Martin Brundle predicts Lando Norris will adapt best to the 2026 rule changes, citing his humility, hunger for titles and McLaren’s focus on battery management and reduced downforce.
Pirelli has cancelled a planned wet tire test in Bahrain with Mercedes and McLaren due to security concerns following military strikes in the region. The cancellation disrupts F1's technical preparations and complicates travel logistics for personnel heading to the Australian Grand Prix, while also raising questions about the upcoming races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
Following a missile strike in Manama’s Juffair district, about 30 km from the Bahrain International Circuit, Pirelli has scrapped its two‑day wet‑tyre development test for 2026, citing security concerns and relocating staff.
The FIA has unanimously amended the 2026 power unit regulations to close a loophole related to engine compression ratio measurements. The change, accelerated to take effect in June 2026, mandates checks under hot operating conditions after rivals suspected Mercedes of exploiting a cold-condition rule. Mercedes, after initial resistance, agreed to the change under pressure from other manufacturers, averting a potential protest as the new season begins.
Charles Leclerc heads into F1's 2026 season as a top title contender if Ferrari's promising new car delivers. Experts rank him second only to Verstappen, praising his evolved consistency and blistering qualifying pace, with the team's development execution being the final crucial piece.
F1 has abandoned the mandatory two-stop tire rule for the Monaco GP after just one season. The 2025 experiment, intended to spice up the race, backfired by encouraging teams to use contrived tactics and artificial strategies, leading to widespread criticism and a swift regulatory U-turn.
Ferrari's Charles Leclerc reveals the 2026 F1 cars are "more alive" and allow for "extreme" driving styles due to increased oversteer from significant weight reduction. He explains that drivers now spend less time purely driving and more time actively managing complex car systems, marking a fundamental shift in the driver's role.
Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies reveals the extensive, 'crucial' role Max Verstappen plays within the team, far exceeding his driving duties. He credits Verstappen's technical insight and holistic involvement in all decisions as a key asset, especially as the team prepares for the major 2026 regulation changes with its new power unit.
F1 has dropped its short-lived mandatory three-tire rule for the Monaco GP after teams exploited it in 2024, undermining its intent. The sport has also finalized a one-minute extension for Q3 qualifying and updated elimination numbers for a 22-car grid starting in 2026.
The official chassis names for all 11 teams contesting the 2026 Formula 1 season have been confirmed. Cadillac's MAC-01, honoring Mario Andretti, was the final reveal, while Audi's R26 marks a clean break for the new manufacturer. The list showcases a mix of enduring team traditions and fresh naming philosophies for the new era.
F1's engine manufacturers have unanimously backed an FIA rule change to clarify how 2026 power unit compression ratios are measured, settling a dispute over a potential performance loophole. The agreement ensures all teams will operate under the same technical interpretation from the start of the new regulatory era.
Formula 1 has adjusted its qualifying format for the 2026 season, extending Q3 by a minute and changing elimination numbers to manage an 11-team grid. The unpopular mandatory two-stop rule used in Monaco has also been scrapped following criticism.
