After Sebastian Vettel's departure from Formula 1, rumors periodically appeared in the press about his possible return in a new capacity. The most likely scenario was thought to be that Vettel would replace Helmut Marko as head of the youth programme.
On British Sky Sports, Sebastian Vettel commented on these rumors: "I don't know. Of course, I've read that this scenario is being talked about a lot. And I even discussed it a little with Helmut, but it didn't lead to anything, it didn't spark any interest. I'm happy with my current life. At the very beginning, when I had just left, I doubted whether I should continue to follow what was happening in Formula 1, because I wanted to distance myself. But I still kept watching the races, because I love the sport. I know the guys well, I have good relationships with many of them. Right now I can't say whether I'll have any prospects or opportunities. Maybe a role will come up that I'll be happy to take on, but only time will tell."
He also commented on Christian Horner's dismissal from Red Bull Racing: "Of course, I was surprised by that decision. Christian has been with the team for so long, since its founding, and he knows it inside out. I think everything at Red Bull was in its place this year. I also know Laurent Mekies, I worked with him, and he's a really great guy. Christian left a big mark. Not only because of the successes he achieved with the team, but also because he was its central figure. He understood what was going on. I'm not fully informed about the team's organizational structure and plans for the future. So let's wait and see what comes of it."
On British Sky Sports, Sebastian Vettel commented on these rumors: "I don't know. Of course, I've read that this scenario is being talked about a lot. And I even discussed it a little with Helmut, but it didn't lead to anything, it didn't spark any interest. I'm happy with my current life. At the very beginning, when I had just left, I doubted whether I should continue to follow what was happening in Formula 1, because I wanted to distance myself. But I still kept watching the races, because I love the sport. I know the guys well, I have good relationships with many of them. Right now I can't say whether I'll have any prospects or opportunities. Maybe a role will come up that I'll be happy to take on, but only time will tell."
He also commented on Christian Horner's dismissal from Red Bull Racing: "Of course, I was surprised by that decision. Christian has been with the team for so long, since its founding, and he knows it inside out. I think everything at Red Bull was in its place this year. I also know Laurent Mekies, I worked with him, and he's a really great guy. Christian left a big mark. Not only because of the successes he achieved with the team, but also because he was its central figure. He understood what was going on. I'm not fully informed about the team's organizational structure and plans for the future. So let's wait and see what comes of it."
On Thursday Franco Colapinto said that the main thing this weekend is to please Argentine fans...
Franco Colapinto: "I don't know whether my contract will be extended or what awaits me in the future. I am moving forward from race to race, concentrating on the next round. I really like this round, the circuit and the venue. It's very important to me that I'm taking part in the Grand Prix in Brazil. I'm looking forward to getting out on track. There are a lot of Argentines here; I want to enjoy the weekend with them.
Last year the event wasn't as positive as I would have liked. This time I want to have a good weekend and enjoy spending time with the fans. They did everything to come to Brazil, and I want to give them something nice."
Franco Colapinto: "I don't know whether my contract will be extended or what awaits me in the future. I am moving forward from race to race, concentrating on the next round. I really like this round, the circuit and the venue. It's very important to me that I'm taking part in the Grand Prix in Brazil. I'm looking forward to getting out on track. There are a lot of Argentines here; I want to enjoy the weekend with them.
Last year the event wasn't as positive as I would have liked. This time I want to have a good weekend and enjoy spending time with the fans. They did everything to come to Brazil, and I want to give them something nice."
Mark Webber: Piastri is going through a difficult period right now
Over the last five rounds Oscar Piastri has scored only 42 points, while his teammate Lando Norris — 97, and he has lost the lead in the individual standings. The Australian driver's manager, Mark Webber, said he plans to help Oscar ahead of the next round in Las Vegas.
"We need to help him get back on the right track," Mark Webber shared on Channel 4. "I don't think his motivation has dropped. He's going through a tough spell right now, but it's all about the character needed to get back into the fight. He's only in his third year in Formula 1, and he needs to find the strength to turn things around.
It's just incredible that Oscar is already fighting for the title so early in his career. I suppose only Lewis Hamilton achieved something similar at such an early stage.
Over the last five rounds Oscar Piastri has scored only 42 points, while his teammate Lando Norris — 97, and he has lost the lead in the individual standings. The Australian driver's manager, Mark Webber, said he plans to help Oscar ahead of the next round in Las Vegas.
"We need to help him get back on the right track," Mark Webber shared on Channel 4. "I don't think his motivation has dropped. He's going through a tough spell right now, but it's all about the character needed to get back into the fight. He's only in his third year in Formula 1, and he needs to find the strength to turn things around.
It's just incredible that Oscar is already fighting for the title so early in his career. I suppose only Lewis Hamilton achieved something similar at such an early stage.
McLaren raises concerns about Red Bull's engine strategy in Brazil.
"If it was replaced for performance reasons..."
McLaren has raised concerns regarding whether Red Bull violated the spirit of Formula 1's cost cap regulations by equipping Max Verstappen with a brand-new engine prior to Sunday’s Brazilian GP. Following a poor qualifying session, Red Bull altered Verstappen's suspension setup, resulting in a pitlane start, and seized the opportunity to fit a new Honda power unit, which included a new combustion engine, turbo, MGU-K, MGU-H, battery, and control electronics. This decision took many rivals, particularly McLaren, by surprise as Verstappen was still in pursuit of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris with three races remaining after Brazil.
"Honestly, these types of powertrain swaps defy the rules," stated McLaren team principal Andrea Stella.
"If it was replaced for performance reasons..."
McLaren has raised concerns regarding whether Red Bull violated the spirit of Formula 1's cost cap regulations by equipping Max Verstappen with a brand-new engine prior to Sunday’s Brazilian GP. Following a poor qualifying session, Red Bull altered Verstappen's suspension setup, resulting in a pitlane start, and seized the opportunity to fit a new Honda power unit, which included a new combustion engine, turbo, MGU-K, MGU-H, battery, and control electronics. This decision took many rivals, particularly McLaren, by surprise as Verstappen was still in pursuit of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris with three races remaining after Brazil.
"Honestly, these types of powertrain swaps defy the rules," stated McLaren team principal Andrea Stella.
Hamilton and Leclerc react following Elkann's uncommon criticism.
"Need to concentrate on driving and reduce chatter."
Ferrari president John Elkann has delivered a striking public criticism of his Formula 1 team's drivers following a disastrous performance at the Brazilian GP, which has left the Scuderia’s season hanging by a thread. Speaking in Milan on Monday at an event related to Italy’s 2026 Winter Olympics, Elkann called out the drivers—thought to be specifically addressing Lewis Hamilton—as the weak point in Ferrari’s struggling season.
"If we examine the championship, we can say the mechanics are the ones winning it, based on their performance and the work done during pit stops," he began. "Our engineers have undeniably improved the car. However, regarding the rest, it’s not at an acceptable level.
"Need to concentrate on driving and reduce chatter."
Ferrari president John Elkann has delivered a striking public criticism of his Formula 1 team's drivers following a disastrous performance at the Brazilian GP, which has left the Scuderia’s season hanging by a thread. Speaking in Milan on Monday at an event related to Italy’s 2026 Winter Olympics, Elkann called out the drivers—thought to be specifically addressing Lewis Hamilton—as the weak point in Ferrari’s struggling season.
"If we examine the championship, we can say the mechanics are the ones winning it, based on their performance and the work done during pit stops," he began. "Our engineers have undeniably improved the car. However, regarding the rest, it’s not at an acceptable level.
The first home Grand Prix of Gabriel Bortoleto's career ended with two crashes — in the sprint and in the main race. Commenting on what happened, the Brazilian said he would learn from it and thanked his teammate for his support…
Gabriel Bortoleto: "I need to learn to manage risks better. I was more aggressive than usual, tried new moves, but the sprint is not the best time for experiments. If you crash the car, you won't get through qualifying, which is what happened to me.
I'll analyze everything, draw conclusions and move on. It hurt, because it was my home round, but it's just another race weekend.
I'm grateful to Nico for his support. He said that in his twenty years he's seen worse, and that I have many good moments and setbacks ahead, but they'll make me stronger. He's proud of my achievements this year. I'll keep going in the same spirit, and the good moments will come."
Gabriel Bortoleto: "I need to learn to manage risks better. I was more aggressive than usual, tried new moves, but the sprint is not the best time for experiments. If you crash the car, you won't get through qualifying, which is what happened to me.
I'll analyze everything, draw conclusions and move on. It hurt, because it was my home round, but it's just another race weekend.
I'm grateful to Nico for his support. He said that in his twenty years he's seen worse, and that I have many good moments and setbacks ahead, but they'll make me stronger. He's proud of my achievements this year. I'll keep going in the same spirit, and the good moments will come."
On the first lap of the São Paulo Grand Prix Lance Stroll clipped Gabriel Bortoleto's car. As a result of the contact the Sauber driver lost control, hit the wall and retired from the race. Such maneuvers did not sit well with Franco Colapinto, who criticized Stroll.
Franco Colapinto: "Stroll keeps knocking people off the track. He doesn't look in his rear-view mirrors. This time he sent Gabriel into the wall. He does this every time."
However, Bortoleto himself considers the incident a racing incident: "There's no point in pointing fingers — it all happened on the first lap. I was on the outside, he left a little more room, he clipped my front wheel, and I hit the wall.
I think it was a racing incident. Of course, if he'd left more space I would have made the turn. I might even have passed him, because I was on soft tyres and he was on harder ones."
Franco Colapinto: "Stroll keeps knocking people off the track. He doesn't look in his rear-view mirrors. This time he sent Gabriel into the wall. He does this every time."
However, Bortoleto himself considers the incident a racing incident: "There's no point in pointing fingers — it all happened on the first lap. I was on the outside, he left a little more room, he clipped my front wheel, and I hit the wall.
I think it was a racing incident. Of course, if he'd left more space I would have made the turn. I might even have passed him, because I was on soft tyres and he was on harder ones."
Lando Norris: Drivers are always complaining about something!
Lando Norris believes that he and the McLaren team handled the tasks during the São Paulo Grand Prix weekend very well, although he admitted it was not easy.
Question: You had a great race and a great Brazilian weekend overall — you must be satisfied with the result?
Lando Norris: To be honest, I’m quite satisfied. Both the day and the weekend were excellent. Although I must admit it was tough. Working on the track was difficult, but that only increases the value of the victory. I think we did everything we needed to: we had a good start, good pit stops, effective strategy and a decent pace.
But I would like the race pace to be even higher, so there’s still stuff for us to analyze, although I was ahead in every session when I needed to be. That’s precisely why I flew to Brazil, so right now I’m very pleased.
Question: You say you had some difficulties this weekend. Can you tell us what they were?
Lando Norris: Drivers always complain about something! There were issues with the car’s balance. However, I’m sure others could say the same. For example, at the previous round in Mexico I was happy with the balance, and we won there by 30 seconds. This weekend we won the race by 10 seconds, and as you saw Max Verstappen was catching up to us very quickly.
McLaren has high standards, and it should be that way. When we beat everyone by 10 seconds, you want that margin to be a bit bigger — although I realise that sounds silly. In any case, to build a 10-second gap I literally had to fight with the car.
Overall, it was harder than I would have liked. Nevertheless, of course I’m very pleased with how things went this weekend, and I’m proud of our whole team.
Question: It seems you were pleased with the effectiveness of the Medium tyre; what can you say about the pace on the Softs?
Lando Norris: It wasn’t as good, although the final stint on the Medium tyres wasn’t the best either, unlike the first stint which went really well. But for the third stint I had a scrubbed set of Mediums that had already done seven or eight laps. Overall, I think the pace on that tyre was at a good level all weekend.
The pace on the Softs was just okay. I can’t say anything about the Hards — I didn’t use them. In short, I definitely prefer Mediums, but we’ll see how we approach things next time.
Question: You now lead the championship by 24 points. Can you say this weekend was something of a turning point in the season?
Lando Norris: No. It’s just another weekend where I set out to try to win and score as many points as possible — and I managed to do that. I acted the same way last weekend, so I don’t think the Mexican or the Brazilian rounds can be called turning points.
I simply achieved good results — that’s what I need. That’s why I race each weekend, so right now I’m very pleased. Although there’s still a long way to go until the end of the championship, so it’s too early to celebrate too much.
Question: Let’s talk about the next round in Las Vegas. Cooler weather is expected there — will that help or hurt McLaren?
Lando Norris: It will definitely hurt. I think we had our worst race of the season there last year. So I don’t have big expectations. We’re working hard to make some improvements. We know that a year ago Mercedes were incredibly strong there, and the same applies to Red Bull and Ferrari.
Of course, this year we’ve improved a lot, so we’ll see what we can do. I’m not overly negative about it, and a lot can still happen. But we’re more looking forward to the races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi than to Las Vegas.
Question: After the race you said you’re in good shape now and don’t pay attention to what people say about you. Could you expand on that, since the ability to shut out external noise probably helps in your bid to win the championship?
Lando Norris: To be honest, there isn’t much to comment on. There are always people who try to spoil your mood a bit.
Lando Norris believes that he and the McLaren team handled the tasks during the São Paulo Grand Prix weekend very well, although he admitted it was not easy.
Question: You had a great race and a great Brazilian weekend overall — you must be satisfied with the result?
Lando Norris: To be honest, I’m quite satisfied. Both the day and the weekend were excellent. Although I must admit it was tough. Working on the track was difficult, but that only increases the value of the victory. I think we did everything we needed to: we had a good start, good pit stops, effective strategy and a decent pace.
But I would like the race pace to be even higher, so there’s still stuff for us to analyze, although I was ahead in every session when I needed to be. That’s precisely why I flew to Brazil, so right now I’m very pleased.
Question: You say you had some difficulties this weekend. Can you tell us what they were?
Lando Norris: Drivers always complain about something! There were issues with the car’s balance. However, I’m sure others could say the same. For example, at the previous round in Mexico I was happy with the balance, and we won there by 30 seconds. This weekend we won the race by 10 seconds, and as you saw Max Verstappen was catching up to us very quickly.
McLaren has high standards, and it should be that way. When we beat everyone by 10 seconds, you want that margin to be a bit bigger — although I realise that sounds silly. In any case, to build a 10-second gap I literally had to fight with the car.
Overall, it was harder than I would have liked. Nevertheless, of course I’m very pleased with how things went this weekend, and I’m proud of our whole team.
Question: It seems you were pleased with the effectiveness of the Medium tyre; what can you say about the pace on the Softs?
Lando Norris: It wasn’t as good, although the final stint on the Medium tyres wasn’t the best either, unlike the first stint which went really well. But for the third stint I had a scrubbed set of Mediums that had already done seven or eight laps. Overall, I think the pace on that tyre was at a good level all weekend.
The pace on the Softs was just okay. I can’t say anything about the Hards — I didn’t use them. In short, I definitely prefer Mediums, but we’ll see how we approach things next time.
Question: You now lead the championship by 24 points. Can you say this weekend was something of a turning point in the season?
Lando Norris: No. It’s just another weekend where I set out to try to win and score as many points as possible — and I managed to do that. I acted the same way last weekend, so I don’t think the Mexican or the Brazilian rounds can be called turning points.
I simply achieved good results — that’s what I need. That’s why I race each weekend, so right now I’m very pleased. Although there’s still a long way to go until the end of the championship, so it’s too early to celebrate too much.
Question: Let’s talk about the next round in Las Vegas. Cooler weather is expected there — will that help or hurt McLaren?
Lando Norris: It will definitely hurt. I think we had our worst race of the season there last year. So I don’t have big expectations. We’re working hard to make some improvements. We know that a year ago Mercedes were incredibly strong there, and the same applies to Red Bull and Ferrari.
Of course, this year we’ve improved a lot, so we’ll see what we can do. I’m not overly negative about it, and a lot can still happen. But we’re more looking forward to the races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi than to Las Vegas.
Question: After the race you said you’re in good shape now and don’t pay attention to what people say about you. Could you expand on that, since the ability to shut out external noise probably helps in your bid to win the championship?
Lando Norris: To be honest, there isn’t much to comment on. There are always people who try to spoil your mood a bit.
Nonf1
Lando Norris: Drivers are always complaining about something!
Lando Norris believes he handled the tasks during the São Paulo Grand Prix weekend very well, but admitted it wasn't easy...
ART Grand Prix, competing in Formula 3, has announced the signing of Taito Kato for the 2026 season. The Japanese driver will team up with two other rookies in the junior series – Kanato Li and Maciej Gładysz.
Kato began racing in single-seaters in 2024 and became French Formula 4 champion on his first attempt. In 2025 Taito moved up to the Formula Regional European Championship, stood on the podium twice and finished seventh in the drivers' standings.
Taito Kato: "I am very much looking forward to the new challenges I will face next year. I am very happy to be driving for ART GP in Formula 3, a team I know from our collaboration in the Formula Regional European Championship."
Kato began racing in single-seaters in 2024 and became French Formula 4 champion on his first attempt. In 2025 Taito moved up to the Formula Regional European Championship, stood on the podium twice and finished seventh in the drivers' standings.
Taito Kato: "I am very much looking forward to the new challenges I will face next year. I am very happy to be driving for ART GP in Formula 3, a team I know from our collaboration in the Formula Regional European Championship."
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff believes that after the Brazilian round Max Verstappen has no chance left for the drivers' title…
Toto Wolff: "I think the title is already decided. Lando has a very, very solid lead; he no longer needs to win — it's enough to keep fighting and avoid contact with rivals. He can't afford to retire from a race, because then the situation would swing the other way, but he's unlikely to lose the victory. Obviously, fans would like to see a close fight until the end of the season, but Norris impressed in recent races by not getting nervous, keeping the situation under control and consistently scoring points. McLaren's management have done a good job handling two fast, ambitious drivers, allowing them to take part in the fight and preventing any flare-ups. I don't see a situation in which they would knock each other out of a race."
Toto Wolff: "I think the title is already decided. Lando has a very, very solid lead; he no longer needs to win — it's enough to keep fighting and avoid contact with rivals. He can't afford to retire from a race, because then the situation would swing the other way, but he's unlikely to lose the victory. Obviously, fans would like to see a close fight until the end of the season, but Norris impressed in recent races by not getting nervous, keeping the situation under control and consistently scoring points. McLaren's management have done a good job handling two fast, ambitious drivers, allowing them to take part in the fight and preventing any flare-ups. I don't see a situation in which they would knock each other out of a race."
Jacques Villeneuve praised several drivers for their performances in São Paulo. The 1997 world champion singled out Lando Norris, Kimi Antonelli and Max Verstappen.
Jacques Villeneuve: "There was no rain during the race in São Paulo, but it was very interesting from start to finish. You could even talk about a bit of chaos, which is usually what happens on this circuit.
Lando stood out from the rest. This weekend he fought for the title, scored the maximum points and did not make a single mistake. A very, very good performance.
Antonelli also made a strong impression. He didn’t crack under the pressure and finished ahead of his teammate.
What can you say about Verstappen? He recovered after starting from the pit lane and suffering a puncture in the early laps. Max climbed onto the podium and was close to second place. A very impressive performance that leaves him hopeful of fighting for the title."
Jacques Villeneuve: "There was no rain during the race in São Paulo, but it was very interesting from start to finish. You could even talk about a bit of chaos, which is usually what happens on this circuit.
Lando stood out from the rest. This weekend he fought for the title, scored the maximum points and did not make a single mistake. A very, very good performance.
Antonelli also made a strong impression. He didn’t crack under the pressure and finished ahead of his teammate.
What can you say about Verstappen? He recovered after starting from the pit lane and suffering a puncture in the early laps. Max climbed onto the podium and was close to second place. A very impressive performance that leaves him hopeful of fighting for the title."
Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls announced the date of the presentation.
Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls have announced the date and location of their 2026 season launch. The joint show with Ford will take place on January 15 in Detroit, Michigan, USA.
Both teams will reveal the liveries for the new season and will hold a presentation for Red Bull Ford Powertrains, which will become the official power unit supplier for the two teams. The 2026 cars themselves will not be shown at the presentation.
Laurent Mekies, Head of Red Bull Racing: "The beginning of the Red Bull Ford Powertrains era is not only a bold step into the future but also a vivid testament to what can be achieved by combining world-class engineering, innovation and passion. The energy, precision and scale of this project are inspiring.
Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls have announced the date and location of their 2026 season launch. The joint show with Ford will take place on January 15 in Detroit, Michigan, USA.
Both teams will reveal the liveries for the new season and will hold a presentation for Red Bull Ford Powertrains, which will become the official power unit supplier for the two teams. The 2026 cars themselves will not be shown at the presentation.
Laurent Mekies, Head of Red Bull Racing: "The beginning of the Red Bull Ford Powertrains era is not only a bold step into the future but also a vivid testament to what can be achieved by combining world-class engineering, innovation and passion. The energy, precision and scale of this project are inspiring.
Toto Wolff is negotiating the sale of part of his stake in the Mercedes team. This was reported by business-sports publication Sportico, citing several sources familiar with the situation.
At the moment Toto Wolff owns 33% of the team's shares, the value of which is estimated at $6 billion. An unnamed buyer plans to acquire about 10% of the shares by investing in Toto Wolff's company, which owns the shares.
When asked to comment on the possible deal, the team's press office gave a brief answer: "We will not comment on this. The team's management will remain unchanged, and all three partners (Mercedes‑Benz, Toto and INEOS) are fully committed to Mercedes' continued success in Formula 1."
At the moment Toto Wolff owns 33% of the team's shares, the value of which is estimated at $6 billion. An unnamed buyer plans to acquire about 10% of the shares by investing in Toto Wolff's company, which owns the shares.
When asked to comment on the possible deal, the team's press office gave a brief answer: "We will not comment on this. The team's management will remain unchanged, and all three partners (Mercedes‑Benz, Toto and INEOS) are fully committed to Mercedes' continued success in Formula 1."
Wolff's sale sets the valuation of the Mercedes team at almost $6 billion.
The governance structure will stay the same.
Toto Wolff is reportedly in talks to sell a small portion of his one-third ownership in the Mercedes Formula 1 team, in a deal that could set a record valuation for the reigning champions. The Financial Times states that the Mercedes team, jointly owned by Wolff, Mercedes-Benz, and the British chemicals giant INEOS, is currently valued at approximately $5.6 billion.
The report suggests that Wolff is contemplating selling around 5% of his personal stake, reducing his ownership to about 28%. The identity of the buyer remains unconfirmed, but it is believed to be the head of Mercedes’ cybersecurity partner, CrowdStrike.
If finalized, this deal would mark the highest valuation ever for a Formula 1 team, surpassing the $4.
The governance structure will stay the same.
Toto Wolff is reportedly in talks to sell a small portion of his one-third ownership in the Mercedes Formula 1 team, in a deal that could set a record valuation for the reigning champions. The Financial Times states that the Mercedes team, jointly owned by Wolff, Mercedes-Benz, and the British chemicals giant INEOS, is currently valued at approximately $5.6 billion.
The report suggests that Wolff is contemplating selling around 5% of his personal stake, reducing his ownership to about 28%. The identity of the buyer remains unconfirmed, but it is believed to be the head of Mercedes’ cybersecurity partner, CrowdStrike.
If finalized, this deal would mark the highest valuation ever for a Formula 1 team, surpassing the $4.
McLaren is adding more complexity to its situation.
Vettel calls for ‘peace and quiet’ for struggling Piastri
Oscar Piastri’s championship opportunity seems to be slipping away, as momentum—despite Lando Norris denying its existence—definitely shifts towards his McLaren teammate. Following a perfect weekend in Brazil, where Norris increased his lead to 24 points, the championship leader told RTBF that he is keeping his feet on the ground. "I don’t believe in momentum," he stated. "But it was a fantastic weekend for me. I was able to make the most of every session, and I’m very pleased—the whole team did well. However, I’m heading home, going to sleep, and I’ll put this behind me to focus on Las Vegas."
Once seen as the calm and collected favorite for the title, Piastri has faced a tough period and rising speculation about possible favoritism within McLaren.
Vettel calls for ‘peace and quiet’ for struggling Piastri
Oscar Piastri’s championship opportunity seems to be slipping away, as momentum—despite Lando Norris denying its existence—definitely shifts towards his McLaren teammate. Following a perfect weekend in Brazil, where Norris increased his lead to 24 points, the championship leader told RTBF that he is keeping his feet on the ground. "I don’t believe in momentum," he stated. "But it was a fantastic weekend for me. I was able to make the most of every session, and I’m very pleased—the whole team did well. However, I’m heading home, going to sleep, and I’ll put this behind me to focus on Las Vegas."
Once seen as the calm and collected favorite for the title, Piastri has faced a tough period and rising speculation about possible favoritism within McLaren.
The Paris Court of First Instance is set to deliver its ruling on December 3 regarding the legal action initiated by Swiss racing driver Laura Villars against the FIA, in relation to the governing body's presidential election. Villars, who has announced her candidacy to oppose the current president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, is disputing FIA regulations that she argues render it "impossible" for outsiders to conduct a legitimate campaign. Her lawsuit requests a postponement of the election until the matter is settled, although the FIA vote is still planned for December 12 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Italian media reacts strongly following Elkann's criticism of drivers.
"The types of scandals Ferrari meticulously sidesteps"
Ferrari president John Elkann’s remarkable public reprimand of his Formula 1 drivers continues to make headlines in Italy, sparking debate among the country’s leading sports newspapers. Following his remarks in Milan that Ferrari’s drivers should "speak less" and "consider not just themselves, but also Ferrari," many in the paddock speculate that Elkann’s frustrations were primarily directed at Lewis Hamilton.
In Corriere della Sera, Daniele Sparisci commented that the presidential criticism "was directed specifically at Lewis." He observed, "Some of Charles’s remarks might have been irritating, but the real message was for Hamilton. The honeymoon phase is over."
"Elkann is frustrated with his performance and certain attitudes.
"The types of scandals Ferrari meticulously sidesteps"
Ferrari president John Elkann’s remarkable public reprimand of his Formula 1 drivers continues to make headlines in Italy, sparking debate among the country’s leading sports newspapers. Following his remarks in Milan that Ferrari’s drivers should "speak less" and "consider not just themselves, but also Ferrari," many in the paddock speculate that Elkann’s frustrations were primarily directed at Lewis Hamilton.
In Corriere della Sera, Daniele Sparisci commented that the presidential criticism "was directed specifically at Lewis." He observed, "Some of Charles’s remarks might have been irritating, but the real message was for Hamilton. The honeymoon phase is over."
"Elkann is frustrated with his performance and certain attitudes.
Ford's involvement in F1 is 'more than just marketing' as the launch is scheduled.
"For two years, we explored every possibility."
Red Bull and Ford will formally announce their partnership for the 2026 Formula 1 season on January 15 at Ford's global headquarters in Detroit, Michigan. This event signifies the beginning of a new hybrid era for the leading team and its affiliated Racing Bulls operation.
The launch will introduce the Red Bull Ford Powertrains brand, which will provide power units for both teams starting in 2026, in accordance with F1’s next-generation engine regulations that incorporate 50 percent electric power and completely sustainable fuels.
Mark Rushbrook, the head of Ford Performance, stated that this partnership represents a significant, long-term commitment. "We have signed an eight-year agreement with Red Bull, lasting until the end of 2030," he confirmed.
"For two years, we explored every possibility."
Red Bull and Ford will formally announce their partnership for the 2026 Formula 1 season on January 15 at Ford's global headquarters in Detroit, Michigan. This event signifies the beginning of a new hybrid era for the leading team and its affiliated Racing Bulls operation.
The launch will introduce the Red Bull Ford Powertrains brand, which will provide power units for both teams starting in 2026, in accordance with F1’s next-generation engine regulations that incorporate 50 percent electric power and completely sustainable fuels.
Mark Rushbrook, the head of Ford Performance, stated that this partnership represents a significant, long-term commitment. "We have signed an eight-year agreement with Red Bull, lasting until the end of 2030," he confirmed.
Commenting on Ferrari's disappointing weekend in São Paulo on Viaplay, Lewis Hamilton hoped for better in the future…
Lewis Hamilton: "I think it would be wrong to say there aren't any positives at all. If you look at Charles's performance in qualifying, it becomes clear that the car has pace.
We're having to deal with a number of problems, but I believe that these difficulties lead to... I believe that something extraordinary lies ahead in my life and my destiny, and I still sincerely believe in this team and that we can achieve a lot together. We need to keep fighting and give it our all."
Lewis Hamilton: "I think it would be wrong to say there aren't any positives at all. If you look at Charles's performance in qualifying, it becomes clear that the car has pace.
We're having to deal with a number of problems, but I believe that these difficulties lead to... I believe that something extraordinary lies ahead in my life and my destiny, and I still sincerely believe in this team and that we can achieve a lot together. We need to keep fighting and give it our all."
The words of Ferrari president John Elkann, directed at the Scuderia's drivers after the São Paulo Grand Prix, provoked a mixed reaction in the racing world.
Recall that Elkann literally said the following: “Our drivers need to think more about driving and talk less.” The response from Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton came fairly quickly – both drivers posted messages on social media expressing support for the team.
The Italian press believes that Elkann's words were mainly aimed at Lewis Hamilton, whose results so far are below those of his teammate.
However, Elkann's harsh remark was not to everyone's liking. 2009 world champion Jenson Button, commenting on the Ferrari president's words on social media, wrote the following: “Maybe John should set an example.” That message drew largely positive reactions from fans.
In turn, the Italian team's press office tried to soften their president's words. In comments to ESPN a Ferrari representative said that Elkann's comments were “constructive,” and that he simply wanted to encourage everyone.
At the same time, ESPN noted that this was a “rather indulgent interpretation of Elkann's public statement, which came across as uncertainty or arrogance (or a terrible combination of both) from the head of a company that has not won a drivers' title since 2007 and the constructors' championship since 2008. His words revealed the same unwarranted top-down interference that has plagued the team before and after the glorious days of Michael Schumacher.”
Recall that Elkann literally said the following: “Our drivers need to think more about driving and talk less.” The response from Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton came fairly quickly – both drivers posted messages on social media expressing support for the team.
The Italian press believes that Elkann's words were mainly aimed at Lewis Hamilton, whose results so far are below those of his teammate.
However, Elkann's harsh remark was not to everyone's liking. 2009 world champion Jenson Button, commenting on the Ferrari president's words on social media, wrote the following: “Maybe John should set an example.” That message drew largely positive reactions from fans.
In turn, the Italian team's press office tried to soften their president's words. In comments to ESPN a Ferrari representative said that Elkann's comments were “constructive,” and that he simply wanted to encourage everyone.
At the same time, ESPN noted that this was a “rather indulgent interpretation of Elkann's public statement, which came across as uncertainty or arrogance (or a terrible combination of both) from the head of a company that has not won a drivers' title since 2007 and the constructors' championship since 2008. His words revealed the same unwarranted top-down interference that has plagued the team before and after the glorious days of Michael Schumacher.”
People often say that a race's official classification tells the exact story of the results, but Red Bull Racing team principal Laurent Mekies thinks Yuki Tsunoda did not deserve last place in Interlagos…
Laurent Mekies: "A disappointing result. Yuki lost a lot of time due to the collision with Stroll, received a 10‑second penalty, and then we made a mistake in the pits and he was given another 10 seconds. Very frustrating.
Yuki drove the race well and did not deserve last place. He drove the final stint on a clear track very strongly. You can imagine how he might have finished if you subtract two ten‑second penalties from his result. It would have been a respectable fight for points.
But the result is what it is, so we can only take credit for his last good stint on a clear track."
Laurent Mekies: "A disappointing result. Yuki lost a lot of time due to the collision with Stroll, received a 10‑second penalty, and then we made a mistake in the pits and he was given another 10 seconds. Very frustrating.
Yuki drove the race well and did not deserve last place. He drove the final stint on a clear track very strongly. You can imagine how he might have finished if you subtract two ten‑second penalties from his result. It would have been a respectable fight for points.
But the result is what it is, so we can only take credit for his last good stint on a clear track."