, of course, working towards how the drivers are, how the teams are operating. "Of course, we take our class wins here and there; it’s nice. It’s a good little boost for the drivers as well. But yeah, after every weekend, you come back and analyse the things that can still be done better, even when you think you had a good weekend. And that’s always, I think, what I try to tell them: you can have a good weekend, you can feel happy with yourself, but you always have to look at things you can improve. "Because even if I win in Formula 1, yes, it’s a great weekend, but there are always things you look at and think, if we tried this or did that, would it have made a difference? How can we find more? You never stop learning. You always want to be better, basically, and that’s what I apply to the drivers, and to the team in general. When you think, ‘Oh, I’m happy with the car, we did a great job,’ sure — but how can you find more?"

2026-01-27T22:00:00+01:00 2026-01-28T21:04:56+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/isack-hadjar-crashes-as-max-verstappen-triggers-early-day-2-red-flag-racingnews365-review Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Isack Hadjar has suffered his first crash as a Red Bull Formula 1 driver during the final hour of running on the second day of Barcelona testing. Red Bull is the only team to have run on both days of testing so far at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, with Max Verstappen having driven the RB22 on Tuesday morning. READ MORE: Isack Hadjar suffers first Red Bull F1 crash Max Verstappen causes early red flag at Barcelona testing Max Verstappen caused the first red flag of the second test day from Barcelona as the Dutchman made his first appearance behind the wheel of the RB22. His new team-mate Isack Hadjar drove the car on Monday as the shakedown test officially got underway ahead of the new season. READ MORE: Max Verstappen causes early red flag at Barcelona testing 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 2 results Max Verstappen set the second-quickest lap on a quiet second day of testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. After a busy opening day, only Red Bull and Ferrari took to the circuit on Tuesday; however, only the first couple of hours were completed in dry conditions. READ MORE: 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 2 results McLaren explain Barcelona F1 pre-season test delay McLaren has confirmed it will finally run over the final three days of this week's pre-season test in Barcelona. Team principal Andrea Stella declared last week that the team would conduct a filming day, when 200 kilometres are allowed, on the opening day of the private, five-day test at the Circuit de Catalunya. READ MORE: McLaren explain Barcelona F1 pre-season test delay Sergio Perez spies 'positive' from early Cadillac F1 issues Sergio Perez has admitted Cadillac faced various issues as it made its first test appearance in Barcelona on Monday. However, the 36-year-old is content with the challenges appearing early on so they can be ironed out ahead of the season-opening round in Australia. READ MORE: Sergio Perez spies 'positive' from early Cadillac F1 issues George Russell delivers 'pretty impressive' verdict as new Mercedes era begins George Russell has stated he found the opening day of on-track action in Barcelona “pretty impressive” as a new era of F1 got underway. Barcelona is hosting the first pre-season test of the year, with teams allowed to choose three days this week to run their cars. READ MORE: George Russell delivers 'pretty impressive' verdict as new Mercedes era begins

2026-01-27T20:00:00+01:00 2026-01-28T08:23:49+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/liam-lawson-addresses-huge-f1-change-i-havent-got-my-head-around-it Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Liam Lawson has addressed the scale of Formula 1’s regulation changes, noting after his first day of track action in Barcelona that he still has not got his “head around it”. The New Zealander drove for the entirety of the opening day of the five-day test in Barcelona and gathered valuable data, despite causing a red flag before lunch as a safety precaution. It represented Racing Bulls’ first official full day on track with its new car, having completed a shakedown at Imola ahead of the first 2026 pre-season test. For Lawson, it offered a chance to begin understanding how to operate all the new systems as part of the new power unit regulations, with DRS no longer featuring in F1. Understanding the new systems is a huge task for all drivers, although Lawson believes it has increased the difference a driver can make — something he views as a positive. Ultimately, the 23-year-old completed 88 laps, gathering valuable information for Racing Bulls and Red Bull Powertrains. Asked how different the new car felt to the previous regulations, Lawson told F1TV : "Yeah, they’re very, very different, and I definitely haven’t got my head around it fully yet. "It’s something we’ll keep learning over the next few days and weeks, when we go to Bahrain as well. But yeah, it’s very, very different. "It feels like there’s a lot more we can do as drivers, potentially, to make a difference, which is good. "But right now it’s very early days, so it’s very hard to know where we are. For now, we’re just trying to learn how to optimise the car."

2026-01-27T19:10:00+01:00 2026-01-27T19:24:21+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/is-williams-facing-major-f1-disadvantage-after-missing-barcelona-test Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Williams has faced a disastrous start to the 2026 Formula 1 season after missing the first test in Barcelona. The Grove-based outfit is the only team not at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for the five-day test, during which each squad is permitted to run for three days. RacingNews365 discovered last week that Williams had faced difficulties passing the FIA’s mandatory crash tests, leading to the decision to skip the opening test. For Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon, the hope is that the British team will be present in Bahrain for the two three-day tests next month; however, by missing Barcelona, a third of pre-season testing has been lost. Not only has Williams lost a third of pre-season testing, it has also missed the opportunity to gather data across two very different circuits. While the test is taking place, Williams’ drivers are undertaking simulator work to ensure not all is lost by being absent from Spain. Is Williams facing a major disadvantage after missing the test in Barcelona? Have your say by voting in the poll below!

2026-01-27T18:35:00+01:00 2026-01-27T23:00:03+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-explain-barcelona-f1-pre-season-test-delay Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com McLaren has confirmed it will finally run over the final three days of this week's pre-season test in Barcelona. Team principal Andrea Stella declared last week that the team would conduct a shakedown on the opening day of the private, five-day test at the Circuit de Catalunya. Although the majority of the teams conducted meaningful running on Monday, with the likes of Mercedes and Haas clocking 154 laps apiece, McLaren did not emerge on track. On Tuesday, the inclement weather, with rain hitting the circuit mid-morning and continuing into the afternoon, meant McLaren continued to keep its MCL40, which is due to run in an interim test livery, under wraps. Although rain is again forecast on Wednesday, the team has stated it will get its programme up and running, whilst also explaining why it has intentionally delayed matters so far. "With track testing for the 2026 season underway and the permitted running time limited to three days over a five-day period, the McLaren has approached this week’s Barcelona shakedown utilising the full flexibility of the programme," the team stated.  "We plan to run on track for the final three days of testing, while the opening days have provided an important opportunity for the full car to be assembled and checked." It is now yet known whether Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri will be first behind the wheel.

2026-01-27T18:21:00+01:00 2026-01-28T13:46:31+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-2-results Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Max Verstappen set the second-quickest lap on a quiet second day of testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. After a busy opening day, only Red Bull and Ferrari took to the circuit on Tuesday; however, only the first couple of hours were completed in dry conditions. Rain struck Barcelona mid-morning and remained for the rest of the day, with Verstappen's 1:19.580 in the dry being the fastest lap of the day. Charles Leclerc drove for Ferrari in the morning session and was second-quickest, before Isack Hadjar and Lewis Hamilton featured in the afternoon. Leclerc completed the most laps of the four drivers, circulating Barcelona 64 times. Unfortunately, in Hadjar's final session of the week, he crashed heavily at the final corner, causing major rear damage to the RB22. Check out the second day results below! 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 2 results

2026-01-27T17:34:00+01:00 2026-01-28T11:38:28+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/isack-hadjar-suffers-first-red-bull-f1-crash Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Isack Hadjar has suffered his first crash as a Red Bull Formula 1 driver during the final hour of running on the second day of Barcelona testing. Red Bull is the only team to have run on both days of testing so far at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, with Max Verstappen having driven the RB22 on Tuesday morning. Within the opening minutes, the Dutchman triggered a red flag after sliding into the gravel; however, he safely returned to the Red Bull garage. He handed the RB22 over to Hadjar for Tuesday's afternoon session, which is the Frenchman's final running in the car after having driven in both sessions on Monday. In the wet conditions that persisted for much of the second day, Hadjar crashed at Turn 14, just shy of the final 30 minutes of track action, damaging the rear of the car, which was embedded in a TecPro barrier. Images quickly circulated on social media of Hadjar's car being recovered by marshals, bringing what had been a very promising day and a half of running to an end for the 21-year-old. Despite the disappointing end to his test in Barcelona, it was quickly reported that Hadjar was OK. 2016183912741900646 🚨 HADJAR CONTRA EL MURO!! @Nachez98 #f1 pic.twitter.com/Kx3DhqNd99 — FormulaNacho (@FormulaNacho) January 27, 2026

2026-01-27T16:40:00+01:00 2026-01-27T18:22:23+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/fia-explain-cost-cap-discount-to-avoid-f1-teams-being-condemned-to-eternal-misery Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis has explained the rationale behind the "catch-up opportunities" afforded to the power unit manufacturers this season to ensure they do not swiftly exit the sport. The new PU regulations for this season, with a 50-50 split between combustion and electric, have resulted in a dramatic change in the manufacturer landscape as GM is the force behind Cadillac's entry, Ford is partnering with Red Bull, and Honda has returned after a five-year absence. As with any shake-up, there is likely to be a spread in the field dependent on the manufacturer involved. To assist in levelling the playing field over time, the FIA introduced the ADUO [Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities] programme late last year. It allows for various mechanisms to be applied should one or more manufacturers find themselves trailing behind its rivals, with the FIA to review the situation after six, 12, and 18 races of the record-equalling 24-grand prix calendar. Tombazis is confident such a plan will not lead to walk-outs. Explaining the application of ADUO, speaking exclusively to RacingNews365 , Tombazis said: "We measure the performance of the power units through various means, in a very robust way, averaging three batches of six races each. "The program is called ADUO, and on that basis, people who are more than two per cent below on internal combustion power, or four per cent or six per cent, gradually receive more of those benefits. "Those benefits translate to more available dyno hours, more homologation opportunities, and an incrementally higher cost cap. "We believe that, in a cost cap reality, it is necessary because, otherwise, if you start behind, you will be condemned to an internal misery. "We also have a plan to give a cost cap discount, let's put it that way, if you have serious reliability issues, because these power units are very expensive tools. "You can imagine, if you start popping engines, left, right and centre, that within half a season you've exhausted your cost cap, you suddenly have no more money left, and you're in deep trouble, and then you're left with no option but to leave the sport. "Clearly, we don't want to ever have a situation where these power unit manufacturers feel compelled to leave the sport because they don't have any hope of ever being competitive. That would totally negate the whole purpose of them entering the sport." FIA dismiss BoP Tombazis feels the measures in place are more appropriate for F1, rather than trying to apply any kind of 'balance of performance', which would likely be viewed as artificial and unfair. Tombasiz is expecting a degree of catch-up, certainly from the new PU manufacturers, but with ADUO in place, they are being afforded every opportunity for parity. "I do stress that with all of what I've said, I would very, very strongly defend against the words 'balance of performance' or anything like that," he said. "Ultimately, it has to be remembered that the cars competing on the track are all operating under the same technical regulations. "There are no artificial ways to give more performance to one or the other. They all have the same regulations. It's just that some, if they're starting behind, have some catch-up opportunities. "Let me also say that, in Formula 1, with both chassis and engine, there's a huge amount of know-how, accumulated experience, accumulated knowledge, infrastructures, everything that makes it extremely difficult for a newcomer to be quickly competitive. "You're really starting behind, and it's been one of the objectives to enable newcomers in both teams and power units."

2026-01-27T15:49:00+01:00 2026-01-27T18:22:41+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lewis-hamilton-looks-on-as-charles-leclerc-gives-new-ferrari-gp-circuit-debut-watch Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Ferrari officially commenced its test programme on Tuesday at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya. After the launch of the SF-26 at Fiorano on Friday, when Lewis Hamilton initially took to the wheel before Charles Leclerc followed suit later in the day, it was the Monégasque who was afforded the first opportunity to put the car through its paces at a grand prix track. As Hamilton looked on, Leclerc at least had a dry track to conduct a few laps before a switch to Pirelli's wet-weather tyres as the rain set in late morning. After lunch, Hamilton later took over from Leclerc, although the seven-time F1 champion also had to contend with a wet track. Leclerc, Hamilton and Red Bull's four-time F1 champion Max Verstappen were the only drivers who took to the circuit, with the remaining teams opting to stay dry and withhold running until later in the week  You can check out how Leclerc fared in the video below!  2016156993464254912 The Prancing Horse stretches its legs in Barcelona! 🐎 Ferrari lap the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for the first time this year 💨 #F1 pic.twitter.com/xLPKEA7ahp — Formula 1 (@F1) January 27, 2026

2026-01-27T15:05:00+01:00 2026-01-27T18:22:32+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-f1-2026-debut-plans-put-on-hold Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com McLaren has confirmed a further delay of the shake-down of its MCL40 to RacingNews365 . Team principal Andrea Stella declared last week that the team would conduct a filming day, when 200 kilometres are allowed, on the opening day of the private, five-day test at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya. Although the majority of the teams conducted meaningful running on Monday, with the likes of Mercedes and Haas clocking 154 laps apiece, McLaren did not run. On Tuesday, the inclement weather, with rain hitting the track mid-morning and continuing into the afternoon, meant McLaren continued keep its MCL40, which is due to run in an interim test livery, under wraps. With rain again forecast for Wednesday, there is a question mark hanging over the team and whether it will finally run, or whether it will wait for the better weather forecast for Thursday and Friday. 

2026-01-27T14:10:00+01:00 2026-01-27T15:58:48+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-prepared-for-sleepless-nights-in-monumental-f1-challenge Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has insisted that the Austrian outfit is prepared for some "sleepless nights" in the opening rounds of the 2026 season, due to the "monumental" challenge of being its own power unit supplier. For the start of the new power unit regulations, Red Bull, with technical support from Ford, has taken on the huge task of designing and developing its own F1 engines, which will also power sister outfit Racing Bulls. It is a challenge that could see Red Bull face a very difficult season, particularly given its inexperience in engine development compared to the likes of Ferrari, Honda, and Mercedes. Becoming a power unit supplier has turned Red Bull into a fully fledged factory operation, but Mekies has insisted that the size of the project at hand cannot be overlooked. However, the team boss also feels that it is a challenge Red Bull is capable of meeting, but only if it manages its expectations. "On the other hand, again, this is something that only Red Bull can do," the Frenchman stated to De Telegraaf .  "That also means that we have to temper expectations in the first part of the season. We have to make sure we get the chassis and the engine going.  "After that, you will see that we will make progression. At least I hope so, but this team has always proven that over the years. "You have to look at it this way: the magnitude of this challenge is monumental. To develop your own engine from scratch, you shouldn't underestimate that.  "If you think we are immediately on the same level as the manufacturers who have been doing this for 90 years, that's not going to happen." Red Bull set for 'headaches' Becoming an engine manufacturer in F1 is a task that will require immense patience from the Milton Keynes-based outfit, particularly as it deals with failures for the first time. Red Bull did run on the first day of testing in Barcelona, with Isack Hadjar posting the quickest lap time, but Mekies, speaking before the test, knows the team will face some long nights. "We expect the first few months to be tough," added Mekies. "And that we will have headaches and sleepless nights, and that sometimes we will have trouble getting the car out of the garage.  "All true, but we also believe that we have the right people, the right partners and the right facilities to find our way up. Be patient and give us time." 

2026-01-27T13:30:00+01:00 2026-01-27T18:21:57+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-and-charles-leclerc-alone-as-wet-weather-strikes-barcelona-test Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc found themselves alone on circuit on the second day of pre-season testing in Barcelona, with wet weather playing its part. Ahead of the second of five days getting underway at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, several teams confirmed they would not run due to rain being expected for much of the day. Local forecasts proved accurate, as rain began to fall halfway through the morning session, during which only Red Bull’s Verstappen and Ferrari’s Leclerc took to the circuit. It marked Verstappen’s first running in the RB22 and Ferrari’s first action of the test so far, having sat out the opening day. A red flag was required in the opening minutes after the four-time world champion slid into the gravel, before safely returning to the Red Bull garage. Aside from that, Verstappen had completed 24 laps by 12:30 local time (CET), with his best known time being a 1:20.0 before the rain fell. As for Leclerc, good mileage was completed despite the mixed conditions, with him having completed 45 laps in the same period as Verstappen, although his best time was a 1:20.8. Rain is expected to continue throughout the afternoon, with the RacingNews365 liveblog aiming to keep you as up to date as possible.

2026-01-27T13:15:00+01:00 2026-01-27T15:58:37+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/f1-2026-pre-season-barcelona-test-weather-update Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com In testing in Barcelona in late January, there was always going to be the prospect that at least one of the five days would be disrupted by the weather, and that has certainly proven to be the case. Despite the forecast, only Red Bull's Max Verstappen and Ferrari's Charles Leclerc ventured out at the Circuit de Catalunya on Tuesday, initially in dry conditions before switching to wet-weather tyres after the rain struck late morning. Should the duo opt to run again after the lunch break, it appears as if they will continue on the intermediates, as the forecast for the afternoon is for continual showers. Looking ahead to the remainder of the week, Wednesday appears as if it will again be disrupted as a mix of drizzle and light rain is on the cards throughout the day. That will leave teams facing question marks over whether to run again or not. At this stage, Thursday and Friday are looking favourable, with the possibility of the odd shower in the morning for the former, and although overcast for the latter, it is set to remain dry throughout. For those teams that ran on Monday, it would appear ideal that they hold fire to get the best of the track on Thursday and Friday. Red Bull, however, faces a decision, after running on Monday with Isack Hadjar and with Verstappen on Tuesday, as to which of the remaining days it will run again for the third and final day, with teams only allowed to take to the track for three of the five days.  

2026-01-27T12:40:00+01:00 2026-01-27T15:58:21+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/sergio-perez-spies-positive-from-early-cadillac-f1-issues Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Sergio Perez has admitted Cadillac faced various issues as it made its first test appearance in Barcelona on Monday. However, the 36-year-old is content with the challenges appearing early on so they can be ironed out ahead of the season-opening round in Australia. Cadillac donned a largely black livery as it took to the circuit in Barcelona to mark its on-track debut ahead of its maiden season. The car was driven by Perez's team-mate Valtteri Bottas in the morning, before Perez took over duties in the afternoon. The team reportedly completed fewer than 50 laps throughout the day as Perez acknowledged that it hit various difficulties during the test. “It's always challenging when there is a massive rule change,” Perez said.  “To get laps in is the main objective. We are just getting some laps on the board, which was promising.  “We had a lot of issues today, which is good. It's our first day, so it's been positive in that regard - you want all the problems to come now. “Hopefully the next couple of days can be a lot smoother for us.” Cadillac have two more days this week to choose from to collect further data ahead of the next two test sessions in Bahrain in February. When asked for what Cadillac should expect for the rest of the upcoming week, Perez said: “Just trying to maximise everything.  “Everything has been running a little bit too smoothly at the moment, just trying to get laps in which I think is going to be the priority going into the coming days. “That will be the main thing.”

2026-01-27T11:45:00+01:00 2026-01-27T18:22:05+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/f1-teams-missing-en-masse-in-barcelona-as-max-verstappen-and-charles-leclerc-handed-free-track Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com If we look at who has been on track for the second day of F1 pre-season testing in Barcelona, the list is particularly short. Only two drivers were able to clock any laps at the Circuit de Catalunya before the expected rain arrived, namely Red Bull's four-time F1 champion Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc in his Ferrari. Verstappen did not have the best of starts, however, suffering a trip into the gravel on his first lap, sparking a brief red flag as he was able to continue to the pits before moving on with his programme. Given the forecast for the day, Mercedes confirmed 20 minutes before the start that it would not run. Haas announced 14 minutes after that it would not be on track, although adding that this was planned as it was "focusing on all the data gathered yesterday". There was also no sign of Audi, Racing Bulls, Alpine and Cadillac emerging from the garage, whilst it was already known that Aston Martin and Williams are not in attendance, with the former hoping to take part on Thursday. The biggest question mark hangs over reigning constructors' champions McLaren. The team had expressed its intention to take to the track for the first time today, but it looks set to be stymied by the weather, which is poised to continue into tomorrow. As for the only two drivers who did take to the circuit, Verstappen and Leclerc posted times in the 1:20s, good enough for a spot in the midfield on Monday.

2026-01-27T11:29:00+01:00 2026-01-27T13:14:17+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/aston-martin-bolster-f1-line-up-with-two-driver-extensions Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Aston Martin has announced it is continuing its collaboration with Stoffel Vandoorne and Jak Crawford this year. Vandoorne, a former F1 driver for McLaren, has carried out reserve driver duties at Aston Martin over the last several years. His most recent outing with the team came at the end of year test from Abu Dhabi in 2025. The Belgian driver will be on hand to take over driving duties should Fernando Alonso or Lance Stroll be unavailable during the year. Jak Crawford, a former member of the Red Bull junior team, joined up with Aston Martin in 2024. The American will remain in the position of third driver this year. Crawford had two free practice outings with the Silverstone-based squad in 2025 before partaking in the season-ending young driver's test. https://x.com/AstonMartinF1/status/2016089019889729594 Momentum continues. Together. Stoffel will remain in his role as Simulator, Test and Reserve Driver in 2026, while Jak continues as the team’s Third Driver. pic.twitter.com/jr62p97i0w — Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team (@AstonMartinF1) January 27, 2026

2026-01-27T11:05:00+01:00 2026-01-27T13:13:50+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/f1-banks-latest-incredible-powerhouse-partner Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Formula 1 has unveiled its latest partner, adding to its burgeoning portfolio. The sport has stepped into the world of banking, confirming Standard Chartered as its official wealth management and corporate investment banking partner in a multi-year deal. In a statement, F1 said the announcement "builds on Formula 1’s unprecedented fan and commercial growth with 827m fans worldwide. "It will bring to life unrivalled experiences, with the bank operating in nearly all markets where F1 hosts races, with enhanced trackside activations for its clients and guests." Standard Chartered will also support F1 Academy by helping to "advance the development of female talent and skills across motorsport, both on track and beyond". On the deal, F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali said: “I am thrilled to welcome Standard Chartered, an incredible financial powerhouse, as a new partner to Formula 1. "We are both truly global in nature, sharing fantastic locations around the world with the desire to drive performance and create experiences that excite people and bring them together. "With Standard Chartered’s support for F1 Academy, I can’t wait to have them join us in the paddock and see what we can achieve together." Expressing obvious pride in joining forces with F1, Roberto Hoornweg, CEO of corporate and investment banking with Standard Chartered, declared that the sport "shares our relentless commitment to high performance, innovation, a world-class client experience, and distinctive global connectivity". He added: "F1’s footprint reflects our own cross-border network, with our presence in 19 out of 21 F1 race markets and many other countries where clients enjoy watching one of the most exciting, fastest-growing sports in the world."  

2026-01-27T10:38:00+01:00 2026-01-27T18:21:47+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-causes-early-red-flag-at-barcelona-testing Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Max Verstappen caused the first red flag of the second test day from Barcelona as the Dutchman made his first appearance behind the wheel of the RB22. His new team-mate Isack Hadjar drove the car on Monday as the shakedown test officially got underway ahead of the new season. Tuesday morning was a quieter affair in Barcelona, as only Red Bull and Ferrari took to the track in the opening stages. However, the session was interrupted slightly after Verstappen caused the first red flag of the day. According to reports, the four-time champion slipped off the circuit at Turn 5 but was able to continue and return to the pit lane. It prompted a red flag of some five minutes before the cars were declared free to leave the pit lane once again. Red Bull is the only team thus far confirmed to run on both Monday and Tuesday - meaning they can run just one more day this week.

2026-01-27T10:30:00+01:00 2026-01-27T13:13:37+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/george-russell-delivers-pretty-impressive-verdict-as-new-mercedes-era-begins Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com George Russell has stated he found the opening day of on-track action in Barcelona “pretty impressive” as a new era of F1 got underway. Barcelona is hosting the first pre-season test of the year, with teams allowed to choose three days this week to run their cars. Mercedes was one of seven teams to take to the track on Monday, with Kimi Antonelli tackling morning duties before handing over to Russell in the afternoon. Russell clocked 95 laps for the Brackley-based squad, with the team totalling over 700km during the first day. With this year's power units undergoing significant change this year, Russell has been left impressed by their early performance. “It’s amazing just to be back out driving again,” Russell said.  “I think at the end of the year everyone’s looking forward to a break, but then after a week or two you’re raring to go again. “There was obviously a lot of anticipation for these new power units, and so far, just generally on the whole, the amount of power they give is pretty impressive.  “I think for all the cars I was watching today, with all the different power units, it’s probably the quickest I’ve ever seen an F1 car pass here in Barcelona, so that was pretty exciting to see. “And the cars, you feel it being smaller, you can feel that weight reduction compared to previous years, so I think from that aspect as well it’s gone in a good direction.” George Russell impressed by F1 rivals Also joining Mercedes on the track were debutants Cadillac and Audi, as well as Red Bull's brand new in-house built engine. Ahead of the new era, it was speculated that the sport could see 2014-esque breakdowns, which saw very limited running when the turbo-hybrid units were first introduced. But Russell admitted to being wowed by the efficiency of other teams at such an early stage of the season. “For sure, we’re very pleased with the day, but I was pretty impressed with a number of other teams, to be honest,” he said. “You see the Red Bull-powered teams’ brand new power unit, they’re like a brand-new team from a power unit side, and they had a really smooth day with two cars. “Audi had some good laps in there as well, and I think Haas did the most laps of everyone with a Ferrari engine.  “It’s not quite 2014 vibes of half the grid is breaking down and having loads of issues – I think Formula 1’s evolved so much since then and the level’s just so high. “From every single aspect, it was pretty impressive to see all the teams on the whole having a lot of laps under their belt on day one.”

2026-01-27T09:55:00+01:00 2026-01-27T13:13:19+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/isack-hadjar-reveals-surprise-after-red-bull-f1-debut Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Isack Hadjar has admitted he was surprised by how much mileage Red Bull was able to clock up during the opening day of pre-season testing. Hadjar was behind the wheel of the RB22 in Barcelona on Monday as the Milton Keynes-based squad used one of its three days this week to collect data. It is believed the Frenchman tallied up over 100 laps during the day as he prepares for his first season with the team. The test also marked the debut of Red Bull's own in-house engine, built in collaboration with Ford. Although revealing that there were minor issues during the day, Hadjar was impressed by how much running he was able to get through.  “It was pretty productive,” Hadjar said.  “Surprisingly, we managed to do a lot more laps than we expected. Everything went pretty smooth.  “We had only minor issues, so it's quite impressive, considering it's our first day with our own engine. It was definitely smooth. “I couldn't have prepared the year better, so I'm happy to have at least a very good first day to pay that off.  “But we are definitely not done with the work.” The cars have undergone significant changes this year in both the power unit and aerodynamics departments. Offering his early verdict on the cars, Hadjar said: “It's definitely a lot less load in general.  “It's a bit more predictable compared to the previous generation of cars.  “They are more simple. It's easier to play around with them.  “On the PU side, there are a lot more options for the driver to play with. I already started to work on it, so that was very interesting.”

2026-01-27T09:38:00+01:00 2026-01-27T09:46:05+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lola-declare-new-formula-e-direction-after-major-partner-split Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lola has decided to split from technical partner ABT at the conclusion of the current Formula E season, in favour of the team being run fully in-house from the start of the Gen4 era next season. The partnership between the British manufacturer and the German motorsport giant only began towards the end of 2024, when Lola entered the all-electric series. The opening 18 months of Lola's time in Formula E have proven extremely difficult, with drivers Lucas di Grassi and Zane Maloney often finding themselves outside the points. To date, Lola's best result was a surprise podium for Lucas di Grassi last season in Miami, where Formula E just so happens to be returning this weekend—albeit at the Miami International Autodrome rather than the Homestead-Miami Speedway. It was always known that the first two seasons of Lola's existence in the championship would be a challenge, given the vast experience and knowledge its opponents have with Gen3 machinery. For Lola, the real focus is on its Gen4 car, which has already been involved in both private manufacturers' tests ahead of the introduction of the new car next season. In a statement released by the outfit, team principal Mark Preston said: "With the continued growth of the organisation, long-term commitment to Formula E and additional projects in the pipeline, Lola Cars has made the decision to consolidate its Formula E operations in-house at our Silverstone HQ. "This will enable us to streamline activities, increase expertise for upcoming projects and better drive innovation through motorsport. ABT were our partner of choice to operate the team as we entered the all-electric racing series, with vast experience and technical expertise within Formula E. "We’d like to thank them for all of their hard work and dedication during our first two seasons in the sport and look forward to continuing to collaborate with them for the remainder of Season 12."

2026-01-27T09:00:00+01:00 2026-01-27T19:23:52+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/live-2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-2 Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The F1 2026 season officially got underway earlier this week as Monday in Barcelona marked the first event of the year. The behind-closed-doors test allows teams to carry out running as they collect data on their new cars. Lap times are largely irrelevant at this stage of the year as teams rack up mileage and an initial understanding of how the cars are behaving on the track. While F1 is restricting as much access to this test as possible, RacingNews365 will do our best to keep you informed about what is happening in Barcelona! Below, you can follow live updates as day 2 from the Spanish track takes place!

2026-01-27T08:10:00+01:00 2026-01-27T13:12:50+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/audi-issue-fresh-fia-plea-over-alleged-engine-trick Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Audi has issued a renewed call to the FIA to take action over the alleged power unit compression ratio trick ahead of the new season. This year sees the introduction of brand new power units as part of a major regulation overhaul, which include a boost in electrical output and the removal of the MGU-H component. However, the build-up to the new season has already sparked controversy as it has emerged that Mercedes and Red Bull have managed to operate their power unit at a higher figure than the 16:1 compression ratio mandated. It is a significant part of the combustion process of the engine, and could offer a strong lap time boost. A meeting between the manufacturers and the FIA was held last week, however the matter was not resolved. Audi technical director James Key has stated the German manufacturer holds trust that the governing body will reach the right conclusion. “We have to, as we do, trust the FIA with making the right decisions here,” Key told media including RacingNews365. “It's new regs, you’ve got to have a level playing field. “If someone came up with a clever diffuser and you said it's not the right thing to do, no one else can have it, but you can have it for the rest of the year. It doesn't make sense. We'd never accept that. “If it's sort of bypassing the intent of the regulations, then it has to be in some way controlled.” Key suggested the season would be a write-off for some teams if the FIA allows the increased compression ratio to be used throughout the year. “We trust the FIA to do that, because no one wants to sit a season out if you've got a blatant advantage that you can do nothing with in a homologated power unit,” he said. “For us, hopefully, the FIA will make the right decisions.”

2026-01-27T07:20:00+01:00 2026-01-27T09:48:08+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/ferrari-downplay-f1-2026-expectations-ahead-of-development-rush Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur is expecting F1 teams to undergo a “huge rate” of car development this year as more is discovered regarding the 2026 regulations. The challengers this year have been built under a fresh set of rules, with major changes being made to both the aerodynamics and the power unit. Ferrari enter the season hoping to challenge at the front of the grid and improve on a disastrous 2025 season from which it emerged winless. Having launched its car last week, Vasseur noted it is too early to rate Ferrari's chances ahead of the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix in March. “Honestly, it's far too early [to talk] about expectations,” Vasseur said. “We are there to work, to develop, to improve. We'll see where the situation is in Melbourne. “But it's a very long way until Melbourne. It was an important milestone to put the car on track without any issue. This is good, but we have a long way. “The rate of development will be much higher this season [from] what you saw last year or the year before. “It means that nobody knows what the situation will be in a couple of weeks. We have to do our best to continue to be able to collect data, to develop the car and to be focused on ourselves.” The Barcelona shakedown test this week marks the first chance teams have to collect data from their new cars. Vasseur asserted the pecking order at the season-opening round in Australia will not tell the full picture of the season as he anticipates teams will dramatically improve their cars over the course of the year. “We'll see about the performance when we're in Melbourne,” he said. “But Melbourne won’t be the end of the championship. “We’ll have a huge rate of development. On aero, we are still doing an important step each week, and this is true for us, it’s true for everybody. “Let's keep the focus on ourselves. Let's try to do a good job to develop the next couple of weeks and over the season. “But it's too early for expectations.”

2026-01-27T06:30:00+01:00 2026-01-27T08:06:59+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-targeting-michelin-meal-with-new-power-unit-ingredients Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull Powertrains director Ben Hodgkinson has stated the engine department has all the ingredients to be successful in F1. The team has constructed its own power unit for the season ahead, marking the first time in its history it has done so. Hodgkinson is overseeing the project, having previously worked at Mercedes High Performance Powertrains. With over two decades of experience building F1 engines, Hodgkinson asserted he knows the Red Bull Powertrains set-up has the makings of a successful organisation.  “You never really know where you are,” Hodgkinson told media including RacingNews365 . “I've described it before to some of my team-mates that it's like a 400 metre race. And I use 400 metres, because a 400 metre race is basically like a sprint. “So it feels like a sprint, but you're doing it in a stadium on your own, with no crowd, in a different country to all of your competitors. All I know is that we're running as fast as we possibly can. “I've got a lot of experience in designing F1 engines, and I've been in it since the V10 days, so I know what a good company looks like. “I've got the unique opportunity here to try and shape what the perfect power unit manufacturer needed to look like - and Red Bull have been very accommodating in terms of what facilities we've got.” The Red Bull engine project has been in the works for several years, with the power unit making its on-track debut on Monday morning in Barcelona. Hodgkinson praised the individuals involved in the programme as he looks to a 'Michelin meal' with the ingredients produced. “I'm pretty confident with our facilities,” he said. “The people we've got are amazing. There's something really unique about a group of people who are part of a startup. “They're almost like pioneers. The ownership and dedication I can see in every department is just incredible. “We’ve got all the ingredients, but whether it will turn into a Michelin meal, we'll have to see, won't we? We've definitely got all the ingredients. “I'm confident that we've built the right company and got the right people. But confidence is something that somebody who is about to lose will have, so you're not going to get more from me than that.”

2026-01-26T22:00:00+01:00 2026-01-27T08:07:02+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/isack-hadjar-sets-early-barcelona-pace-as-aston-martin-confirm-testing-delay-racingnews365-review Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Isack Hadjar unofficially topped the afternoon session on the opening day of the official shakedown test in Barcelona, according to local reports. With live timing cut following the morning session and security high, reports of track action have been minimal. READ MORE: 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 1 unofficial afternoon results Aston Martin reveal Barcelona F1 test plan after delay fears Aston Martin has confirmed that it will not complete three days of running at this week’s official shakedown test in Barcelona. RacingNews365 discovered last week that the Silverstone-based team was facing potential delays with its AMR26, which will not be seen on track until the latter stages of the test. READ MORE: Aston Martin reveal Barcelona F1 test plan after delay fears Mercedes rivals handed stark warning after Kimi Antonelli issues high praise Kimi Antonelli has handed Mercedes' rivals an early warning after praising the initial performance of the Silver Arrows' power unit. The 19-year-old was the first driver to exit the pit lane at the start of the opening day of the official shakedown test in Barcelona, before handing the W17 over to George Russell. READ MORE: Mercedes rivals handed stark warning after Kimi Antonelli issues high praise Esteban Ocon left in awe of 'unbelievable' Haas: 'People have climbed mountains' Esteban Ocon was left in awe of the "unbelievable effort" Haas has made to get into a decent position for the Barcelona test, sharing that the team has "climbed mountains." Haas opted to run on the opening day of the five-day test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, with Ocon getting his chance behind the wheel of the VF-26. READ MORE: Esteban Ocon left in awe of 'unbelievable' Haas: 'People have climbed mountains' Red Bull surprise with aggressive design for Max Verstappen Ahead of its on-track debut on Monday in Barcelona, Red Bull shared the first real images of its 2026 F1 challenger, the RB22. The car was driven on the track by Isack Hadjar, with Max Verstappen due to jump behind the wheel later in the week. READ MORE: Red Bull surprise with aggressive design for Max Verstappen Investigation launched in to FIA Foundation charity An investigation has been launched into the FIA Foundation, the charitable arm responsible for funding road safety research and motorsport safety initiatives. The Charity Commission has opened the inquiry as it responds to concerns over governance and potential conflicts of interest between the Foundation and its parent organisation, the FIA, which governs F1 and many global motorsport categories. READ MORE: Investigation launched in to FIA Foundation charity

2026-01-26T20:00:00+01:00 2026-01-27T13:12:04+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/liam-lawson-hands-red-bull-major-boost-after-promising-opening-day Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Liam Lawson has handed Red Bull a major boost following the opening day of the official shakedown test in Barcelona, revealing that its power unit felt "very good". The New Zealander spent the entire opening day of the five-day test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya behind the wheel of Racing Bulls' VCARB 03. Lawson clocked 88 laps across the day, with a best lap time of 1m 21.513, gathering valuable data for Red Bull's sister team. The data was also useful for Red Bull itself, with Racing Bulls being powered this season by the Milton Keynes-based operation. Unfortunately, the 23-year-old did cause a red flag towards the end of the morning session; however, he has insisted that the stoppage was purely a "safety precaution" rather than a problem with the car. It is a season of great unknowns for Racing Bulls, given that it is being powered by Red Bull, which has no previous experience of being an F1 engine manufacturer. Based on the opening day of running, though, it is so far, so good for both Racing Bulls and Red Bull's engine. Asked how the Red Bull power unit felt, Lawson told F1TV : I mean, it feels good, honestly, so far today. But it's very hard to tell. So the main thing is reliability.  "At the moment, we've done a good amount of laps today, only a few little things [went wrong]. And honestly, the only issues we really had today were safety precautions, not really any actual issues.  "So yeah, so far, honestly, on the power unit side, has been very, very good. But again, hard to know compared to everybody else where we're at, but definitely we'll keep learning over the next few days."

2026-01-26T19:30:00+01:00 2026-01-27T09:47:49+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mercedes-rivals-handed-stark-warning-after-kimi-antonelli-issues-high-praise Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Kimi Antonelli has handed Mercedes' rivals an early warning after praising the initial performance of the Silver Arrows' power unit. The 19-year-old was the first driver to exit the pit lane at the start of the opening day of the official shakedown test in Barcelona, before handing the W17 over to George Russell. In cold conditions, Antonelli completed 55 laps, the best of which was a 1m 20.700. He very much enjoyed being back behind the wheel and gaining an understanding of F1's new power unit regulations. "Yeah, it was a very interesting morning—very nice to be back in the car, of course," Antonelli told F1TV . "It's a massive learning experience. "We've been trying to tune the power unit and the car. Obviously, this afternoon the car has improved a lot.  "It's a constant learning process, so the most important thing is trying to get as much running as possible, in order to tune the power unit and the car in the best way possible." Heading into the new regulations, Mercedes is very much considered the early favourite, given how dominant it was when the turbo-hybrid engines were introduced back in 2014. The opening day in Barcelona painted a very positive picture for the Brackley-based team, with George Russell completing an additional 93 laps in the afternoon. Speaking specifically about the performance of Mercedes' engine, Antonelli praised the Silver Arrows for the job they have done, adding that the car already feels good. "I have to say the team has done a really good job on the power unit side," added Antonelli. "Drivability, which was a big question mark, seems to be good so far. "So obviously, it's early days, and that's why, with the running, we will discover a lot more about the car and the power unit. We'll be able to see where it's lacking and where it's actually good. But so far, the package is feeling good."

2026-01-26T19:00:00+01:00 2026-01-26T20:04:22+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/esteban-ocon-left-in-awe-of-unbelievable-haas-people-have-climbed-mountains Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Esteban Ocon was left in awe of the "unbelievable effort" Haas has made to get into a decent position for the Barcelona test, sharing that the team has "climbed mountains." Haas opted to run on the opening day of the five-day test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, with Ocon getting his chance behind the wheel of the VF-26. In the morning session, the Frenchman completed an impressive 66 laps, with a best lap time of 1m 24.520, gathering significant data for the American outfit. In the afternoon, Ocon improved to set a 1m 21.301 and completed around 150 laps. It was a positive start to testing in Barcelona for Haas, showcasing its new Toyota-inspired livery as part of the duo's strengthening relationship. According to Ocon, the team had the car ready to leave the garage immediately on Monday morning, despite only being at Fiorano last Saturday for Oliver Bearman to complete an initial shakedown. "I think, first of all, an unbelievable effort from the team, really, to put the car down at 09:20 this morning," Ocon told F1TV after the opening morning session.  "The car was ready at nine, but we were waiting on better track conditions and a few things that we wanted to be perfect before we went out. "But yeah, from Fiorano testing with Oliver [Bearman] to here, people have really climbed mountains to make this car work. And it’s been really good. So we are dealing with the plan and learning as we go. "Of course, it's a busy programme for the day, so it’s going to be difficult to complete it, but for the first real day of driving, I think so far it’s going really well. And yeah, we will keep pushing to make sure that all the details are covered. "We have more days than normal, which is a good thing."

2026-01-26T18:11:00+01:00 2026-01-27T13:11:47+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-1-unofficial-afternoon-results Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Isack Hadjar unofficially topped the afternoon session on the opening day of the official shakedown test in Barcelona, according to local reports. With live timing cut following the morning session and security high, reports of track action have been minimal. However, according to Soy Motor, Red Bull's new signing went fastest with a 1m 18.159, with George Russell in second on a 1m 18.696 — the only other driver in the 1m 18s. Alpine's Franco Colapinto completed the top three at the end of day one, while Sergio Perez completed his first laps for Cadillac at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.  Esteban Ocon reportedly completed around 150 laps, with Mercedes completing the second most mileage. Day two gets underway on Tuesday morning at 09:00 local time (CET). Check out the unofficial afternoon results below! 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 1 afternoon unoffiical results

2026-01-26T17:30:00+01:00 2026-01-26T18:13:29+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/valtteri-bottas-confirms-barcelona-test-opening-day-cadillac-issues Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Valtteri Bottas has confirmed that Cadillac suffered "some issues" during the opening session of Formula 1's official shakedown test in Barcelona. Each team is permitted to run for three days across the five-day test, with F1's newest outfit having opted to use the opening day at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Bottas was behind the wheel on Monday morning and unofficially completed 33 laps, setting a best lap time of 1m 24.651s. Despite Bottas’ best lap being almost six seconds adrift of Red Bull’s Isack Hadjar, ultimate lap times are irrelevant for this week. For Cadillac, the five-day Barcelona test is about gathering as much data as possible for its debut season in the championship. Bottas revealed that issues were experienced throughout the morning for the American squad, but the same could be said for the other teams that opted to run on the first day. Assessing his morning session, Bottas said: "It was cold in the early morning. It's quite hard to get the tyres to work here, as we know.  "But yeah, as the temperature picked up, things got a bit better, but we had some issues throughout the day. Like I said, it's de-bugging. That's why we're here.  "And it seems like every every team had some issues. So yeah, it's just now really figuring those out and then getting more and more running each day. But like I said, just great to be here and in the car."

2026-01-26T16:54:00+01:00 2026-01-26T18:13:36+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/aston-martin-reveal-barcelona-f1-test-plan-after-delay-fears Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Aston Martin has confirmed that it will not complete three days of running at this week’s official shakedown test in Barcelona. RacingNews365 discovered last week that the Silverstone-based team was facing potential delays with its AMR26, which will not be seen on track until the latter stages of the test. Aston Martin revealed in a statement that it will be at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya this week but will not run until Thursday at the earliest, with the intention of also running on Friday. This means that only two days of running at best will be conducted by the British outfit, despite three being allowed for each team. An Aston Martin statement read: "The AMR26 will be in Barcelona later this week for its shakedown. Our intention is to run Thursday and Friday." https://x.com/AstonMartinF1/status/2015813301482008616?s=20 An update on Barcelona Shakedown. pic.twitter.com/dm9IWh2d32 — Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team (@AstonMartinF1) January 26, 2026

2026-01-26T16:10:00+01:00 2026-01-26T16:03:45+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-risk-as-pressure-awaits-for-ferrari-and-lewis-hamilton-2 Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com unjdYMQkeU8

2026-01-26T16:00:00+01:00 2026-01-29T21:45:53+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-risk-as-pressure-awaits-for-ferrari-and-lewis-hamilton Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Join RacingNews365's Ian Parkes and Nick Golding for the first podcast of 2026! The duo look at some of the biggest topics ahead of the new season, including Max Verstappen remaining with Red Bull and the pressure which awaits Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari. Rather watch the podcast? Then click here!

2026-01-26T15:30:00+01:00 2026-01-26T17:01:39+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/investigation-launched-in-to-fia-foundation-charity Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com An investigation has been launched into the FIA Foundation, the charitable arm responsible for funding road safety research and motorsport safety initiatives. The Charity Commission has opened the inquiry as it responds to concerns over governance and potential conflicts of interest between the Foundation and its parent organisation, the FIA, which governs F1 and many global motorsport categories. The Foundation now operates under an immediate temporary protective order, preventing trustees from entering certain transactions without prior written approval from the Commission.  The inquiry specifically examines whether conflicts of interest have been properly managed, particularly regarding grants awarded by the charity. While the Commission emphasises that opening an inquiry does not constitute a finding of wrongdoing, the protective order suggests serious concerns about the charity's administration. The Foundation carries out duties such as motorsport safety research, funding programmes that have contributed to advances in circuit design, car safety systems and protective equipment used across racing categories.  The inquiry will examine the extent to which trustees have complied with their legal duties regarding administration, governance and management. It comes after FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem took over as chair of the foundation last year, replacing head of Motorsport UK David Richards.

2026-01-26T14:50:00+01:00 2026-01-27T08:06:33+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-surprise-with-aggressive-design-for-max-verstappen Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Ahead of its on-track debut on Monday in Barcelona, Red Bull shared the first real images of its 2026 F1 challenger, the RB22. The car was driven on the track by Isack Hadjar, with Max Verstappen due to jump behind the wheel later in the week. Verstappen will be hoping the car gives him an opportunity to fight for a fifth F1 title after narrowly missing out on the championship last year to Lando Norris. The fresh images of the RB22 challenger already show clear differences from the first renders of the car that were revealed at its launch event earlier this month.  The most noticeable changes relate to the sidepods and side protection next to the cockpit.  In particular, it can be seen that the volumes of the sidepods, especially at the rear, have been greatly reduced, creating a distinct 'coke bottle' shape. This is particularly beneficial for guiding airflow towards the rear of the car. To achieve this, an internal aerodynamic layout with a multi-layer placement of radiators and heat exchangers has clearly been chosen.  This is a concept that Red Bull has previously applied to the RB20, albeit with varying results.  Also of particular interest is the air guidance integrated into the rather large cockpit protection area, shaped as a mini-bazooka. The rear opening blows air into the same area where Ferrari has the by-pass duct . In addition, it is noteworthy that these additional, forward-facing openings have allowed the power unit's airbox to remain relatively compact, despite being larger than 2025.  It is, however, smaller than that of sister team Racing Bulls. Based on the first images from Barcelona, it seems likely that not only Red Bull, but also other teams will introduce new parts in the coming days and during testing in Bahrain.  Still, the Red Bull already looks like a car with very elaborate characteristics in several areas, so future updates are unlikely to change the overall picture drastically.

2026-01-26T14:00:00+01:00 2026-01-26T17:01:48+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-unleashing-most-powerful-tool-in-new-cat-and-mouse-f1-game Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com McLaren has described how its "most powerful tool" is being unleashed to aid its learning in a "cat and mouse" game with F1 rivals. For F1's new era in 2026, McLaren is continuing with a customer supply of Mercedes High Performance Powertrains (HPP) engines, with all teams trying to grasp how best to deploy the higher battery power across the season. In 2025, the batteries produced 120kw of power, but for 2026, this has been nearly trebled to 350kw, with the batteries also now producing an equal 50-50 split in power output with the internal combustion engine.  There were fears last season that the 50-50 split could leave a driver running out of electrical energy mid-straight and reverting to ICE power only if the supply was mismanaged, as McLaren's performance technical director Mark Temple detailed how the team is working to understand how best to deploy the reserves, and what this means for rivals. "As soon as the driver is involved, our most powerful tool is the simulator," Temple, who previously served as race engineer to Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, told select media, including RacingNews365.  "Because there's an amount that we can do to brief the drivers, to help them understand the principles around which the 2026 rules create around the need to use your energy, if you like, more intelligently and more strategically around the lap, and the need to harvest energy more consciously. "A lot of the management is done through the power unit control, but there are also some elements within the drivers' control which they need to understand and use optimally, and the simulator is by far and away the best tool for that. "We've been working with HPP and been able to recreate some of those behaviours with the test, and then race drivers to do simulations of Australia, Bahrain, etc., to understand the different challenges for a qualifying and race lap, or even different race situations. "The most interesting aspect and the thing which is hardest to simulate is the overtaking and attacking and defending scenarios, where previously you had DRS, and there wasn't too much of a tactical element to how you used the driver controls. "Whereas, in 2026, the amount of energy you have will be much more of a factor in strategy, so if you think of Bahrain, where you've got three long straights one after the other from Turn 13 to Turn 4, the amount of energy you use on each of those straights will be a really interesting challenge for the drivers, particularly in the beginning.  "I think while we understand: 'If I do this, [there is the question of] how does my competitor react? There is a bit of cat and mouse there, so that will be really interesting and exciting as we can't predict that completely."

2026-01-26T13:03:00+01:00 2026-01-26T20:04:56+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-1-morning-results Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Isack Hadjar has ended the first morning of the Barcelona pre-season shakedown on top of the timesheets. The Frenchman clocked a 1:18.835 to put a strong gap of over one-and-a-half seconds over the rest of the field. Of course, at such an early stage of the season, lap times do not count for much as teams will spend this test collecting initial data on their cars, which have been built under a fresh set of technical regulations. Two red flags were deployed during the session after Franco Colapinto and Gabriel Bortoleto stopped on track with seperate issues. The morning also saw the debut of Cadillac with Valtteri Bottas behind the wheel of the challenger. See the morning results from the test below! 2026 F1 Barcelona Pre-Season Test - Day 1 morning results

2026-01-26T12:25:00+01:00 2026-01-26T17:01:31+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/barcelona-2026-pre-season-test-update-f1-awakens-from-hibernation-surprising-red-bull-shakedown Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The first pre-season test of 2026 is officially underway in Barcelona. Although the track is open for five days this week, the teams are allowed three days of running, all of which is behind closed doors as fans and media are excluded. The test is necessary to evaluate the new cars, sporting new power units and associated aerodynamics. Two further three-day tests in Bahrain follow in February. So what do we know about the first day of testing so far? Isack Hadjar gives RB22 the spurs Red Bull immediately completed its first laps with the RB22. The Milton Keynes-based team chose to test day immediately, with, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Isack Hadjar at the wheel. The Frenchman drove the first installation laps around Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya. Max Verstappen is looking on for the time being, but will, of course, be given plenty of opportunity to put his new car through its paces. For Red Bull, the test is crucial, especially since it has built its own engine, developed in collaboration with Ford, for the first time. Williams and Aston Martin woes While most of the teams are already in Barcelona or starting their program from Tuesday, that is not the case for Williams and Aston Martin. RacingNews365 has previously reported that Williams is skipping the entire test, related to crash test failures on a new nose box, whilst Aston Martin has opted not to run for now. It is unlikely the Adrian Newey-led team will start its programme until Wednesday. Different program for Ferrari and McLaren In addition to Williams and Aston Martin, Ferrari and McLaren are also running a different program. Ferrari indicated at the launch and shakedown at Fiorano on Friday that it will begin its test week on Tuesday. Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc both conducted a shakedown last week after the car's unveiling, providing them with an early feel. McLaren will appear at the Barcelona circuit on Monday, but only for a short shakedown/filming day, allowing no more than 200km of running, and on special Pirelli tyres for such an event, rather than the regular rubber. F1's defending drivers' and constructors' champions will start its week of testing on Tuesday or Wednesday, dependent on weather conditions - with rain expected on Tuesday - and how the shakedown goes. New teams eager to join Beyond Williams, Aston Martin, Ferrari and McLaren, all the teams were in action on Monday, including Audi and Cadillac. Audi took over Sauber and is appearing as a factory team for the first time in F1, while Cadillac is new to the sport. It was, therefore, a major coup for both teams to be out on track on the first day. Racing Bulls, Mercedes, Haas and Alpine also started the closed test on Monday morning. Kimi Antonelli took a seat behind the wheel of the new Mercedes, widely regarded as the favourite for this year. Mercedes flew out of the starting blocks when the V6 engine was introduced in 2014, going on to dominate the sport for years. Has it again built the best power unit this year? What fans can expect How private is a private week of testing? F1 has promised that it will share some photos and videos during the test. The teams also have permission to take limited videos of the cars in the pit lane and on the track. So here and there, footage will appear. Fans are also reliant on spy shots. Although the Barcelona circuit is secure, some know how to find secret spots and take images of the cars. So no live footage, but certainly some nice pictures.

2026-01-26T11:30:00+01:00 2026-01-26T14:06:00+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-moves-step-closer-to-nurburgring-24-hours-race Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com A key obstacle standing in the way of Max Verstappen having an outing at the Nurburgring 24 Hours has been removed. All previous NLS rounds before the famous endurance race clashed with F1's compact schedule. Verstappen has long voiced his interest in taking part in the 24-hour Nurburgring race and had his first official race outing last year, winning a four-hour event alongside team-mate Chris Lulham. However, the 24-hour event requires a mandatory preparation race, all of which originally fell alongside a grand prix weekend. In a schedule update, the second NLS round has been shifted back one week and now sits between the Chinese and Japanese F1 events. This now provides Verstappen the option to take part in the race ahead of the May 16-17 24-hour race. “We are shifting gears for the sport and our region,” a statement from Nurburgring NLS read.  “To maximize international participation, NLS2 has been moved forward to March 21. “Why we move: This adjustment leverages a gap in the F1 calendar between the Grands Prix in China and Japan.  “By aligning with the international racing schedule, we enable top-tier drivers to compete in the NLS. This move increases our global reach to the benefit of all teams, participants, and the entire Nürburgring region.”

2026-01-26T11:00:00+01:00 2026-01-26T14:05:56+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/audi-make-first-driver-development-signing-immense-potential-of-a-future-star Ian Parkes info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Audi has signed the first rising star to its newly-founded driver development programme. The German manufacturing giant, that makes its F1 debut this season, announced the introduction of its programme last week, under the guidance of three-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner, and former F1 driver, Allan McNish. It has now signed Freddie Slater to its roster, describing the 17-year-old Briton as a "karting and junior formula sensation", and "one of the most exciting rising stars in motorsport". Slater will now compete in F3 this year with Trident Motorsport, under the guidance and support of the Audi Driver Development Programme. After winning the CIK-FIA Karting World and European Championships, Slater continued his rise in single seaters with victories in the UAE and Italian F4 championships. Most recently, he impressed in the Formula Regional European Championship, securing multiple victories and rookie of the year honours on his way to the title. Describing Audi's decision to be the first driver selected to the programme as "an incredible honour", Slater said: "Audi is a brand with a legendary motorsport history, and to have their trust and support at this crucial stage of my career is a dream come true. "Joining forces with a respected team like Trident Motorsport for Formula 3 and having the backing of Audi Revolut F1 Team is a massive opportunity. "I am fully focused on working hard and making the most of this pi votal step towards my goal of reaching Formula 1." Allan McNish, director of Audi's Driver Development Programme, claims that Slater has "the immense potential of a future star". McNish added: "His track record is remarkable, but more importantly, he possesses the focus, determination, and willingness to learn that are essential for reaching the pinnacle of our sport. "He is the ideal candidate to be the first signing of the Audi Driver Development Programme, and we are committed to providing him with the tools, mentorship, and support he needs to succeed as he steps up to Formula 3 with Trident Motorsport. "This is the first step in building our future on and off the track."

2026-01-26T10:32:00+01:00 2026-01-26T14:05:53+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/first-three-teams-hit-track-in-f1-2026-pre-season-testing Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com On-track action for the 2026 F1 season began on Monday morning as the green flag was waved at the end of the pit lane in Barcelona. All F1 teams bar Williams are set up in the Spanish paddock as part of the first pre-season test of the year this week. Held over five days, each team allocates three days in which they will take to the track where they are free to conduct as much running as they like. The outing got underway on Monday, with Mercedes being the first team out on the track. The Brackley-based squad was closely followed by Audi who is embarking on its debut F1 season. Finally, Alpine made it onto the circuit to complete the first trio of teams to get the year underway. See the video of the three cars emerging from the pit lane below! https://twitter.com/F1/status/2015710762925174995 And the 2026 Shakedown is under way... 👀 Three teams waste no time in taking to the track! #F1 pic.twitter.com/nGNiHns8cs — Formula 1 (@F1) January 26, 2026

2026-01-26T09:55:00+01:00 2026-01-26T14:05:50+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/why-f1s-barcelona-2026-pre-season-test-is-not-on-tv Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Formula 1 pre-season testing for the 2026 season kicks off today in Barcelona with five days of running ahead.  Of these five days, teams will be limited to just three days allowed on track, which they are able to individually choose depending on what best suits their testing plans, with Ferrari confirming it will not be running for the first time until Tuesday, 27th, February and then again on Thursday, 29th, with the third day still to be decided. But unlike in previous years, when F1 pre-season testing has been televised, running in Barcelona will not be broadcast live.  Live timing will not be available, with it being up to each team to decide what information, such as the number of laps completed and any lap-times, they release to the public.  In the UK, Sky Sports F1 will be producing a nightly round-up of the action, but there will otherwise be little information from the private shakedown at the former Spanish Grand Prix venue, but why is this? Why F1's Barcelona 2026 pre-season test is not on TV During the last massive change to F1 power units in 2014, testing was the usual free-for-all, and the sight of multiple teams stranded in the garage suffering from teething troubles caused embarrassment.  So, in order to avoid as much negative press as possible whilst teams and power unit suppliers ensure the basic fundamentals are actually working as intended, the Barcelona test has been declared as a 'behind-closed-doors' outing.  The same was declared for the first 2022 test when the ground effect machines were introduced, and the nasty surprise of porpoising was discovered. Essentially, F1's Barcelona 2026 pre-season test is not being televised to allow teams to complete their first serious running away from the media spotlight before heading to Bahrain's two three-day outings in February.  At least nine of the 11 teams will be running in Barcelona at some point through the week.  RacingNews365 reported last week that Williams will not be taking part due to delays in passing the crash tests, whilst Aston Martin is set to not be on track until Wednesday at the earliest. 

2026-01-26T09:38:00+01:00 2026-01-26T20:06:52+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/live-2026-f1-barcelona-pre-season-test-day-1 Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The F1 2026 season is officially underway! This week, the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya hosts the first pre-season test of the season. Held behind closed doors, there is no broadcast or timings of the outing available, however we will do our best to bring you all of the information from the test as possible. The F1 regulations have received a major shake-up this year, meaning the cars are likely to be driven in a much different fashion than usual. But what clues from the season will emerge from the first test? We may soon find out! Follow the first day of F1 pre-season testing below!

2026-01-26T09:00:00+01:00 2026-01-26T14:25:27+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/mclaren-unveil-f1-livery-for-barcelona-shakedown-test Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com McLaren has unveiled the livery it will use during the Barcelona shakedown test this week. The test offers teams a chance to gather some initial data on their new 2026 cars which have been built under a brand new set of technical regulations. McLaren enter the year looking to defend its double championship success from last year, triumphing in both the drivers' and constructors' standings. The Woking-based squad is due to reveal its season livery on February 9, ahead of the following test in Bahrain. In Barcelona, McLaren will run a black-inspired livery, offering little hints into what its true design for the year ahead may look like. However, it is once again likely to be papaya coloured, which has become traditional for the team in the modern F1 era. McLaren will field Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri for a fourth consecutive year, making it the joint-longest uninterrupted line-up on the grid alongside Aston Martin. The MCL40 car will hit the track for the first time in Barcelona this week, although McLaren is yet to confirm its run plan as teams are required to select three out of the five available days to operate the car. View images of the McLaren test livery below!

2026-01-26T08:45:00+01:00 2026-01-26T14:05:46+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-offer-first-glimpse-at-new-f1-2026-car Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull has revealed images of the RB22 challenger ahead of its first on-track shakedown in Barcelona this week. The Milton Keynes-based squad became the first team to host a launch event earlier this month as it unveiled its new-look livery from Detroit. Red Bull enter the upcoming season with its own power unit for the first time in its history, which it has built in collaboration with Ford. The car is set to hit the track for the first time this week as the first pre-season test gets underway, as the team opted not to hold a shakedown run prior to the test. As Red Bull prepares for the outing, it has now unveiled fresh images of the RB22 challenger. The car is a successor to last year's entry, which saw a dramatic upswing in performance in the second half of the year, placing intense pressure on McLaren's title push. The season ahead will be Max Verstappen's 11th with the energy drink-backed squad as he aims to clinch a fifth championship with the team. The Dutchman will be joined by Iscak Hadjar, who has received a promotion to the squad following a positive rookie campaign in 2025. Below, you can view images of the official Red Bull car.

2026-01-26T08:20:00+01:00 2026-01-26T09:38:23+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/the-hidden-danger-lurking-in-controversial-alleged-f1-engine-trick Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The thorny issue of compression ratio, and its measurement by the FIA, has not yet been definitively resolved, although single-seater technical director Nikolas Tombazis is optimistic it will be before the season-opener. It has been alleged that Mercedes High Performance Powertrains (HPP) and Red Bull Powertrains (RBPT) have developed a system to potentially run a higher compression ratio than allowed by the rules, so it is worth examining why rivals Audi, Ferrari, and Honda are unhappy.  Essentially, it is claimed that HPP and RBPT will be able to generate a compression ratio of 18:1 through the use of heat-expanding metals when the car is on track, although this has yet to be demonstrated in the specific conditions of using an F1 power unit.  A higher compression ratio results in more engine power due to an increase in the thermal efficiency of the engine - more energy being unleashed from the same amount of fuel.  In simple terms, it must by compressing the air-fuel mixture before combustion, a higher compression ratio will create a more powerful explosion, allowing the pistons to move faster, increasing power. A higher compression ratio means that the air-fuel mixture is compressed into a smaller space, creating higher temperatures and pressures. A cleaner combustion is thus reached, creating higher thermal efficiency - the conversion of heat into mechanical energy.  With the higher ratios, during the expansion (combustion) phase, the gases created in combustion can expand over a greater distance, leading to more mechanical energy, with a more efficient combustion cycle, thus increasing pressure and improving torque, especially at low and medium speeds. A good rule of thumb is that each additional percentage point of compression ratio can generate an estimated 3-4% increase in power. However, compression ratio cannot be increased indefinitely.  In gasoline engines, too high a ratio carries the risk of uncontrolled detonations before the optimum combustion point - known as knock. This can cause major damage to the engine. For this reason, high-octane fuels are used to manage temperatures, wit the FIA's 16:1 limit for compression ratio safer than the 18:1, with the sophistication of the fuel mixtures also important in how they can delay the detonation point. It makes the additional challenge facing the F1 fuel suppliers with the fully sustainable mix for 2026 all the more important, especially with the now 50-50 split in power generation between the internal combustion engine and battery power.

2026-01-26T07:25:00+01:00 2026-01-26T14:06:07+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-boss-hails-max-verstappen-importance-he-gives-us-a-triple-advantage Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has hailed the importance of Max Verstappen, noting that he gives the Austrian outfit a "triple advantage." Verstappen remaining with the Milton Keynes-based outfit for the start of the new power unit regulations is a major boost for Red Bull, given the conversations that were held with Mercedes. The Dutchman’s future was a significant talking point for the first half of the 2025 season, with George Russell having confirmed at the Austrian Grand Prix that his own contract talks with Mercedes had been delayed by discussions between the Silver Arrows and Verstappen. However, ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, Verstappen put all the rumours and speculation to bed by stating that he would remain with Red Bull for 2026. Despite this, performance clauses reportedly remain in his contract, allowing an exit before his deal concludes at the end of the 2028 season. Mekies has already acknowledged that the 28-year-old sticking with Red Bull is a "risk," given the new regulations but also the fact that the team is producing its own power unit for the first time in its history. There is a huge unknown surrounding just how competitive the RB22 will be, with a true answer unlikely to emerge until the opening rounds. Nevertheless, Verstappen will be with Red Bull for the start of F1 and the team’s new era, with Mekies addressing exactly what the four-time world champion brings to the outfit. "I think we have a triple advantage with Max," Mekies told De Telegraaf . "First of all, because of his commitment.  "Number two is his feeling in the car and the extra brain capacity he has in the car to deal with all those issues. "Finally, Max can push the team in the right direction like no other, which helps us get even more out of the car. He thus gives us a significant boost."

2026-01-26T06:30:00+01:00 2026-01-25T15:53:00+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/how-f1-pre-season-testing-works Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com 2026 F1 pre-season testing is more important than ever before, given the scale of changes made to cars over the winter. For the new campaign, the single-biggest overhaul in regulations has taken place, with changes to both the engines and chassis being introduced.  The new power units now feature beefed-up electrical systems, with 350kw of power up from the 120kw in 2025, with power now set to come via a 50-50 split between the internal combustion engine and batteries.  On the chassis, active aerodynamics have been introduced.  Three pre-season tests are planned, with one in Barcelona scheduled between January 26th - 30th, before heading to Bahrain for two three-day tests in February.  The Barcelona test is a private, behind-closed-doors shakedown, with teams permitted to run for three of the five days, for nine days total before the season-opening Australian GP on March 8th.  View the schedule for the first week of testing below! The article continues below. F1 Barcelona pre-season testing schedule How Barcelona testing works Essentially a private shakedown, teams will be able to run for three of the five days in Barcelona, and it is up to them to decide which three. For example, Ferrari will be running on Tuesday for the first time and Thursday as well, meaning it still has to decide between Wednesday and Friday.  During the hours when the track is open, teams can complete any number of tests and do whatever they want, although the first days in Barcelona are likely to focus on systems and engine checks before any serious aerodynamic work is completed later in the week and in Bahrain.  Most teams who have launched their cars so far have completed shakedowns, but for the drives, Barcelona will be the first time to get up to speed with the new demands of the power units, a change Lewis Hamilton has branded the biggest in his career. What are the aero-rakes? Pre-season testing is the time to spy cars looking a bit unusual with the aero-rakes bolted to the side as cars pound around. Essentially, they are aero-sensors, and are tasked with collecting data about airflow to see if the team's wind-tunnel and CFD simulations are translating into the real world.  What is the function of flow viz paint? In addition, we often see teams using some kind of paint on the car. That, too, is intended to learn more about the airflow, and ensure the air passing over the car, is in fact, doing what is expected of it.  What is sandbagging? Teams will always try to keep their true pace under wraps and a secret for as long as possible.  Disguising your true pace is known as 'sandbagging.' Essentially, it is running the car full of fuel and in lower engine power settings not to give an indication of the true pace, although through GPS tracking, rivals can usually work out who is doing what.  Towards the end of testing, if a team has had a poor test, it will often complete a 'glory run', which is taking all of the fuel out and turning the engine up to steal the headlines with 'Team X fastest in F1 pre-season testing.'

2026-01-26T06:00:00+01:00 2026-01-25T18:55:23+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-formula-e-miami-e-prix-time-schedule Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Formula E is back this weekend for the third round of its season, the Miami E-Prix! After racing at the Homestead-Miami Speedway last year, Formula E has changed locations for its Miami round, moving to a venue very familiar to motorsport fans. For the first time competitively, Formula E will race this weekend on a shortened version of the Miami International Autodrome, located at the iconic Hard Rock Stadium. It is the same circuit that hosts Formula 1’s Miami Grand Prix; however, Formula E will use a shorter layout (see bottom of article). This weekend’s layout consists of 14 corners and measures 2.32km in length. It features three heavy braking zones, but is likely to produce very quick lap times. Formula E used the venue last year for its inaugural Evo Sessions, which saw an array of influencers and celebrities drive the current Gen3 Evo cars. Interestingly, the layout for this weekend’s race is shorter than the one used for the celebrity event. Nick Cassidy enters the third of 17 rounds as the championship leader, following a podium in the São Paulo season opener and a first victory for Citroën in Mexico City a fortnight ago. He holds a four-point lead over Jake Dennis, whose Andretti outfit will celebrate its home race this weekend. Reigning world champion Oliver Rowland is a further two points adrift in third. Want to see the start times? Check out the schedule for Miami below! 2026 Formula E Miami E-Prix - Time Schedule

2026-01-25T22:00:00+01:00 2026-01-26T08:08:01+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/aston-martin-facing-f1-testing-delay-as-porsche-wins-delayed-daytona-24-hours---racingnews365-review Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Aston Martin set to face key F1 delay ahead of Barcelona pre-season test Aston Martin is understood to be facing a key delay in its preparations for the private behind-closed-doors test in Barcelona. READ MORE: Aston Martin set to face key F1 delay ahead of Barcelona pre-season test 2026 Daytona 24 Hours - results Check out the full race results from the 64th running of the Rolex 24, otherwise known as the Daytona 24 Hours at the legendary Daytona International Speedway in Florida, United States. READ MORE: 2026 Daytona 24 Hours - results Porsche survives late scare from former F1 driver to win historic Daytona 24 Hours The #7 Porsche Penske Motorsport car has won a third straight Daytona 24 Hours, surviving a late scare from a former F1 driver. READ MORE: Porsche survives late scare from former F1 driver to win historic Daytona 24 Hours Daytona 24 Hours resumes after six-and-a-half hour delay Running resumed at Daytona after a near six-and-a-half hour delay. READ MORE: Daytona 24 Hours resumes after six-and-a-half hour delay  Daniel Ricciardo recalls Max Verstappen conversation before major F1 change Daniel Ricciardo gave Max Verstappen permission to take his race number of #3 for the 2026 season. READ MORE: Daniel Ricciardo recalls Max Verstappen conversation before major F1 change

2026-01-25T20:30:00+01:00 2026-01-26T08:08:04+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/daniel-ricciardo-reveals-when-max-verstappen-asked-for-permission-change-f1-number Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Daniel Ricciardo has revealed that Max Verstappen first asked for his permission to take his old F1 race number at the 2025 United States GP. For 2026, Verstappen can no longer run the #1 as reigning world champion, and was set to revert back to his permanent race number of #33, but a change in the sporting regulations for this season allowed drivers to change their number, if they so wished. Verstappen became the first driver since permanent numbers were introduced in 2014 to change, and swapped his #33 for the #3 Ricciardo had run.  However, under the rules, a number is still assigned to a driver for two full seasons after their final race, which in Ricciardo's case was the 2024 Singapore GP, meaning the #3 was not eligible to come back into the open pool until the 2027 season.  However, given Ricciardo has now retired from racing, he gave Verstappen his blessing, with the Dutchman set to run the #3 in the coming. Recalling the conversation, Ricciardo revealed Verstappen first mentioned the idea in Austin last season.  "I got to see Max recently, and with the number three thing, it is quite cool and a cool story for us," Ricciardo said. "Also, for the fans of F1 who supported Max and I when we were team-mates. So when I caught up with Max in Austin [in 2025], he mentioned that he wanted to take the number three. "Of course, I was very, very happy to say yes because otherwise he would have had to wait one more year, so it is a pleasure for me to pass that number on to him."

2026-01-25T19:42:00+01:00 2026-01-26T08:07:57+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/porsche-survives-late-scare-from-former-f1-driver-to-win-historic-daytona-24-hours Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com A final-hour attack by one-time F1 driver Jack Aitken was not enough to deny the #7 Porsche Penske Motorsport car a historic third-straight win in the Daytona 24 Hours. The race, which was effectively suspended under a full course yellow period for over six-and-a-half hours between 00:47 and 07:19 Eastern Time due to heavy fog over Daytona, with the #7 crew of Felipe Nasr, Julien Andlauer, and Laurin Heinrich leading. In the final hour, Nasr was behind the wheel of the #31 Cadillac Whelen, driven by former Williams F1 racer Aitken, who launched a major assault on the leader after the final round of pit-stops.  Nasr had a moment off track coming out of the pits for the final time as Aitken pressured his fellow ex-F1 driver, including going side-by-side into the braking zone for Turn 1 as he harried the leading 963 machine. Nasr ultimately brought the Porsche home ahead in the thrilling chase as the #7 became the first car to win the Daytona 24 Hours for three straight years.  Aitken's charge brought second for Cadillac, with the #24 BMW was steered to third place overall by Dries Vanthoor as the #6 Porsche 963 recovered from contact in the third hour of the race to take fourth place. The car lost pace in the closing hour as the scale of the damage took its toll, but Kevin Estre brought it home fourth.  The victory is a record-extending 21st victory for Porsche in the Daytona 24 Hours, as Nasr, the only driver to be a part of the #7 crew for all three wins, joined the likes of Brian Redman, Andy Wallace, Derek Bell, Juan Pablo Montoya, Scott Dixon, and Helio Castroneves as a three-time winner. Porsche's victory comes after it announced last year that it was withdrawing from the World Endurance Championship and would not be competing for overall victory at the Le Mans 24 Hours. Full and complete results for the 2026 Daytona 24 Hours are available to view here. The report continues below. Thrilling finish in GTD In the final minutes of the race, a thrilling battle played out for class victory in GTD between the #57 Winward Racing and #44 Magnus Racing entries. Phillip Ellis and Nicki Thiim were the respective drivers, with the two making contact at over 180mph in the final 10 minutes, battling for the class win. Ultimately, Ellis stayed ahead to claim the honours. In LMP2, the defending class winners, the #22 United Autosports finished fourth as the #04 CrowdStrike Racing by APR machine claimed victory. The GTD-Pro class was won by the #1 Paul Miller Racing entry, narrowly beating the #75 Express crew, featuring two-time IndyCar champion and 2018 Indy 500 winner, Will Power.

2026-01-25T19:42:00+01:00 2026-01-26T14:06:04+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/2026-daytona-24-hours-results Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The #7 Porsche Penske secured a third consecutive overall victory in the Daytona 24 Hours, following an intense late battle with the #31 Cadillac Whelan.  In a race which featured a record-long full course-yellow for almost seven hours due to fog during the night, it culminated in an incredible final few hours. Felipe Nasr held on for Porsche, while Jack Aitken had to settle for second in the #31. Completing the GTP podium and third overall in the race was the #24 BMW M Team WRT, making it three manufacturers in the top three. In LMP2, the #04 Crowdstrike by APR secured an impressive class victory, ahead of the #43 and #343 Inter Europol Competition cars. In GTD Pro, the #1 Paul Miller Racing BMW secured the top GT class win, ahead of the #75 75 Express Mercedes and the #48 Winward Racing Mercedes. And finally, in the bottom GTD class, the #57 Winward Racing claimed class win, ahead of the #44 Magnus Racing and the #27 Heart of Racing Team. Check out the full results below! 2026 Daytona 24 Hours - GTP 2026 Daytona 24 Hours - LMP2 2026 Daytona 24 Hours - GTD PRO 2026 Daytona 24 Hours - GTD

2026-01-25T19:05:00+01:00 2026-01-25T19:43:58+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/racing-bulls-recall-nightmare-in-arvid-lindblad-protection-plan Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane has recalled how the outfit handled Isack Hadjar’s Australian Grand Prix "nightmare" last year, in its plan to protect and support Arvid Lindblad. At just 18 years old, Lindblad finds himself on the 2026 Formula 1 grid after a successful promotion from Formula 2, with the young Briton set to partner Liam Lawson. Red Bull has put significant time and effort into Lindblad’s rapid progression, having only moved into single-seater racing in 2022, with his first full-time single-seater campaign coming a year later. Much is expected of Lindblad, who is the only rookie on the grid this year. He has taken the spot of Hadjar, who finds himself alongside Max Verstappen for his second F1 campaign following a tremendous rookie season. Hadjar’s rookie year started in the worst way possible, after crashing on the formation lap in Melbourne, putting Racing Bulls on the spot to offer him immediate support and protection. He went on to make huge strides, with Permane recognising that Lindblad will need looking after to a certain degree, especially when things go wrong. Asked how much the team needs to protect and support Lindblad, Permane told talkSPORT : "Yeah, we need to be there for him. We need to be there to put our arm around him if and when things go wrong. "We will be there to support him and to make sure that nothing gets on top of him or destroys him too much. "We saw it with Isack last year, in the first race in Melbourne. It was a nightmare for him, but we also saw that with some support and care, and building him back up, two races later he had one of the races of his life in Japan. "So I think these guys are strong — these kids. They’re not normal 18-year-olds. You know, they’ve come through junior formulas, karting, and that sort of thing, and they know what they’re doing. So no, we’ll be there to look after him."

2026-01-25T18:10:00+01:00 2026-01-25T17:13:43+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/alpine-to-fix-a-million-details-in-f1-recovery-bid Fergal Walsh info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Alpine managing director Steve Nielsen has highlighted that a “common sense” approach should be taken by the team as it looks to improve its F1 form in the coming years, and fix what he has described as "a million details". The Enstone-based squad has suffered from an unstable management structure over the past few years, involving various leadership changes. At present, Flavio Briatore is the de facto team boss at Alpine and has Nielsen at his side. The Briton returned to the squad late last year following a stint at the FIA. Nielsen was previously part of the team as its sporting director during its championship-winning years with Fernando Alonso in 2005 and 2006, when it was known as Renault. When asked what had impressed him on his return to Alpine, Nielsen told select media, including RacingNews365, at the end of last season: “I mean, it’s a cliché, but it’s a racing team.  “It's full of people with a racing spirit. It’s had mixed results recently, but I think there’s a passion and a will to put it back to where it has been in the past.  “The dedication is huge, from the top to the bottom of the company.” Alpine call for patience Alpine endured a difficult 2025 F1 campaign, finishing rock-bottom in the constructors' championships. As it looks to make steps up the order in the coming years, Nielsen labelled patience and common sense as the key to recovery.  "It’s my job to coordinate that, strengthen the areas that are good, re-strengthen the areas where we are weak, and bring some common sense and consistency to the management," he said.  "There have been too many changes over the last few years at Enstone.  "I don't criticise any of my predecessors, but it's time for patience, common sense, and consistency.  "We want the team to be better, and patience and Formula 1 don't go well together, but that’s the task.  "We have to spend the next few years building, and it’s a slow, grinding process. It’s F1 - there are no magic bullets.  "You just have to fix a million details - in places, people. More than anything, it’s a people business. I've kind of relearned that lesson, if you like.”

2026-01-25T17:16:00+01:00 2026-01-25T19:44:12+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/aston-martin-set-to-face-key-f1-delay-ahead-of-barcelona-pre-season-test Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Aston Martin is set to face a significantly disrupted start to 2026 F1 pre-season testing, with a delay to its programme in Barcelona, RacingNews365 understands. Sources with direct knowledge of the situation have confirmed that the Silverstone-based team will not be in action during the first two days of the private behind-closed-doors test in Spain, and that their "most optimistic" scenario is to be on track on Wednesday, 28th January for the first time.  It is understood that minor delays in several areas have contributed to the team missing the first two days of the five-day test.  When contacted by RacingNews365, a team spokesperson stated that the team would be confirming its run plan for Barcelona at the start of the new week.  It is understood that equipment and team personnel have already arrived in Barcelona ahead of the start of the test on Monday.  Although the test is five days in total, each team will only be permitted to run for three days, in any order they choose, which, when combined with the two, three-day Bahain tests, means there is a total of nine days of testing on offer. Earlier in the week, RacingNews365 revealed that Williams will skip the Barcelona test altogether with delays in passing the crash tests on its new FW48 machine.  Aston Martin has long-targeted 2026 as its best chance to challenge for the F1 championships and race wins, with owner Lawrence Stroll embarking on a heavy-investment drive. A brand-new state-of-the-art factory has been built at Silverstone, with a works Honda engine deal being secured for the new rules.  The team also managed to lure Adrian Newey to spearhead the project as technical leader from Red Bull, with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll continuing as the driver pairing, and is the most experienced line-up in F1 history with a combined 614 starts.

2026-01-25T16:20:00+01:00 2026-01-25T18:08:52+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/lewis-hamilton-eyes-first-2026-f1-test-after-making-winter-break-changes Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Lewis Hamilton has revealed that he is "massively excited" for next week’s first official test ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season, after making several changes during the short winter break. The seven-time world champion enters the new power unit regulations on the back of a disastrous first campaign with Ferrari — the worst of his incredible F1 career. It left the 41-year-old in desperate need of the winter break, despite it being one of the shortest in the history of the sport. During his time away over the winter, Hamilton focused on completely resetting and ensuring he has the "right energy" around him, even if it meant "removing things." In addition to making changes himself, Ferrari recently announced that Hamilton would have a new race engineer for the upcoming season with Riccardo Adami moved into a different role. He drove Ferrari’s new SF-26 at its Fiorano test track on Friday following the car’s unveiling earlier in the day, with the veteran very much ready to get his 20th season underway. Looking ahead to the Barcelona test, Hamilton told F1 : "I mean, if you probably look at all my other interviews over the years, I’d never say that I get excited, but I’m massively excited — and I think it’s okay to say that, yeah, I’m excited for new beginnings. "It’s been such a focus on resetting and having a good break. Even though it was the shortest break we’ve ever had, I would say it was just what was needed.  "Yeah, I think it’s about undoing, learning new patterns, undoing old ones, removing things that don’t serve me or bring the right energy, and making sure you’re showing up in the right way. "So I’m excited about the first test. Obviously, in the shakedown I don’t get to push it, but it feels cool at Fiorano. Next week, we’ll start to try and stretch the legs and see what this new generation of car is going to bring to all of us. "And then it’s kind of like not knowing what other people have — what cars, what tricks other people may or may not have, and what concepts, all those sorts of things. I think for us, it’s just about keeping our heads down and focusing on our job."

2026-01-25T15:30:00+01:00 2026-01-25T15:42:37+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/the-new-f1-dictionary-for-2026 Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com With the start of the 2026 season, drivers, teams and fans will have to deal with a completely new vocabulary of buttons, systems and regulations. From "Overtake" to active aerodynamics, from Audi's entry to the compression ratio controversy, the sport is evolving into a new era.  Here are the key terms for the coming years. Overtake The well-known DRS system will be replaced by Overtake Mode in 2026. Unlike the opening rear wing, which offered an aerodynamic advantage, Overtake Mode provides additional electrical power.  The system can be activated when a driver is within one second of the car ahead, similar to how DRS was allowed to be activated. There is one detection point per circuit. With Overtake Mode, the attacking driver can charge an additional 0.5 megajoules and use it the next lap to attempt an overtake.  This means that the attacking driver has both more total energy available and access to full power at higher speeds than the car in front of him. A significant advantage to enable overtaking manoeuvres. Boost In addition to Overtake Mode, drivers will also have a separate Boost Mode at their disposal, a system that operates completely independently of proximity to rivals.  Boost is a button on the steering wheel that delivers the maximum combined power from both the combustion engine and the battery, as long as electrical power is available.  As opposed to Overtake Mode, drivers can use this system anywhere on the track, both for attack and defence. The strategic element is in the timing.  Drivers can decide to deploy the boost all at once for powerful acceleration, or spread the extra energy over several moments in the lap, depending on when they need the extra performance most. This flexibility makes the boost button one of the most versatile tactical tools in the new F1 arsenal. Recharge Drivers can then recharge the battery with Recharge Mode. When the mode is enabled, the battery recharges by the energy released under braking.  This creates an intense task in the cockpit. Drivers must constantly switch between power input, aerodynamic modes and energy from the battery. It becomes a constant dialogue between driver and team via the onboard radio. In early simulations, the battery would be depleted so early on a straight that a driver would have to downshift, but that is not expected to happen. However, speed can be reduced on straights. Straight and Corner Mode In addition to changes to the engine, 2026 also marks the end of the ground-effect era that began in 2022.  The real revolution, however, is in active aerodynamics. Both the front and rear wings get adjustable flaps that can operate in two different positions, available to all drivers on designated straights. In Straight Mode, the front and rear wings are flatter to reduce drag in predetermined activation zones.  This lowers downforce and improves top speed. In Corner Mode, the wings remain in their standard closed position to maintain the higher downforce needed for cornering grip. For wet conditions, there is a partial aero option where the front wing can be in Straight Mode while the rear wing remains in Corner Mode for the needed downforce. The text continues below the image. Compression Ratio While the visible changes draw attention, behind the scenes a technical controversy rages over engine compression ratios.  The 2026 regulations limit the geometric compression ratio to 16:1 from 18:1 in 2025. This reduction was implemented to help new engine manufacturers and align with the transition to sustainable fuels. The critical point: compression ratio is measured statically, not while racing. This measurement approach has generated considerable controversy.  Namely, Mercedes could still reach 18:1 if used without violating regulations. That could yield three to four tenths on a circuit like Australia. So this term will come up often, as other engine suppliers are not happy with it. Ferrari, Audi and Honda are said to have protested to the FIA. So this topic will no doubt be continued... Audi & Cadillac About Audi, that brand will enter F1 as a factory team in 2026 after taking over from Sauber. The team will operate from Sauber's existing headquarters in Hinwil, Switzerland, while Audi has set up a powertrain production site in Neuberg, Germany.  Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto form the driver duo, with Jonathan Wheatley as team principal. Cadillac forms the other, all-new eleventh team. The Cadillac Formula 1 Team, backed by General Motors and TWG Motorsports, received final approval in March 2025 and becomes the first new team since Haas in 2016. The team is led by Graeme Lowdon as team boss and will initially use Ferrari engines while General Motors builds an engine for 2029.  Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez should help Cadillac advance with their experience. Red Bull Powertrains Red Bull Racing is also taking a huge step forward with Red Bull Powertrains, its own power unit to be used from 2026.  Red Bull Powertrains is developing a V6 turbo hybrid powertrain in collaboration with Ford. This is a huge project, with about 700 people contributing to it in Milton Keynes. The question is how competitive Red Bull and sister team Racing Bulls will be, though. They have never driven its own engines before.  Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar should help the team in its biggest challenge to date in the coming years. Arvid Lindblad In the midst of all this technical complexity, there is one driver who is experiencing it all for the first time: Arvid Lindblad, the only rookie on the 2026 grid. The 18-year-old British driver drives for Racing Bulls alongside Liam Lawson. Lindblad earned his seat after just one season in Formula 2, where he finished sixth in the championship with three race wins.  His path to F1 was accelerated by two appearances for Red Bull in 2025 at Silverstone and in Mexico City, where he impressed the team management enough to secure his Racing Bulls seat. Early competitiveness will be challenging, especially since the 2026 season features completely new technical regulations and engines that even experienced drivers will have to get used to. Spanish Grand Prix And as if all these technical changes were not enough, the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix will be held at the Madring for the first time.  This is a street circuit near Madrid, near the IFEMA Exhibition Centre. The circuit covers 5.47 kilometres with 22 corners, including a remarkably long sloping corner, the longest sloping corner on the F1 calendar. The Spanish Grand Prix will take place on Sept. 13 and is the sixteenth round of the season. The European season will officially conclude at the Madring.

2026-01-25T14:35:00+01:00 2026-01-25T15:42:25+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/f1-fans-deal-mercedes-clear-verdict-as-w17-unleashed Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Mercedes’ bold new W17 livery has received strong backing from Formula 1 fans, with 68% of respondents to a RacingNews365 poll expressing approval of its new design unveiled on January 22. Just 32% of voters gave the livery the thumbs down, suggesting the eight-time constructors’ champions have struck the right chord with its 2026 aesthetic, despite early mixed reactions on social media. The W17 marks a striking departure from Mercedes’ traditional silver identity, featuring a predominantly black base complemented by silver and Petronas turquoise accents. A dynamic green flow line sweeps low across the car, while striped detailing on the sidepods has emerged as the livery’s most distinctive — and divisive — feature. While some fans praised the stripes as "a nice upgrade on their classic livery," others compared them unfavourably to Adidas branding or felt the new Microsoft logo placement detracted from the overall effect. The design represents Mercedes’ visual identity heading into F1’s major 2026 technical regulation changes, with team principal Toto Wolff describing the project as demanding “innovation and absolute focus across every area of performance.” George Russell has made clear he expects the W17 will finally allow him to "fight for the title" after years navigating the inconsistencies of the ground-effect era, with the Briton set to lead Mercedes’ charge alongside Kimi Antonelli. The team will hold an official season launch event on 2 February, where Russell and Antonelli will present the car ahead of pre-season testing. Check out the poll results below! Do you like the new 2026 Mercedes F1 livery?

2026-01-25T14:00:00+01:00 2026-01-25T12:52:43+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/pascal-wehrlein-delivers-clear-formula-e-qualifying-stance-it-just-doesnt-matter Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Pascal Wehrlein has delivered a clear stance on Formula E qualifying this season, declaring that "it just doesn’t matter" following the most recent round in Mexico City. The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez had traditionally been one of the toughest tracks to overtake on the Formula E calendar, making qualifying incredibly important. However, changes to the track layout a fortnight ago made overtaking possible, with pack racing taking place to some extent — a first for Mexico City. It rendered qualifying fairly irrelevant, with Nick Cassidy claiming victory from 13th on the grid, while Wehrlein finished sixth after progressing from 11th. Cassidy delivered another energy-management masterclass, though it was a style of victory that had previously never been successful in Mexico City. Both races so far this season have seen drivers make up a huge number of places, with Miami next weekend expected to be no different for the Gen3 Evo machinery. It is something Wehrlein has accepted, with the way Cassidy won in Mexico having taught the German a lot for the title fight. Asked if Wehrlein learnt a lot for the title fight from Mexico City, Wehrlein told RacingNews365 : "Yeah, definitely. I mean, we expected this race to be one of the hardest races to overtake. "Therefore, it should have been one of the most important races to qualify at the front. It turned out that Cassidy won from 13th. "So that only tells you that probably 80% of this season’s qualifying will not matter. It just doesn’t matter." Wehrlein eyes midfield-to-first victory Following the opening two rounds in São Paulo and Mexico City, Wehrlein sits fourth in the drivers’ standings, 17 points adrift of Cassidy. The 2024 world champion is likely to be in title contention, but it is worth noting that he has never won a Formula E race starting from outside the top nine. To become a two-time world champion this season, Wehrlein will likely need to change this, recognising that there are clearly opportunities to win from outside the top 10. "I mean, it’s clear that it’s super tight, and depending on the strategy or how the race is evolving, you don’t need to start at the front," added Wehrlein. "And I think that is something I probably want to do once in a while. We are always good when we’re starting from the front. "There also seem to be opportunities when you are starting outside of the top 10, like in Mexico, when we didn’t optimise that."

2026-01-25T13:40:00+01:00 2026-01-25T19:43:49+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/daytona-24-hours-resumes-after-six-and-a-half-hour-delay-as-porsche-lead Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The Daytona 24 Hours has resumed green-flag running following a six-and-a-half hour delay due to fog in Florida. At 00:47 Eastern Time, the race was placed under the full course yellow due to fog and low visibility, with this continuing for 120 laps until the caution was lifted at 07:19 EST.  That was an official delay of 6hrs:33mins:25s, the longest ever yellow period in the history of the Daytona 24 Hours, in this, the 64th running. Despite the delay, the Porsche Penske Motorsport cars are leading one-two, with the #7 machine, currently driven by Laurin Heinrich leading by a shade under two seconds from the sister #6 car, with Matt Campbell at the wheel. Whilst leading in the first few hours, the #6 sustained floor damage following contact with an LMP2 car, but lucky breaks with FCY periods meant it did not lose laps.  Running third in GTP is currently the #25 BMW of former F1 driver, Kevin Magnussen.  LMP2 is being led by the #8 Tower Motorsports ORECA, with Sebastien Bourdais at the wheel, with the #4 Pratt Miller Motorsports Corvette with Tommy Milner leading GTD Pro.  The GTD Class is being led by the #96 BMW Turner Motorsport entry, with Robby Foley at the wheel.

2026-01-25T13:15:00+01:00 2026-01-25T18:08:34+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-and-isack-hadjar-complete-red-bull-seat-fitting Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar have both completed their seat fittings for Red Bull’s new RB22, ahead of next week’s official shakedown test in Barcelona. The Milton Keynes-based outfit posted two images on social media showing its drivers in the new car for the first time, before setting off to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Next week’s five-day test, in which each team can run for three days, will mark the first running of Red Bull’s new car, with a decision having been made not to perform a pre-Barcelona shakedown. It is a decision that has also been made by McLaren, with the Woking-based outfit not set to begin testing in Spain until either day two or day three. Check out Red Bull's social post below! https://x.com/redbullracing/status/2015379121560293445?s=20 Seats, fitted ✅ Ready for Shakedown 👊 #F1 || #RedBullRacing pic.twitter.com/h8gHlvfmgY — Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) January 25, 2026

2026-01-25T12:55:00+01:00 2026-01-25T16:39:04+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/ferrari-names-biggest-challenge-ahead-of-2026-f1-rules-revolution Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur believes the "biggest challenge" of the 2026 F1 rules reset will be ensuring full integration between all the systems, including the drivers. Both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc got their first taste of the SF-26 on Friday in a shakedown at Fiorano, with the car set to run for the first time during the private Barcelona test on Tuesday, 27th January.  Given the scale of the changes to both the chassis and the power units, Vasseur believes getting all the systems working effectively and efficiently is the overriding challenge facing teams as testing looms. "I think the key to performance will be a good integration between the chassis [and the power unit] and for sure, development will be key," Vasseur told media, including RacingNews365. "Performance in every single area will be key, but at the end of the day, the biggest challenge will be the integration of all the systems together, including the drivers.  "Hopefully, it will be a full reset for them on their approach, which means they will have to completely change the way they have to approach to develop through the weekend, and the way of driving will even be a bit different. "It will be a challenge, and part of our job is to give them good tools to be at their maximum, and it is true that we are all starting from scratch; we are all discovering the challenges. "It is a good feeling because it is our job, our DNA, to challenge this kind of situation, and the drivers are part of the equation. I think it is a very interesting challenge for us and the others."

2026-01-25T12:00:00+01:00 2026-01-25T13:00:02+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/max-verstappen-delivers-warning-ahead-of-major-change-you-cannot-hide-anymore Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Max Verstappen has warned that his GT outfit, Verstappen.com Racing, "cannot hide anymore" as it prepares to field a Pro line-up and fight for overall race victories. For 2026, the four-time world champion’s GT team is set to run a Pro line-up, which will see it compete in the top GT category of whichever championships it enters this year. It represents a significant change for the operation, which has made major strides in GT racing in recent years. Verstappen has also been getting more involved on the driving side of things, having raced at the Nürburgring in 2025. This year marks a period of change for Verstappen, with Formula 1 also introducing new power unit regulations. Red Bull faces the additional challenge of powering itself for the first time, having become an engine supplier. There is much uncertainty over the performance of Red Bull’s 2026 car, although the four-time world champion is opting not to become stressed, with every team in a similar position. Speaking on a Team Redline Twitch stream, Verstappen said: "For myself, I feel good. I’m still very relaxed because you can’t really know at the moment, of course, how competitive you’re going to be. So, yeah, we’ll see. I’m pretty chilled; I don’t stress too much because it’s bad for you, and it’s not going to change the result anyway. "And besides that, yeah, I’m very excited, of course, about the GT3 project as well. I’m trying to invest a lot of time into really making it a success. Also, being a Pro line-up this year, you cannot hide anymore. You need to fight up front — that’s the target. "But of course, with that comes a lot of preparation, which we are in the middle of. And yeah, just trying to keep improving every time we go out with the car. Besides that, of course, the sim racing programme — I’m very excited about that all the time anyway because it’s a big passion of mine. "But at the same time, the guys know what they’re doing. They’re very solid, they’re very strong, and I know that wherever they participate, they’re giving it their very best. So that’s probably, I would say, the most secure part of it all."

2026-01-25T11:05:00+01:00 2026-01-25T11:47:24+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/adrian-newey-branded-a-master-as-bold-aston-martin-prediction-made Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com 1996 F1 champion Damon Hill has branded Adrian Newey a “master” and believes he could lead Aston Martin to the front. Newey joined Aston Martin at the start of March last year as managing technical partner, focusing fully on its 2026 car for the new power unit regulations. His switch to the Silverstone-based outfit followed his departure from Red Bull, where he was responsible for designing all of its race-winning cars. Crucially, Newey’s position at Aston Martin changed considerably at the end of 2025, when it was announced he would become team principal, taking over from Andy Cowell. It is a position the 67-year-old has never held, marking a first for him in what has been a long and illustrious F1 career. Newey has a reputation for producing winning cars, convincing Hill that he could lead Aston Martin towards the front under F1’s new regulations. Asked if Aston Martin could rise to the front, Hill told talkSPORT : "Yes, you could [see a changing of the guard in F1 this year]. I mean, we could see a complete surprise. "Something like when Jenson Button won with Brawn, they surprised everyone because they saw through the regulations. "And the master of seeing through the regulations is Adrian Newey, who's gone to Aston Martin. "He left Red Bull and Max Verstappen behind, and Christian Horner has left that team anyway. But he's gone off to Aston Martin. He's been working on this project now for a good 18 months or so. "So we're sort of expecting him to wave his magic wand over Aston Martin. It could happen."

2026-01-25T10:10:00+01:00 2026-01-26T14:06:16+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/red-bull-make-striking-decision-for-first-2026-f1-test Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Red Bull has selected 18 sets of the C3 soft compound tyre for the upcoming first pre-season test in Barcelona, as confirmed by Pirelli. Ahead of next week’s five-day official shakedown test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Pirelli revealed that the C1 (Hard), C2 (Medium), C3 (Soft), Intermediate, and Wet compounds will be available. Upon revealing the compounds on offer to the teams in Spain, F1’s tyre supplier confirmed how many of each set every team had selected. As first reported by RacingNews365, Williams will miss the test following issues passing the FIA’s mandatory crash tests. The Grove-based outfit released a statement on Friday afternoon confirming it would be absent from Barcelona to continue focusing on preparing its 2026 F1 car. Across the five-day test, the teams present are permitted to run for three days, with McLaren and Ferrari both having revealed they will not start running on the first day. Being the first real running of the cars, each team has its own programme in mind, resulting in huge differences in how many sets of each compound the teams have taken. As mentioned, Red Bull has remarkably opted for 18 sets of soft tyres, one set of mediums, and no hard tyres. Barcelona will see the RB22 on track for the first time, with no shakedown having been conducted ahead of the test — a strategy also taken by McLaren. For Barcelona, McLaren has selected four sets of C1 tyres, 10 sets of C2 tyres, and six sets of C3 tyres. Mercedes has selected the most hard tyres in the paddock for Barcelona, opting for eight sets. Ferrari, which unveiled the SF-26 on Friday before undergoing an initial shakedown, has selected the most C2 tyres, with the Scuderia to receive 12 sets, while no team has opted for more soft tyres than Red Bull. See how many sets of each tyre compound the teams have selected below! Tyre sets selected per team

2026-01-25T09:15:00+01:00 2026-01-25T11:47:11+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/why-eye-catching-mercedes-w17-design-is-legal Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com There has been a heated debate since the unveiling of the 2026 Mercedes W17 about whether a large vertical slot at the rear, near the diffuser, is legal or not. It is worth noting that looking at the 2025 generation of car, slots were present in more or less a similar position on all cars, with the function being to channel the airflow passing centrally through the diffuser, speeding it up and increasing the downforce produced by the floor. The need for this is made all the more important in 2026 owing to the return of the rake, where the rear of the floor is higher than the front, with the requirement for this made redundant in the ground effects era, where downforce was produced by having the entire floor run as low as possible to the track.  Article 3.5 of the technical regulations deals specifically with the floor bodywork.  Paragraphs 3.5.1-3.5.4 refer to the areas where the floor must be located, and that it must be lie fully within the RV-Floor-Body, and that there must be no holes in it when viewed from below to fully obscure the RS-Floor-Body, RV-PU-ICE, and the RV-DIFF.  If it is visible from below, it must lie exactly on RV-Floor-Body, if directly below the RS-Floor-REF and RS-Floor-Step, whilst also having two sections visible in any Z-lane and be fully visible from above or below.  If we exclude, for a moment, the rather cryptic requirements that only indicate which sections of the floor are visible, it is very important to note the requirement which, when viewed from below, the floor must be dark, or essentially an element without holes. Applying this to the Mercedes, it is quite clear that when viewed from below, the floor would simply represent a curvature, a bend in the edge of the diffuser and not a hole passing through its vertical axis.  It is therefore clear that any hole passing through the surface of the floor would be prohibited when viewed from above, but that the Mercedes design is almost a narrowing of the diffuser channel, and thus entirely legal. 

2026-01-25T08:20:00+01:00 2026-01-25T09:53:21+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/exclusive-fia-seeking-black-and-white-solution-to-put-controversial-f1-trick-to-bed Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The FIA is seeking a "black and white" solution to firmly end the growing debate around a controversial alleged F1 engine trick before the start of the season. Over the winter, reports emerged that some power unit manufacturers, namely Mercedes High Performance Powertrains and Red Bull Powertrains, had developed an engine trick to allow them to run an 18:1 compression ratio limit, exceeding the 16:1 limit prescribed in the technical regulations. This would allow teams running those engines to enjoy higher power levels, with the ratio measured at ambient temperatures whilst the car is in the pit-lane. Whilst it is on track, the technology does not exist to measure the limit, meaning that with the potential use of heat-expanding metals, a compression ratio higher than 16:1 could be accessed.  Around Australia's Albert Park, the extra power has been estimated to be worth around 0.3s per lap, or 17.4s in race time over the 58 laps.  On January 22nd, a meeting took place between the power unit manufacturers and the FIA, where, according to a statement, "a discussion on seeking alignment on the methodology of measurement of compression ratios at hot temperatures" was discussed. After the meeting, the FIA's single-seater technical director Nikolas Tombazis spoke exclusively to RacingNews365 on the debate. "I think to probably disappoint slightly, but the meeting, as we said on a few occassions was not a summit meeting where big decisions were made, or intended to be made," Tombazis exclusively told RacingNews365.  "The meeting had a very clear agenda to discuss the technicalities and methodology of measuring compression ratio; it was a purely technical meeting on how it is measured. It was clear before the meeting to all the participants, and made clear during the meeting to one or two who wanted to stray from the agenda, that this was not the forum to discuss exactly what is happening on that topic.  "Once this was made clear, all the participating entities were constructive and talked like scientists and engineers with a problem at hand, not in terms of their opinion about the regulation.  "Now, of course, it is a topic that is attracting headlines, and all I can say is that we absolutely do not want to have a situation where the championship starts, and people are interpreting regulations in slightly different ways." When asked if the alleged compression ratio trick could be considered as a 'loophole', Tombazis replied that the FIA were seeking a firm solution to put the issue "to bed" before the first race. "What exactly a loophole is, is a bit of a discussion," he added. "I don't think there is any discussion of people specifically breaching, as such. Indeed, we don't even know what people's solutions are, so I think there is a bit of some people jumping the gun and making noise. "I would say the word loophole has quite a few meanings, and I think it is fair to say that there are areas in which the rules are not clear to everybody. "The number one objective is to make sure this gets completely put to bed in a totally absolute black and white way before the first race, so we don't have any further discussions." The article continues below.  'None of the FIA's business' As a solution is still discussed, there is the possibility that a team could launch a protest if one is not found by the Australian GP.  As such, Tombazis explained that the FIA was looking to provide "clarity" but had no say in whether a protest was launched by a team.  "When the regulations are new, inevitably, there are different views about certain parts, and compared to past lives, where, let's say, things would end up in a protest and an international court of appeal or something like that. "We aim to provide clarity before, following all of the governance processes there are, but we clearly never have any control over anybody on whether they want to protest or not, but we hope to be able to provide enough clarity so that hopefully, it is not a necessary step.  "But of course, whether a team decides to do that, that is their business; we are still working on what the solution will be."

2026-01-25T07:58:00+01:00 2026-01-25T09:53:11+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/porsche-lead-at-halfway-point-as-fog-causes-daytona-24-hours-havoc Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Fog has caused havoc at the 2026 Daytona 24 Hours, with the #7 factory Porsche Penske remaining in the overall lead at the halfway point. It was a chaotic opening six hours of the 64th edition of the iconic race at Daytona International Speedway, which saw the #7 take the lead just shy of the six-hour mark. The #7 has led much of the race, with green-flag running having been limited during the night. As darkness fell and the traditional fireworks went off, thick fog triggered major visibility concerns, resulting in a full-course yellow. Full-course yellows were introduced due to the fog just past the 11-hour mark and remain in place. At the 12-hour mark, former F1 driver Felipe Nasr leads in the #7, ahead of Earl Bamber in the #31 Cadillac Whelan and the heavily damaged #6 factory Porsche. LMP2 has been the most chaotic category of the race so far, with several incidents, but it is the #99 AO Racing that leads the class, ahead of the #22 United Autosports and the #8 Tower Motorsports entries. Just seven cars in the LMP2 category remain on the same lap, while nine cars are still on the lead lap in GTP. GT categories are incredibly competitive, with GTD Pro seeing the top 12 cars all still on the same lap. Nevertheless, the #1 Paul Miller Racing BMW leads, ahead of the #911 Manthey Porsche and the #4 Corvette by Pratt Miller Racing. Finally, in GTD, three cars have retired from the race, including one LMP2 and one GTD Pro entry. The class is being led by the #36 DXDT Racing Corvette, ahead of the #13 13 Autosport Corvette and the #96 Turner Motorsport BMW.

2026-01-25T07:25:00+01:00 2026-01-25T07:34:31+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/oscar-piastri-hints-at-possible-changes-to-controversial-mclaren-papaya-rules Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com Oscar Piastri has hinted that McLaren could make possible changes to its 'papaya rules' after a review over the winter. During the title fight with the eventual world champion, Lando Norris in 2025, Piastri believed that he had been unfairly impacted by a number of incidents as the race intensified. In Italy, after a slow pit-stop for Norris, he was instructed to allow the Briton to re-pass for second place before being allowed to race. Piastri claimed over the radio that during discussions, he believed a slow pit-stop had been designated as a "part of racing", but did follow the request. The 'papaya rules', which first gained public notice in 2024, have been described by both drivers, team boss Andrea Stella and CEO Zak Brown as essentially being an instruction not to crash into each other or have contact. However, in Singapore, Piastri was also aggrieved after being shoved out of the way by Norris for third place at Turn 2 on the opening lap, with no instructions being given for Norris to cede the position.  A late-season wobble in form ultimately cost Piastri the title to Norris, as he also slipped to third behind Max Verstappen, as the Melbourne-native addressed the team orders situation ahead of the new campaign.  "It gets talked about a lot," he told Channel 9.  " Behind the scenes , it's a much smaller discussion and a smaller deal than what it gets made out to be. "But, we've got our ways of going racing, and it's constantly evolving. We'll do a review, and we already have reviewed.  "Do we want to do things exactly the same? Do we want to change things a bit? We'll get a handle on that fully before we go racing again. "For me, the intentions were always in the right place, and we'll do some tweaking if we feel we need it, to try and make life a bit easier for ourselves."

2026-01-25T06:30:00+01:00 2026-01-27T13:11:18+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/f1-2026-barcelona-pre-season-test-schedule Nick Golding info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com The first pre-season test ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season gets underway on Monday at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Due to the introduction of new power unit regulations, testing is starting earlier than usual ahead of the opening race in Melbourne. Rather than a single three-day test, three tests will take place before the Australian Grand Prix. The first is a behind-closed-doors five-day test in Barcelona. While the test will run from January 26 to January 30, each team can only run on three of the five days. McLaren and Ferrari have both already confirmed that they will not run on the opening day, while Williams will miss the entire test after withdrawing. Each day, the track will go live at 09:00 local time (CET) and close at 17:00. Daylight permitting, running could be extended by an hour. View the full schedule below. F1 2026 Barcelona pre-season test schedule

2026-01-25T01:46:00+01:00 2026-01-25T07:33:42+01:00 https://racingnews365.com/customer-porsche-loses-daytona-24-hours-lead-as-works-team-overcome-dramatic-collision Jake Nichol info@racingnews365.nl https://racingnews365.com A customer Porsche 963 lost the Daytona 24 Hours just before the six-hour mark, after an earlier dramatic collision for the leading works #6 car. Shortly after the first chaotic hour of the race, the #6 assumed control of the race, with Kevin Estre passing the sister #7 Porsche Penske machine of Felipe Nasr for the lead. After the second round of stops, Laurens Vanthoor (6) and Julien Andlauer (7) took over driving duties, but Vanthoor was soon back on pit-road for repairs after contact with an LMP2 car, dropping the car down the order and out of the leading fight. After another stop, the #6 got a break with a full-course caution following contact between the GT3 cars of Daniel Serra and fellow Ferrari driver, and 2025 Le Mans winner, James Calado.  Serra was forced to retire on the spot, as the race then settled into the night.  As the clock approached 19 hours remaining, another FCY was called following a heavy crash for the #81 DragonSpeed Corvette of Matteo Cairoli, thus bunching the field up again.  Upon the restart and as the clock ticked to one quarter distance completed, the #85 JDC-Miller Motorsport entry of Tijmen van der Helm, Nico Pino, and Kaylen Frederick was leading, with Lauren Heinrich within striking distance in the #7 works Porsche, along with the #93 Acura Meyer Shank of Nick Yelloly also in contention, with the #6 down in seventh overall.  But the #85 was off-sequence and pitted moments before the 18-hour mark was reached, plummeting down the order as Heinrich assumed the lead. In LMP2, the AO Racing #99, currently being driven by Jonny Edgar, was leading, with GTD Pro being led by Neil Verhagen in the #1 BMW Paul Miller Racing machine.  GTD is being led by Thierry Vermeulen in the #34 Ferrari Conquest Racing entry.