Latest news with #F1GrandPrixofMonaco
Newsweek
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Newsweek
Sardinia Holiday Photos of Max Verstappen With Toto Wolff Go Viral
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Red Bull Racing Formula One driver Max Verstappen has been reportedly pictured with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, holidaying on the Mercedes chief's yacht off the coast of Sardinia. The images posted by Autosprint on Wednesday have been going viral on social media. As F1 enjoys the summer break, drivers and team principals take time off from the hectic 24-race schedule, staying away from the world of premier class racing. However, Wolff potentially spending the holiday with the four-time world champion has caused a row. The Italian publication posted that Verstappen was a guest on Wolff's yacht. In addition, Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc was also spotted by fans in Sardinia. The post read: "What do Formula 1 drivers do when they're on vacation? This is a question many ask, and for three of them, we have a definitive and concrete answer. Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing arrives by boat prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 23, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing arrives by boat prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 23, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco."Toto Wolff and Max Verstappen met in Cala di Volpe, Sardinia, on the Austrian's yacht, where the four-time Dutch world champion was a guest. "Max has renewed his commitment to Red Bull for 2026, but it's hard to believe Wolff has given up on his plan to bring the Dutch driver to Mercedes. Just as it's easy to imagine Verstappen is keeping several options open for 2027. "And that Sardinian pier was also frequented by Charles Leclerc: the Ferrari driver appeared relaxed and very willing to take some photos with the fans present. "Even with the engines off, F1 can be very hot... " [Translated by Google] The images appear to be unusually blurry, especially Wolff's face, which is not entirely clear, which gave rise to the suspicion that they could be AI-generated. However, Planet F1 has confirmed that the photos are genuine, stating that the "images are authentic and that Verstappen did visit Wolff's yacht while both men are holidaying in Sardinia." While speculation about Verstappen's potential move to Mercedes died down during the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend, the holiday photos with Wolff could bring up the topic of his Red Bull exit again. Related: Guenther Steiner Exposes Max Verstappen's Plan for Multi-Year Mercedes Contract George Russell revealed in June that Mercedes was in talks with Verstappen for a future signing. The British driver's contract, which expires at the end of 2025, is yet to be renewed by Mercedes. He revealed ahead of the summer break that he would use the much-needed holiday to rejuvenate, given the recent tensions surrounding his contract extension, for which he has been waiting for 12 months. Russell said: "He [Toto Wolff] has got nothing to be worried about, I've got nothing to be worried about. Nothing is going to happen over the summer because I just want to have a rest and recharge and come back stronger for the second half of the year but there's no time pressure either way. "It will happen when it happens, it's a when not if. I'm 27 now, I've been with the team four years, next year would be my fifth and we want to build the relationship together but it's got to be right and I don't want to rush it. I've been waiting 12 months, I'm not going to just rush it in the course of two weeks so we'll sit down when the time is right."
Newsweek
23-07-2025
- Automotive
- Newsweek
Aston Martin Design Guru Adrian Newey Breaks Silence on Restrictive 2026 F1 Regulations
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Formula One aero guru, Adrian Newey, who joined Aston Martin as a managing technical partner and shareholder in March, has opened up about the upcoming 2026 F1 regulations for the first time, hinting that there remains limited flexibility in design. For the first time in more than a decade, new engine and chassis regulations will be implemented next year, leading to entirely new F1 cars on the grid that will be lighter and slightly smaller than the current ground effect cars. They will also feature active aerodynamics on the front and rear wings. One major difference in the 2026 F1 car will be the way it is powered. The new car will feature an electric motor and an internal combustion engine, with the power being split equally between the two. F1 teams were allowed to begin their work on the 2026 car from this year, as they continue focusing on the 2025 season. Juggling between the two cars has been quite a task, and many teams are ending their progress of the current car after the summer break. Adrian Newey of Aston Martin walks in the paddock during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. Adrian Newey of Aston Martin walks in the paddock during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, current regulations offer little design flexibility to teams to experiment with their cars' components, pushing them to find creative loopholes. The 2024 season saw McLaren introduce a rear wing that flexed under pressure at high speed, creating a semi-DRS effect. While the FIA deemed it to be legal, it reportedly asked McLaren to change the design after facing backlash from other teams on the grid. As F1 teams rely on such grey areas in the regulations to extract further performance from cars, Newey has suggested that the 2026 regulations don't offer "much room" to experiment, but admitted that a deep dive into the rules could help obtain a certain amount of flexibility. Speaking to F1-Insider, he said: "When I first saw the rules, my initial reaction was, 'Oh dear, that doesn't leave much room for maneuver! "But when you delve into the details, you do see a certain amount of flexibility. But as always in Formula 1, after three or four years, the teams will converge." Aged 66, Newey parted ways with Red Bull last year, where he designed the team's dominant cars that helped Max Verstappen secure four championships. After starting his new role at Aston Martin, the Briton admitted that he went into a "design trance," as his wife calls it, working "flat out" continuously except on one weekend, to design "a fast racing car." He added: "I had a weekend off recently, but apart from that, it's been pretty much flat-out nonstop. When I enter such a phase of intense concentration, I barely notice anything to the left or right. All my computing power is channeled toward one goal: designing a fast racing car." Newey is currently working on "the front and rear suspension, the fuel tank size, and the wheelbase" of the 2026 Aston Martin F1 car. However, he mentioned two shortcomings affecting his work, for which his team may have to rely on mid-season upgrades. He said: "On the one hand, we don't have enough time, and on the other, our simulation tools may be a bit weak. So we have to try to make the best possible assessments. If necessary, the body and wings can be adjusted during the season."
1News
05-07-2025
- Automotive
- 1News
Formula 1: What Lawson needs to do to keep his race seat for 2026
It's no understatement to say that Liam Lawson has had a roller coaster of a 2025 Formula 1 season. The 23-year-old was promoted to top team Red Bull Racing at the end of 2024, after a six-race stint last season at junior team Racing Bulls in replacement of Daniel Ricciardo. But after just two underwhelming races to start the season, Lawson was dropped – swiftly demoted back to junior outfit Racing Bulls and replaced by Yuki Tsunoda, a switch many labelled as 'harsh'. Since then, Lawson has been steadily rebuilding his confidence and gaining back his previously impressive form. And after many flashes of promise and, arguably, many unlucky weekends, Lawson's hard work was rewarded with a career-best sixth place finish at last week's Austrian Grand Prix- the home race of Red Bull. While things are starting to look up for the Kiwi, Lawson still remains without a race seat for next year. And having only out-performed rookie teammate Isack Hadjar twice this season, Lawson could be at high-risk of missing out on a spot on next year's grid. ADVERTISEMENT With the season approaching the halfway point and many young, talented drivers waiting in the wings – including 17-year-old Red Bull Junior driver Arvid Lindblad – Lawson has a point to prove and a future to secure. So, what can the Kiwi driver do to keep his race seat in the cut-throat world of Formula 1? Points, points, and more points. Midfield teams like Racing Bulls can't afford DNFs or anonymous weekends – and Lawson's path to a full-time seat relies on bringing the car home in the top 10 regularly. His P8 finish in Monaco showcased his racecraft and composure under pressure. In a strategic team move to maximise points for teammate Isack Hadjar, Lawson managed to hold back more than half the field with his defensive driving, earning him the nickname Liam 'The Shield' Lawson. : Liam Lawson of New Zealand driving the (30) Visa Cash App Racing Bulls VCARB 02 on track during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Source: Getty) He backed that up in Austria, defending two-time world champion Fernando Alonso in DRS range for almost the entire race, while managing his tyres through a tough one stop strategy. ADVERTISEMENT If Lawson can keep up performances like these, along with consistent Q3 appearances in qualifying, he'll not only boost his confidence but also prove indispensable to a team chasing Constructors' Championship points. Outperforming his teammate Lawson's teammate Isack Hadjar may be a rookie, but he has had a stand-out start to his Formula 1 career, impressing many with his maturity and ability to consistently perform in a midfield car. The French driver has scored 21 points across the 11 races so far, while Lawson has only managed to score 12. Lawson, who has more F1 race experience under his belt, can't afford to be outshone by the new kid on the block if he's hoping to keep his spot on the team for 2026. Whether it's during qualifying or on race days, being the number one driver proves to be crucial now more than ever. Beating Hadjar across the season – on pace, points, and racecraft – would solidify Lawson as a strong and reliable option for the team. But until he is able to do that consistently, Lawson may continue to remain in the shadow of his teammate. ADVERTISEMENT Keeping it clean on and off the track Lawson's 'aggressive' driving style in Formula 1 has earned him a mix of both praise and criticism. While it's provided many exciting and memorable race moments, it's also caused a few on-track incidents, including high-speed collisions and penalties that have at times jeopardised his race results. Liam Lawson and Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso have a heated discussion after an on-track battle during the 2024 United States Grand Prix sprint race. (Source: Getty) The Racing Bulls driver has also come under fire for several altercations with other drivers during his time in in the sport. Most notably last season, where Lawson faced backlash after flipping the bird to Red Bull driver Sergio Perez on track at the Mexico City Grand Prix. In a sport where consistency and control are prized just as highly as speed, Lawson needs to show he can channel that intensity more constructively. ADVERTISEMENT If Lawson is able to keep the aggression but dial down the recklessness, it could go long way toward proving he's ready for a long-term seat in Formula 1. The bottom line? Liam Lawson has got what it takes. Only 20 of the world's fastest drivers make it to Formula 1, but staying there is the real challenge. With the British Grand Prix approaching, Lawson has a key window to back up his successful Austria result and make his mark. If he can deliver when it counts and show he's matured as a driver, he'll give himself every chance of staying on the grid in 2026. By Bianca Day
Newsweek
03-07-2025
- Automotive
- Newsweek
Verstappen's Father Hits Back After Driver Points to Red Bull Exit Clause
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Jos Verstappen has slammed former Red Bull test driver Robert Doornbos for his comments on Max Verstappen's contract. Doornbos highlighted exit clauses in Max's F1 contract, which could reportedly pave the way to his exit. This comes amid rumors about Max's potential Red Bull exit to join Mercedes, after George Russell revealed that his contract extension was on hold due to ongoing talks between Max and Mercedes. The four-time world champion is said to have been approached not only by Mercedes but also by Aston Martin. Given that his 2025 F1 car, the RB21, cannot match the pace of McLaren's MCL39, Max has been struggling to secure victories as before. Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing and Jos Verstappen arrive by boat prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 23, 2025... Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing and Jos Verstappen arrive by boat prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 23, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. MoreThe past eleven rounds of the 2025 season saw him win only two races, as opposed to the previous year when he won seven out of the first ten Grands Prix. Max also suffered a DNF last weekend at the Austrian Grand Prix after Mercedes' Andrea Kimi Antonelli crashed into him. That places Max third in the championship standings, and only nine points separate him and Russell in fourth. Consequently, Red Bull suffered greatly in its championship battle, with the team now placed fourth in the Constructors' Championship. Yuki Tsunoda's ongoing struggles with the RB21 are not helping either. Doornbos revealed that Verstappen's Red Bull contract will activate an exit clause if he drops to fourth place in the championship standings. Speaking to Race Café De Stamtafel, he said: "If the exit clauses are correct, because of course there are two clauses actually, then one will be activated if Max is not in the top two among the drivers. "And if Red Bull is not in the top three among the constructors, then one will also be activated. "The other one is about third place among the constructors, I'm 100 per cent sure it's in there. If a constructor can no longer deliver, then Max cannot deliver. And Red Bull is fourth. "He's leaving. "Red Bull's fairy tale stops at some point. As much as you would like to see it go ahead." However, Jos Verstappen has ridiculed Doornbos's claims by commenting on the social media post by Ziggo Sports. Planet F1 reported his comment: "Doornbos talks like a headless chicken." Regardless of the claims, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff clarified in Austria that while Russell and Kimi Antonelli would likely form the 2026 driver lineup, his pursuit of Max will continue in the team's long-term interest. He said: "I think when you look at the situation we have with Kimi [Antonelli] and George, we have a perfect line-up that we very much enjoy, that we believe is the future. "But at the same time, there is a four-time World Champion that needs to decide what he's going to do in the future, and that is just, as a team principal, you need to see where that is going." He added: "Nothing needs, in a way, to come towards favourable for us, because with George and Kimi is what we want to be and what we want to continue. "But, in order to plan right for the long term of the future, you've got to understand what other people do."
Newsweek
20-06-2025
- Automotive
- Newsweek
Williams F1 Team Boss Releases Statement After Long Term Contract Extension
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Williams team principal James Vowles has announced a long-term contract extension after joining the team in 2023. Vowles will continue leading the Grove-based outfit in its quest to become a championship-winning team. In a statement posted on X, Vowles acknowledged that though the goal remains distant, he is confident that Williams is heading in the right direction. Having arrived from Mercedes in 2023, a team that had won nine Constructors' Championships, Vowles is aware of the mindset a winning team needs to have. One major step to getting closer to his goal was signing former Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz last year, after the Maranello outfit signed Lewis Hamilton for the 2025 campaign. Convincing Sainz to take the wheel of a car that constantly finished outside the points was a big ask. However, it was Vowles' leadership and his vision for the team's future that motivated him to take the leap of faith. Williams Team Principal James Vowles looks on in the paddock during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 24, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. Williams Team Principal James Vowles looks on in the paddock during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 24, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, his contract extension on X, Vowles wrote: "I am absolutely delighted to have signed a new long-term contract with Atlassian Williams Racing. Remaining at Williams was never in doubt, but I'm really pleased to have formalised it. "This team has felt like home from the moment I walked through the door. It really is a special place and we have an amazing opportunity to get it back where it belongs: building on Sir Frank's legacy and winning World Championships. "We aren't there yet but we are on the right path. We have done some good work fixing the foundations. To be clear, it isn't my work – it is your work. The great privilege of this job is in getting 1,000 people pointing in the right direction to deliver results. We now have the platform to build from. We have the investment we need from Dorilton, a world-class driver line-up in Alex and Carlos, top global brands as partners, and a growing global fanbase. "I'm excited as to what we can achieve together in the years ahead." I am absolutely delighted to have signed a new long-term contract with Atlassian Williams Racing. Remaining at Williams was never in doubt, but I'm really pleased to have formalised it. This team has felt like home from the moment I walked through the door. It really is a… — James Vowles (@JV_F1) June 19, 2025 The chairman of Atlassian Williams Racing and Dorilton Capital, Matthew Savage, said in a statement: "We are thrilled that James has signed a new contract with Atlassian Williams Racing and committed his future to completing the mission that we are on together. He has brought experience, energy and strategic leadership to the task of restoring Williams to the top step of the podium. We aren't there yet but you can sense the momentum we are building at Grove and are excited about what lies ahead."
