Rumor: Red Bull has a problem with the 2026 engine
In 2026, Red Bull Racing will switch to its own power units, developed by Red Bull Powertrains together with Ford. The team has high hopes with this and called the creation and production of engines the largest project in the last twenty years. However, the press managed to find out that at this stage the project has problems. In the latest issue of the Italian Autosprint with reference to their sources tells that bench tests of the power plant show a lack of power. However, the problem is not only in this - the test samples demonstrate also low reliability, and in the team it is considered a more serious problem. At the disposal of Red Bull remains a year to solve the difficulties encountered, but the recent experience of Honda shows that to bring the hybrid power plant, built from scratch, to a competitive level requires several years.
In 2026, Red Bull Racing will switch to its own power units, developed by Red Bull Powertrains together with Ford. The team has high hopes with this and called the creation and production of engines the largest project in the last twenty years. However, the press managed to find out that at this stage the project has problems. In the latest issue of the Italian Autosprint with reference to their sources tells that bench tests of the power plant show a lack of power. However, the problem is not only in this - the test samples demonstrate also low reliability, and in the team it is considered a more serious problem. At the disposal of Red Bull remains a year to solve the difficulties encountered, but the recent experience of Honda shows that to bring the hybrid power plant, built from scratch, to a competitive level requires several years.
The Top Valentine's Day Tool Deals and Discounts That Will Impress Any Gear Enthusiast
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Indeed, Valentine’s Day happens this Friday. It’s officially time to rush and find the ideal last-minute gift for that special occasion. If you’re aiming to impress a particular gearhead, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve gathered the finest Valentine’s Day power tool deals to assist you in this endeavor. We're offering significant discounts on brands like Ryobi, Ridgid, and Craftsman, along with incredible BOGO deals from DeWalt, Bosch, and Milwaukee. Regardless of their preferred brand or your budget, we’ve got options for you.
Some of my all-time favorite tools are included as well. Currently, the Milwaukee M12 FUEL bandfile is available for $269.
We might generate income from the products featured on this page and be part of affiliate programs. Learn more ›
Indeed, Valentine’s Day happens this Friday. It’s officially time to rush and find the ideal last-minute gift for that special occasion. If you’re aiming to impress a particular gearhead, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve gathered the finest Valentine’s Day power tool deals to assist you in this endeavor. We're offering significant discounts on brands like Ryobi, Ridgid, and Craftsman, along with incredible BOGO deals from DeWalt, Bosch, and Milwaukee. Regardless of their preferred brand or your budget, we’ve got options for you.
Some of my all-time favorite tools are included as well. Currently, the Milwaukee M12 FUEL bandfile is available for $269.
Max Verstappen has become an ambassador for AlphaTauri, a fashion brand that was previously represented in Formula 1 by the team of the same name. In recent years, the advertising policy of Red Bull has changed, the brand AlphaTauri parted with the team, which is now called Racing Bulls, but signed a contract with Max - the racer will participate in the presentation of clothing lines and fashion collections.
Since parting ways with RB after last year's Singapore Grand Prix, Daniel Riccardo has been a no-show at the Grand Prix and has hinted that his Formula 1 career is over. David Coulthard believes that if Riccardo plans to capitalize on his status as a former F1 driver in the future, he needs a constant reminder.
David Coulthard: "If Daniel is still thinking about racing, he will have to find the right series for him, but there is no doubt that he would be a valuable asset to Formula 1 teams in terms of personality. He hasn't had success at McLaren or RB, but he has become a celebrity who is incredibly popular with the fans. I wouldn't be surprised if he's already realized that working in the media space will help keep him in demand. But in order to do that, he needs to act now. Daniel shouldn't think he can take a year off and still remain as interesting."
David Coulthard: "If Daniel is still thinking about racing, he will have to find the right series for him, but there is no doubt that he would be a valuable asset to Formula 1 teams in terms of personality. He hasn't had success at McLaren or RB, but he has become a celebrity who is incredibly popular with the fans. I wouldn't be surprised if he's already realized that working in the media space will help keep him in demand. But in order to do that, he needs to act now. Daniel shouldn't think he can take a year off and still remain as interesting."
Bottas believes that Mercedes will allow him to compete in 2025.
Valtteri Bottas acknowledges that one of his responsibilities in 2025 will be to act as a "kind of mentor" for Lewis Hamilton’s successor, teenager Kimi Antonelli. Team principal Toto Wolff mentioned this recently, stating that assisting Antonelli will be part of Bottas's role as he returns to Mercedes as a reserve driver after leaving Sauber. "I believe you can see me as a kind of mentor," Bottas, 35, remarked after his lengthy summer vacation in Australia. "As a rookie, there are numerous new concepts to grasp, and I can certainly assist with that."
The Finnish driver has pledged to be present at every race on the calendar, including all technical meetings with both Antonelli and George Russell.
Valtteri Bottas acknowledges that one of his responsibilities in 2025 will be to act as a "kind of mentor" for Lewis Hamilton’s successor, teenager Kimi Antonelli. Team principal Toto Wolff mentioned this recently, stating that assisting Antonelli will be part of Bottas's role as he returns to Mercedes as a reserve driver after leaving Sauber. "I believe you can see me as a kind of mentor," Bottas, 35, remarked after his lengthy summer vacation in Australia. "As a rookie, there are numerous new concepts to grasp, and I can certainly assist with that."
The Finnish driver has pledged to be present at every race on the calendar, including all technical meetings with both Antonelli and George Russell.
FIA may allow a twelfth team on the F1 grid.
A twelfth Formula 1 team may soon be emerging, following in Cadillac's footsteps. After a lengthy battle with F1's commercial rights holder Liberty Media and the current ten teams, Cadillac - initially associated with Andretti - has finally received approval to join the sport in 2026.
"I didn't grasp the reasoning behind it," F1 icon Gerhard Berger remarked to Auto Motor und Sport when questioned about Liberty’s resistance. "Perhaps there’s something going on behind the scenes that I'm unaware of.
"What more could you ask for than an American team featuring an American driver supported by Cadillac? Sure, Cadillac diverts some funds from the other teams, but it also attracts new sponsors.
"A better resolution could have been reached instead of two years of disputes," Berger stated.
A twelfth Formula 1 team may soon be emerging, following in Cadillac's footsteps. After a lengthy battle with F1's commercial rights holder Liberty Media and the current ten teams, Cadillac - initially associated with Andretti - has finally received approval to join the sport in 2026.
"I didn't grasp the reasoning behind it," F1 icon Gerhard Berger remarked to Auto Motor und Sport when questioned about Liberty’s resistance. "Perhaps there’s something going on behind the scenes that I'm unaware of.
"What more could you ask for than an American team featuring an American driver supported by Cadillac? Sure, Cadillac diverts some funds from the other teams, but it also attracts new sponsors.
"A better resolution could have been reached instead of two years of disputes," Berger stated.
Berger suggests that Verstappen may depart from Red Bull following the 2025 season.
Max Verstappen’s tenure at Red Bull might come to an end in 2025, as suggested by the brand’s first-ever sponsored athlete. Amid speculation that Ferrari will showcase a darker red design this season, there are also whispers that Red Bull might finally break away from its typical dark blue matte aesthetic in 2025. These speculations arise alongside news that Verstappen will don the apparel of Red Bull’s fashion line, Alpha Tauri, throughout the upcoming season. The four-time world champion is also publicly supporting a change in F1 liveries, stating, "We’ve had so many matte blue cars - sometimes I think it’s nice to spice things up a bit."
At 27, Verstappen is likely to influence this decision, especially given the current state within the team.
Max Verstappen’s tenure at Red Bull might come to an end in 2025, as suggested by the brand’s first-ever sponsored athlete. Amid speculation that Ferrari will showcase a darker red design this season, there are also whispers that Red Bull might finally break away from its typical dark blue matte aesthetic in 2025. These speculations arise alongside news that Verstappen will don the apparel of Red Bull’s fashion line, Alpha Tauri, throughout the upcoming season. The four-time world champion is also publicly supporting a change in F1 liveries, stating, "We’ve had so many matte blue cars - sometimes I think it’s nice to spice things up a bit."
At 27, Verstappen is likely to influence this decision, especially given the current state within the team.
The Aston Martin team has announced the signing of a multi-year contract with British cosmetics manufacturer Elemis. As part of the partnership, the company will launch a limited range of products to be offered to team guests on the track and will open a spa on the Aston Martin yacht at the Monaco Grand Prix. Jefferson Slack, Managing Director of Commercial and Marketing: "We are delighted to welcome Elemis to the Aston Martin family and global motorsport. The Elemis brand is synonymous with innovation and excellence, so it is only natural that the company has partnered with us ahead of the 2025 season. The announcement of the team's first official skin care partner marks an important milestone in our engagement with the fans and I am delighted that this will open up new opportunities for both parties."
The upcoming season Valtteri Bottas will spend in the role of reserve racer Mercedes. The Finn said that he will be interesting to watch the performances of former teammate Lewis Hamilton. Valtteri Bottas: "It will be great to see Lewis again among the leaders. He is highly motivated this year as he has a new challenge ahead of him, which will be a great incentive. But I'm interested to see how they get on with Charles Leclair. I think the 2025 season will be interesting. The gaps between the top four or five teams are minimal, so it's very hard to predict who will get the advantage. This is good for the fans and for the sport in general, the first few races will give us an idea of the balance of power, but with such minimal gaps, if one of the teams takes a step forward, it will change everything. Of course, I hope that Mercedes will be among the contenders for the title. Everyone in the team is striving for that.
Allwyn, the global lottery operator, has signed a separate contract with McLaren to become an official Formula 1 partner. Allwyn sees the reigning Constructors' Cup winner as the best partner to promote its business to a global audience. Allwyn logos will appear on drivers' overalls and team cars. Zak Brown, Head of McLaren Racing: "We are delighted to welcome Allwyn to the McLaren Racing family. It's great to have such a global brand join our team after a fantastic 2024 season at a time when the team and the sport are gaining momentum. We are excited to race together."
The Red Bull Racing team has unveiled the new uniforms that Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson will be wearing for the 2025 season. The team has kept the familiar navy blue color scheme and added large Red Bull lettering on the polo. The number of sponsor logos has been reduced by the departure of the team's Mexican partners who supported Sergio Perez. The presentation of the 2025 car's coloring will take place at the London show on February 18, with the first outing on the RB21 circuit scheduled for February 25 in Bahrain.
The Racing Bulls team has announced the extension of its existing sponsorship contract with forex broker XMTrading. The company's logos will be placed on the Halo cars of Yuki Tsunoda and Isaac Hajar for the upcoming season. Peter Bayer, CEO of Racing Bulls: "At a time when the Formula 1 car is constantly changing and improving, continuity within the team and with partners are important success factors. We are delighted to embark on new projects with XMTrading, which has remained our official forex partner for the third consecutive year."
Safnauer is ready to return to Formula 1
The parting of ways with Alpine in 2023 ended Otmar Safnauer's long career in Formula 1. Now 60 years old, he is ready to take on a new challenge if he finds the offer interesting... Othmar Safnauer: "I turned 60 last year. I have another five or six years before I decide to retire. I don't want to lose those years, so if a team needs my knowledge and experience, I'm ready to take on a new challenge, but it has to be a serious team that wants to succeed. I don't want to just work for the team. I want to have the freedom and the opportunity to change something, so that the decisions that I make or help to make, make a difference. In Force India I was left to myself. Whatever Andy Green and I suggested, Vijay Malya always agreed. If there were disagreements with the leadership of other divisions, he was always on our side.
The parting of ways with Alpine in 2023 ended Otmar Safnauer's long career in Formula 1. Now 60 years old, he is ready to take on a new challenge if he finds the offer interesting... Othmar Safnauer: "I turned 60 last year. I have another five or six years before I decide to retire. I don't want to lose those years, so if a team needs my knowledge and experience, I'm ready to take on a new challenge, but it has to be a serious team that wants to succeed. I don't want to just work for the team. I want to have the freedom and the opportunity to change something, so that the decisions that I make or help to make, make a difference. In Force India I was left to myself. Whatever Andy Green and I suggested, Vijay Malya always agreed. If there were disagreements with the leadership of other divisions, he was always on our side.
A consortium led by former Formula 1 team owner Eddie Jordan bought the rugby club London Irish. Founded in 1898, the club was suspended from the competition in the summer of 2023 because of the crisis - there was nothing to pay the bills. In 2024, Jordan created a consortium "Jordan Associates" to buy the club, and was able to solve the financial problems. Now Jordan Associates is negotiating the return of London Irish to the championship. Youngest son Eddie Kyle, senior partner in the consortium, said that the new owners will work with the Irish diaspora around the world to strengthen the brand of the club.
The Aston Martin team held a one-day test in Barcelona on Tuesday, with the two main drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, piloting the AMR23, the 2023 car, as part of tests of past years' cars. The team does not report test statistics. In such tests, current drivers are allowed to drive no more than 1,000 kilometers in four days a year. Ferrari has already conducted similar tests with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclair.
Arvid Lindblad: I've gained a lot of weight thanks to Marco
At the end of last year, Red Bull's motorsport consultant Helmut Marko said that Arvid Lindblad has championship potential. In turn, the 17-year-old British driver said that he has developed a very productive relationship with Marko. Arvid Lindblad: "I talk to Helmut Marko quite a lot. Last year we talked to him almost every weekend and he helped me a lot. We have a very honest relationship. I don't like excuses, and neither does he, so we discuss everything very honestly - both when things are going well and never very well. We openly discuss what went wrong and how the problem can be solved. This relationship is the main reason why I've been able to make a big difference. We get on very well with Helmut and it has always been a pleasure to work with him. I am impressed by the number of drivers Marco has brought to Formula 1.
At the end of last year, Red Bull's motorsport consultant Helmut Marko said that Arvid Lindblad has championship potential. In turn, the 17-year-old British driver said that he has developed a very productive relationship with Marko. Arvid Lindblad: "I talk to Helmut Marko quite a lot. Last year we talked to him almost every weekend and he helped me a lot. We have a very honest relationship. I don't like excuses, and neither does he, so we discuss everything very honestly - both when things are going well and never very well. We openly discuss what went wrong and how the problem can be solved. This relationship is the main reason why I've been able to make a big difference. We get on very well with Helmut and it has always been a pleasure to work with him. I am impressed by the number of drivers Marco has brought to Formula 1.
Hamilton feels 'at ease' as F1 legend forecasts victory.
Lewis Hamilton is reportedly adjusting well to his Ferrari cockpit, as stated by the respected Italian sports newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport. Despite some speculation regarding his discomfort with the initial pedal setup and a minor incident in Barcelona while driving an older Maranello single-seater, adjustments made recently have reportedly allowed the seven-time world champion to feel "immediately more comfortable."
Opinions among experts are divided on how the 40-year-old will perform this year, particularly given his difficulties with Mercedes at the onset of the current 'ground effect' regulations. Some suggest that both Ferrari and Hamilton may be primarily driven by financial incentives.
Lewis Hamilton is reportedly adjusting well to his Ferrari cockpit, as stated by the respected Italian sports newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport. Despite some speculation regarding his discomfort with the initial pedal setup and a minor incident in Barcelona while driving an older Maranello single-seater, adjustments made recently have reportedly allowed the seven-time world champion to feel "immediately more comfortable."
Opinions among experts are divided on how the 40-year-old will perform this year, particularly given his difficulties with Mercedes at the onset of the current 'ground effect' regulations. Some suggest that both Ferrari and Hamilton may be primarily driven by financial incentives.
2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Cabriolet First Drive Review: I'm Convinced
Although my test drive was limited to just a few hours in urban traffic, I was thoroughly impressed with the 2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Cabriolet. This car is designed to create an immersive fantasy experience for its passengers, and it excels in this role. You could find yourself at a stoplight in Omaha during October, lower the top, switch to Sport+, and suddenly feel an exhilarating rush, akin to the thrill of hearing the opening guitar riff from the Miami Vice theme.
The interior ambiance of the Mercedes is vibrant, saturated with chrome and leather, highlighted by striking decorative lighting. Complementing this are the curved wood or carbon accents with silver trim, an enhanced exhaust sound, and the refreshing breeze flowing in with the roof down, making the CLE 53 feel like racing through a blue ocean in a high-speed boat.
Although my test drive was limited to just a few hours in urban traffic, I was thoroughly impressed with the 2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Cabriolet. This car is designed to create an immersive fantasy experience for its passengers, and it excels in this role. You could find yourself at a stoplight in Omaha during October, lower the top, switch to Sport+, and suddenly feel an exhilarating rush, akin to the thrill of hearing the opening guitar riff from the Miami Vice theme.
The interior ambiance of the Mercedes is vibrant, saturated with chrome and leather, highlighted by striking decorative lighting. Complementing this are the curved wood or carbon accents with silver trim, an enhanced exhaust sound, and the refreshing breeze flowing in with the roof down, making the CLE 53 feel like racing through a blue ocean in a high-speed boat.
Topdon BT200 Battery and Charging System Tester: Practical Evaluation
Michael Febbo
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The Topdon BT200 Battery and Charging System Tester arrived at just the right moment. I've experienced a few intermittent check engine lights due to a low-voltage code without any obvious issues starting the car. As I've recently been transitioning from skepticism to pessimism, I prepared myself for the potential cost of a $400 alternator. However, a couple of quick tests with the Topdon BT200 alleviated my worries and confirmed that all I needed was a relatively inexpensive and easy battery replacement.
I understand that essentials like eggs, trucks, houses, and coffee beans have surged in price since 2020, but I was not ready for the cost of a new car battery.
Michael Febbo
We may earn commission from the products featured on this page and be a part of affiliate programs. Learn more ›
The Topdon BT200 Battery and Charging System Tester arrived at just the right moment. I've experienced a few intermittent check engine lights due to a low-voltage code without any obvious issues starting the car. As I've recently been transitioning from skepticism to pessimism, I prepared myself for the potential cost of a $400 alternator. However, a couple of quick tests with the Topdon BT200 alleviated my worries and confirmed that all I needed was a relatively inexpensive and easy battery replacement.
I understand that essentials like eggs, trucks, houses, and coffee beans have surged in price since 2020, but I was not ready for the cost of a new car battery.
Yuki Tsunoda was hoping to replace Sergio Perez at Red Bull Racing, but the team chose the less experienced Liam Lawson. Red Bull Racing chief Christian Horner has revealed how Yuki plans to keep motivated in 2025. Christian Horner: "Yuki said he will be motivated by being able to demonstrate that he deserves the opportunity [to drive for Red Bull]. Hopefully the Racing Bulls team will take a step forward with the fact that they will be using our rear suspension, gearbox and other components that are allowed to be bought. The team and its management have gained experience, which will naturally allow them to make a step forward.Yuki is very motivated. He knows how quickly things can change. Who would have thought nine months ago that Liam Lawson would be our driver in 2025? Things change very quickly in Formula 1 and Yuki knows that. He knows he always has to deliver results and be the driver that knocks on our door."
TAG Heuer is the title sponsor of the Monaco Grand Prix
Having regained its status as the Official Timekeeper of Formula 1, Swiss company TAG Heuer is gradually expanding its presence. Today it was announced that it will be the title sponsor of one of the most exciting rounds of the season, the Monaco Grand Prix. This is the first time in the history of Formula 1 that the Monaco Grand Prix has had a title sponsor - since 1950 the round has always been called Grand Prix Automobile de Monaco and will now change its name to TAG Heuer Grand Prix De Monaco. In addition to the title sponsorship, Tag Heuer branding, including a unique logo in honor of the partnership, will grace the streets of the Principality throughout the weekend.
Having regained its status as the Official Timekeeper of Formula 1, Swiss company TAG Heuer is gradually expanding its presence. Today it was announced that it will be the title sponsor of one of the most exciting rounds of the season, the Monaco Grand Prix. This is the first time in the history of Formula 1 that the Monaco Grand Prix has had a title sponsor - since 1950 the round has always been called Grand Prix Automobile de Monaco and will now change its name to TAG Heuer Grand Prix De Monaco. In addition to the title sponsorship, Tag Heuer branding, including a unique logo in honor of the partnership, will grace the streets of the Principality throughout the weekend.