Leclerc: The updates should fix the car's weaknesses.
After the British Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc explained that Ferrari is still working on refining the car. The Monegasque expects that the upcoming updates will address the SF-25's weaknesses.
Charles Leclerc: "Ultimately, we lack speed. The team is preparing updates that should fix some specific flaws of the car. I hope these new parts will help us navigate certain corners more reliably.
I don't want to go into details, but the car has a few weak points. We identified them and will try to fix them as quickly as possible."
At Silverstone, Charles was among those who, after the formation lap on intermediate tires, went to the pits for slicks. The decision did not pay off, but Leclerc assures that this was not the only reason for his 14th place finish: "Of course, it didn't help, but even without that, I was nowhere all race.
After the British Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc explained that Ferrari is still working on refining the car. The Monegasque expects that the upcoming updates will address the SF-25's weaknesses.
Charles Leclerc: "Ultimately, we lack speed. The team is preparing updates that should fix some specific flaws of the car. I hope these new parts will help us navigate certain corners more reliably.
I don't want to go into details, but the car has a few weak points. We identified them and will try to fix them as quickly as possible."
At Silverstone, Charles was among those who, after the formation lap on intermediate tires, went to the pits for slicks. The decision did not pay off, but Leclerc assures that this was not the only reason for his 14th place finish: "Of course, it didn't help, but even without that, I was nowhere all race.
Minardi: Silverstone gave us an exciting race.
The former team owner Ginikarlo Minardi shared his impressions of the British Grand Prix on his website...
Ginikarlo Minardi: Silverstone provided us with an exciting race full of numerous mistakes by teams and drivers, in which Ferrari and Mercedes did not shine.
The absolute star of the weekend was the McLaren team, which was racing two seconds faster than the rest. This staggering and somewhat alarming dominance is based on excellent aerodynamic downforce. It's a pity for Oscar Piastri, who jeopardized his race with a small mistake behind the safety car – it cost him dearly. If Norris ultimately won the race, Oscar lost his race.
The applause is deserved by Sauber and Nico Hülkenberg. Starting 19th, the German finished only behind two McLarens, marking his first podium in his career. He conducted an impeccable race, making the most of others' mistakes.
The former team owner Ginikarlo Minardi shared his impressions of the British Grand Prix on his website...
Ginikarlo Minardi: Silverstone provided us with an exciting race full of numerous mistakes by teams and drivers, in which Ferrari and Mercedes did not shine.
The absolute star of the weekend was the McLaren team, which was racing two seconds faster than the rest. This staggering and somewhat alarming dominance is based on excellent aerodynamic downforce. It's a pity for Oscar Piastri, who jeopardized his race with a small mistake behind the safety car – it cost him dearly. If Norris ultimately won the race, Oscar lost his race.
The applause is deserved by Sauber and Nico Hülkenberg. Starting 19th, the German finished only behind two McLarens, marking his first podium in his career. He conducted an impeccable race, making the most of others' mistakes.
The potential move of Max Verstappen from Red Bull Racing to Mercedes next year continues to be discussed in Formula 1. 1997 World Champion Jacques Villeneuve speculated on the factors that might influence Max's decision on Viaplay.
Jacques Villeneuve: "Max will face a difficult choice. Remember Lewis Hamilton and his move to Mercedes – at that time, everyone mocked his decision. Everyone said, 'What is he doing? Why is he leaving the best team for Mercedes?' But the decision turned out to be correct.
Now, everyone thinks that thanks to the new regulations and engines, Mercedes will have an advantage. Just as it happened when Formula 1 switched from atmospheric engines to hybrid power units. But that doesn't mean the story will repeat itself this time, although people believe it will."
Jacques Villeneuve: "Max will face a difficult choice. Remember Lewis Hamilton and his move to Mercedes – at that time, everyone mocked his decision. Everyone said, 'What is he doing? Why is he leaving the best team for Mercedes?' But the decision turned out to be correct.
Now, everyone thinks that thanks to the new regulations and engines, Mercedes will have an advantage. Just as it happened when Formula 1 switched from atmospheric engines to hybrid power units. But that doesn't mean the story will repeat itself this time, although people believe it will."
Norris: Sometimes it gets pretty scary, but it inspires.
Lando Norris won the British Grand Prix, although it could be said that he was partly lucky since Oscar Piastri, his teammate at McLaren, received a penalty. However, when talking about his victory in his home race, Lando didn't mention this and attributed his success to other factors.
Question: Congratulations – you won your home race! Just share how important this is for you...Lando Norris: Where to begin? The race was full of events, and I want to say that this victory is extremely important to me. After all, when you step onto the top of the podium after finishing your home race, it's always a very special moment.
In other interviews, I’ve already said that my love for motorsport started at Silverstone. Years ago, I watched races on TV, races involving Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button, Fernando Alonso...
Lando Norris won the British Grand Prix, although it could be said that he was partly lucky since Oscar Piastri, his teammate at McLaren, received a penalty. However, when talking about his victory in his home race, Lando didn't mention this and attributed his success to other factors.
Question: Congratulations – you won your home race! Just share how important this is for you...Lando Norris: Where to begin? The race was full of events, and I want to say that this victory is extremely important to me. After all, when you step onto the top of the podium after finishing your home race, it's always a very special moment.
In other interviews, I’ve already said that my love for motorsport started at Silverstone. Years ago, I watched races on TV, races involving Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button, Fernando Alonso...
Helmut Marco: The fight for the title is over for us.
Red Bull Motorsports Consultant Helmut Marko summarized the race weekend at Silverstone and stated that Max Verstappen is not competing for the title this season.
Question: After the race finish, you said on live television that even approaching McLaren now is a difficult task... Helmut Marko: Unfortunately, that's true. After Max Verstappen's pole position, everything didn't look so bad. Unfortunately, we relied on the weather forecast and chose dry track settings. In the rain, it was clear we had no chance.
Question: How disappointed were you with Max's spin during the restart? Helmut Marko: Without the spin, Max could have finished third. It's just that we have to admit that McLaren is much better.
Question: What can you say about Nico Hülkenberg's first podium? Helmut Marko: After 239 races, he can only be congratulated on this.
Red Bull Motorsports Consultant Helmut Marko summarized the race weekend at Silverstone and stated that Max Verstappen is not competing for the title this season.
Question: After the race finish, you said on live television that even approaching McLaren now is a difficult task... Helmut Marko: Unfortunately, that's true. After Max Verstappen's pole position, everything didn't look so bad. Unfortunately, we relied on the weather forecast and chose dry track settings. In the rain, it was clear we had no chance.
Question: How disappointed were you with Max's spin during the restart? Helmut Marko: Without the spin, Max could have finished third. It's just that we have to admit that McLaren is much better.
Question: What can you say about Nico Hülkenberg's first podium? Helmut Marko: After 239 races, he can only be congratulated on this.
Toto Wolff acknowledges having struck Kimi Raikkonen.
"I had to give him a slap."
Toto Wolff has candidly confessed to striking a well-known former Formula 1 driver. Ex-world champion Kimi Raikkonen generated much laughter during the FIA's 2018 end-of-season awards ceremony as he appeared clearly intoxicated. However, Mercedes boss Wolff wasn't amused behind the scenes when the Finn ridiculed the newly crowned Formula 2 champion, George Russell.
"Should I share the Raikkonen story?" Wolff asked the now-established Mercedes driver at Silverstone while being interviewed by ORF. Russell smiled and replied, "It's up to you. It doesn’t bother me." Wolff then switched to German to recount the "somewhat embarrassing story." He began by explaining that he grew up "in rather tough circumstances" and hence learned early on to stand up for himself, sometimes physically.
"I had to give him a slap."
Toto Wolff has candidly confessed to striking a well-known former Formula 1 driver. Ex-world champion Kimi Raikkonen generated much laughter during the FIA's 2018 end-of-season awards ceremony as he appeared clearly intoxicated. However, Mercedes boss Wolff wasn't amused behind the scenes when the Finn ridiculed the newly crowned Formula 2 champion, George Russell.
"Should I share the Raikkonen story?" Wolff asked the now-established Mercedes driver at Silverstone while being interviewed by ORF. Russell smiled and replied, "It's up to you. It doesn’t bother me." Wolff then switched to German to recount the "somewhat embarrassing story." He began by explaining that he grew up "in rather tough circumstances" and hence learned early on to stand up for himself, sometimes physically.
The FIA president persists in advocating for the return of V8 engines in F1.
"Hopefully, we will have something by 2029."
Mohammed Ben Sulayem has intensified his campaign for re-election as president of Formula 1’s governing body. During the British GP weekend, where the controversial FIA leader was present, a competing presidential bid was launched by ousted former F1 steward Tim Mayer. Mayer, the offspring of renowned former McLaren team principal Teddy Mayer, will challenge Ben Sulayem in the elections set for mid-December in Uzbekistan. He commenced his campaign with a scathing critique of Ben Sulayem.
"The president assumed office four years ago with promising ideas," Mayer stated, "but ultimately, what we witnessed was a concentration of power. I’m disappointed in Mohammed. His leadership qualities are lacking.
"Hopefully, we will have something by 2029."
Mohammed Ben Sulayem has intensified his campaign for re-election as president of Formula 1’s governing body. During the British GP weekend, where the controversial FIA leader was present, a competing presidential bid was launched by ousted former F1 steward Tim Mayer. Mayer, the offspring of renowned former McLaren team principal Teddy Mayer, will challenge Ben Sulayem in the elections set for mid-December in Uzbekistan. He commenced his campaign with a scathing critique of Ben Sulayem.
"The president assumed office four years ago with promising ideas," Mayer stated, "but ultimately, what we witnessed was a concentration of power. I’m disappointed in Mohammed. His leadership qualities are lacking.
An Inside Look at F1's 2025 Sponsorship Strategies: The Bold Moves by McLaren, Ferrari, and Red Bull
F1's top teams have revamped their sponsorship lineups for 2025. McLaren and Ferrari are reinforcing their established partnerships, while Red Bull is in the spotlight for changing its crypto sponsorships. With the crypto market thriving and digital payments becoming more popular in entertainment and gaming, these agreements signify more than just branding; they indicate the sport's future direction.
Let’s examine this in detail.
Mercedes-AMG Petronas: advanced technology and precision
Mercedes is continuously refining its branding strategy. They have parted ways with Puma and Tommy Hilfiger, welcoming Adidas and new partners like Signify (smart lighting) and Mous (protective tech accessories).
F1's top teams have revamped their sponsorship lineups for 2025. McLaren and Ferrari are reinforcing their established partnerships, while Red Bull is in the spotlight for changing its crypto sponsorships. With the crypto market thriving and digital payments becoming more popular in entertainment and gaming, these agreements signify more than just branding; they indicate the sport's future direction.
Let’s examine this in detail.
Mercedes-AMG Petronas: advanced technology and precision
Mercedes is continuously refining its branding strategy. They have parted ways with Puma and Tommy Hilfiger, welcoming Adidas and new partners like Signify (smart lighting) and Mous (protective tech accessories).
Rivian's RAD Tuner Functions Like an Equalizer for Your Electric Vehicle's Powertrain.
Joel Feder
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Custom drive modes featuring independent settings for elements like suspension and throttle response aren’t new, and several automakers have explored creative options, including variables for launch control and broader selectable ranges. However, Rivian is taking it to a new level with the introduction of a feature in the second-generation quad-motor 2026 R1T and R1S that allows you to fine-tune your ideal drive mode across 10 different performance parameters, similar to a Forza tuning menu.
Dubbed the RAD Tuner, this feature might seem overwhelming to some readers.
Joel Feder
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Custom drive modes featuring independent settings for elements like suspension and throttle response aren’t new, and several automakers have explored creative options, including variables for launch control and broader selectable ranges. However, Rivian is taking it to a new level with the introduction of a feature in the second-generation quad-motor 2026 R1T and R1S that allows you to fine-tune your ideal drive mode across 10 different performance parameters, similar to a Forza tuning menu.
Dubbed the RAD Tuner, this feature might seem overwhelming to some readers.
Rivian's Kick Turn Elevates the 360-Degree Tank Turn to a New Level of Practicality.
**Joel Feder**
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The saying goes, "better late than never." In this scenario, "better late than early" also rings true. Rivian has finally fulfilled its commitment to the 360-degree “tank turn” feature six years after first hinting at it, and it has surpassed competitors like Mercedes-Benz who beat it to market. The new quad-motor 2026 R1T and R1S can now rotate completely in place while either stationary or in motion—a clever maneuver.
Rivian has rebranded this technique as "Kick Turn," a more approachable name that likely won't deter people from referring to it as a tank turn. Conceptually, it functions similarly to the electric Mercedes G-Wagen and various Chinese EVs.
**Joel Feder**
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The latest car news, reviews, and features.
The saying goes, "better late than never." In this scenario, "better late than early" also rings true. Rivian has finally fulfilled its commitment to the 360-degree “tank turn” feature six years after first hinting at it, and it has surpassed competitors like Mercedes-Benz who beat it to market. The new quad-motor 2026 R1T and R1S can now rotate completely in place while either stationary or in motion—a clever maneuver.
Rivian has rebranded this technique as "Kick Turn," a more approachable name that likely won't deter people from referring to it as a tank turn. Conceptually, it functions similarly to the electric Mercedes G-Wagen and various Chinese EVs.
Honda Is Selling More Electric SUVs from GM Than General Motors Itself.
The Drive
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Although neither company frequently discusses it publicly, the Honda Prologue and Acura ZDX are essentially midsize GM electric SUVs in stylish disguises. Beneath their badge-engineered surfaces, they are fundamentally the same vehicles as the Chevy Blazer EV and Cadillac Lyriq. Interestingly, despite being released later and distributed through a smaller dealer network, Honda’s models are somehow outperforming the vehicles they are based on in sales.
The Q2 statistics reveal the complete picture. Honda dealers have sold over 16,000 Prologues this year, while Chevy has recorded fewer than 13,000 Blazer EV sales. Notably, Chevrolet operates nearly 3,000 dealerships across the U.S.
The Drive
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Although neither company frequently discusses it publicly, the Honda Prologue and Acura ZDX are essentially midsize GM electric SUVs in stylish disguises. Beneath their badge-engineered surfaces, they are fundamentally the same vehicles as the Chevy Blazer EV and Cadillac Lyriq. Interestingly, despite being released later and distributed through a smaller dealer network, Honda’s models are somehow outperforming the vehicles they are based on in sales.
The Q2 statistics reveal the complete picture. Honda dealers have sold over 16,000 Prologues this year, while Chevy has recorded fewer than 13,000 Blazer EV sales. Notably, Chevrolet operates nearly 3,000 dealerships across the U.S.
Ferrari announced the extension of a multi-year contract with Antonio Giovinazzi. The Italian driver will continue racing for AF Corse in the World Endurance Championship and will concurrently serve as the team's reserve driver in Formula 1.
Antonio Giovinazzi: "Eight years ago, I began my collaboration with Ferrari, which is more than just a team to me – they are my family. Today's contract extension means I will continue to accept the challenge that motivates me every day to work in an environment where people, teamwork, and ambitions are important.
As an official driver in WEC and the third driver in Formula 1, I am taking on commitments that I am honored and excited about. I am grateful to Ferrari for their belief in me – progressing professionally in the colors of this team is something special.
I can't wait for the next chapters of this story, which I will start with dedication, passion, and a desire for results – all these elements have always been a part of me."
Antonio Giovinazzi: "Eight years ago, I began my collaboration with Ferrari, which is more than just a team to me – they are my family. Today's contract extension means I will continue to accept the challenge that motivates me every day to work in an environment where people, teamwork, and ambitions are important.
As an official driver in WEC and the third driver in Formula 1, I am taking on commitments that I am honored and excited about. I am grateful to Ferrari for their belief in me – progressing professionally in the colors of this team is something special.
I can't wait for the next chapters of this story, which I will start with dedication, passion, and a desire for results – all these elements have always been a part of me."
Pirelli began a two-day test of 2026 prototype tires today at Silverstone with Aston Martin and Sauber, providing specially developed cars, engineers, and drivers.
On the first day, tire engineers focused on comparing tire construction options before their homologation, scheduled for September 1.
Felipe Drugovich completed 112 laps in the Aston Martin AMR25 with the best time of 1:30.119, while Gabriel Bortoleto completed 110 laps in the Sauber C45 with the best time of 1:31.341.
The tests will continue tomorrow – the young Brazilian from Sauber will stay, and Lance Stroll will drive the Aston Martin.
On the first day, tire engineers focused on comparing tire construction options before their homologation, scheduled for September 1.
Felipe Drugovich completed 112 laps in the Aston Martin AMR25 with the best time of 1:30.119, while Gabriel Bortoleto completed 110 laps in the Sauber C45 with the best time of 1:31.341.
The tests will continue tomorrow – the young Brazilian from Sauber will stay, and Lance Stroll will drive the Aston Martin.
In 2018, Wolff struck Raikkonen while defending Russell.
In an interview with ORF, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff recalled an interesting story that took place at the FIA Gala in Saint Petersburg in 2018.
Kimi Räikkönen then finished the Formula 1 season in the top three and attended the awards ceremony for the season held in Russia.
The ceremony took place in the evening, and the Finnish Ferrari driver was intoxicated. Behind the scenes, he insulted George Russell, who had become the Formula 2 champion that year.
Defending his young driver, Wolff took matters into his own hands.
Toto Wolff: "The situation was quite awkward, but that’s how it was. I grew up in a tough environment where sometimes you had to defend yourself.
We were in Saint Petersburg at the awards ceremony, and the Formula 1 driver insulted George, even though he had won Formula 2. I had to slap him, and that was the end of it.
In an interview with ORF, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff recalled an interesting story that took place at the FIA Gala in Saint Petersburg in 2018.
Kimi Räikkönen then finished the Formula 1 season in the top three and attended the awards ceremony for the season held in Russia.
The ceremony took place in the evening, and the Finnish Ferrari driver was intoxicated. Behind the scenes, he insulted George Russell, who had become the Formula 2 champion that year.
Defending his young driver, Wolff took matters into his own hands.
Toto Wolff: "The situation was quite awkward, but that’s how it was. I grew up in a tough environment where sometimes you had to defend yourself.
We were in Saint Petersburg at the awards ceremony, and the Formula 1 driver insulted George, even though he had won Formula 2. I had to slap him, and that was the end of it.
Steve Riley on working as an IT specialist in Formula 1
In an interview with Computerweekly, Mercedes F1 IT department head Steve Ralegh spoke about the specifics of his work...
Steve Ralegh: "Like any other function, IT plays its role in the team's success. Some aspects are more obvious than our contribution in other areas, but every component of the car is produced on the platform we've developed.
To those who join us, we always say: 'Don't think that in the IT department you don’t have a direct impact on the race outcome. Part of your work might be dedicated to this weekend’s race, and part might be focused on the future, ensuring results in 12 months.
If you have professionalism and passion, why not try to combine these two things? I've been here for almost 10 years, and I must say that time flies faster in the team than anywhere else.
In an interview with Computerweekly, Mercedes F1 IT department head Steve Ralegh spoke about the specifics of his work...
Steve Ralegh: "Like any other function, IT plays its role in the team's success. Some aspects are more obvious than our contribution in other areas, but every component of the car is produced on the platform we've developed.
To those who join us, we always say: 'Don't think that in the IT department you don’t have a direct impact on the race outcome. Part of your work might be dedicated to this weekend’s race, and part might be focused on the future, ensuring results in 12 months.
If you have professionalism and passion, why not try to combine these two things? I've been here for almost 10 years, and I must say that time flies faster in the team than anywhere else.
How Rivian Resolved the Tire Consumption Issue in the R1T and R1S
Rivian
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When Rivian initially introduced its quad-motor electric R1T pickup, early users encountered an unfortunate issue: the truck wore out tires at an excessive rate when operated in its eco “Conserve” mode. I’ll explain why this happened, but today’s big news is that Rivian has redesigned the system in the second-generation 2026 R1T and R1S Quads to alleviate this problem, at least for the new models.
Similar to its 360-degree kick turn, the latest Quads feature both mechanical and software modifications that enable this improvement, meaning the less destructive Conserve mode won’t be available to existing vehicles through an over-the-air update.
Rivian
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When Rivian initially introduced its quad-motor electric R1T pickup, early users encountered an unfortunate issue: the truck wore out tires at an excessive rate when operated in its eco “Conserve” mode. I’ll explain why this happened, but today’s big news is that Rivian has redesigned the system in the second-generation 2026 R1T and R1S Quads to alleviate this problem, at least for the new models.
Similar to its 360-degree kick turn, the latest Quads feature both mechanical and software modifications that enable this improvement, meaning the less destructive Conserve mode won’t be available to existing vehicles through an over-the-air update.
TuxMat Floor Mats Made This Honda Civic Feel Like Luxury Transportation
This post is presented by TuxMat.
At some point in life, you may feel the urge to elevate your lifestyle and indulge in some luxurious items. However, splurging on significant purchases like an upgraded living space or a fancier car can be overwhelming. That’s where I appreciate enhancements like TuxMat floor mats. For the cost of a new outfit, you can upgrade your car significantly and meaningfully, making each drive a more enjoyable experience.
Visit the TuxMat catalog to explore the options available for your vehicle’s make and model.
Floor mats may seem like minor details in your car’s interior design. If you’re using standard factory mats or generic ones you found at an auto parts store, they're probably not something you think about often.
This post is presented by TuxMat.
At some point in life, you may feel the urge to elevate your lifestyle and indulge in some luxurious items. However, splurging on significant purchases like an upgraded living space or a fancier car can be overwhelming. That’s where I appreciate enhancements like TuxMat floor mats. For the cost of a new outfit, you can upgrade your car significantly and meaningfully, making each drive a more enjoyable experience.
Visit the TuxMat catalog to explore the options available for your vehicle’s make and model.
Floor mats may seem like minor details in your car’s interior design. If you’re using standard factory mats or generic ones you found at an auto parts store, they're probably not something you think about often.
Former Formula 2 champion Felipe Drugovich will make his debut in Formula E this week with Mahindra, replacing Nick de Vries, who is busy with endurance racing.
Drugovich successfully completed tests, covering the required distance, and is well acquainted with the Berlin circuit, where he participated in the last two rookie tests of Formula E.
Drugovich's teammate will be Mahindra Racing's regular driver Edoardo Mortara.
Felipe Drugovich: "I am glad to confirm that I will debut in Formula E with Mahindra Racing in Berlin. It’s great to have the opportunity to race after a few tests."
Drugovich successfully completed tests, covering the required distance, and is well acquainted with the Berlin circuit, where he participated in the last two rookie tests of Formula E.
Drugovich's teammate will be Mahindra Racing's regular driver Edoardo Mortara.
Felipe Drugovich: "I am glad to confirm that I will debut in Formula E with Mahindra Racing in Berlin. It’s great to have the opportunity to race after a few tests."
Ben Sulaim: I will never be anyone's puppet.
Last week, Tim Mayer announced his intention to run for the position of FIA President. At the press conference dedicated to his candidacy, he heavily criticized the current federation head, Mohammed ben Sulayem. In Silverstone, the FIA President was asked to comment on the words of his future election opponent.
"Public criticism of me doesn't bother me," said Mohammed ben Sulayem. "Some people have nothing to do with FIA, and during elections, their words are completely spineless. They can say whatever they want to earn votes from electors.
Let me ask you: have you ever read even one article where I spoke badly about someone? No, thank you. That's simply not my style. My approach is to communicate with federation members, listen to them, and trust them. That's the only way.
Last week, Tim Mayer announced his intention to run for the position of FIA President. At the press conference dedicated to his candidacy, he heavily criticized the current federation head, Mohammed ben Sulayem. In Silverstone, the FIA President was asked to comment on the words of his future election opponent.
"Public criticism of me doesn't bother me," said Mohammed ben Sulayem. "Some people have nothing to do with FIA, and during elections, their words are completely spineless. They can say whatever they want to earn votes from electors.
Let me ask you: have you ever read even one article where I spoke badly about someone? No, thank you. That's simply not my style. My approach is to communicate with federation members, listen to them, and trust them. That's the only way.