Grand Pro Circuit Appears to Be the Nostalgic F1 Racing Simulation We've Always Desired
Mascot Entertainment via Steam
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With so many indie racing games available, making a mark can be challenging. However, Grand Pro Circuit—which, to be frank, could use a more appealing name—looks fantastic. The trailer just launched on Steam, and I added it to my wishlist simply based on its vibe.
It's easy to reminisce about retro racing games and label them as charming and not serious, but developers were genuinely attempting to push the boundaries with the technology they had. Projects like Grand Pro Circuit remind me of that effort.
Mascot Entertainment via Steam
The latest in car news and reviews, straight to the point.
Our daily newsletter, free of charge, delivers the important stories right to your inbox every weekday.
With so many indie racing games available, making a mark can be challenging. However, Grand Pro Circuit—which, to be frank, could use a more appealing name—looks fantastic. The trailer just launched on Steam, and I added it to my wishlist simply based on its vibe.
It's easy to reminisce about retro racing games and label them as charming and not serious, but developers were genuinely attempting to push the boundaries with the technology they had. Projects like Grand Pro Circuit remind me of that effort.
FIA increases F1 Super Licence points for IndyCar.
Strongly enhanced rewards for top-five championship placements
The FIA has announced an increase in Formula 1 Super Licence points for IndyCar, a long-awaited modification that comes as Colton Herta requires an F2 season this year to secure a 2027 Cadillac seat. This decision was approved during the FIA World Motor Sport Council meeting held in Tashkent.
In its announcement, the governing body stated: "The points awarded for the IndyCar Series have been elevated for positions from 3rd to 9th to acknowledge the growing importance of the category."
The updated structure provides significantly greater rewards for top-five championship finishes. Third place now receives 25 points (up from 20), while fourth place increases from 10 to 20 points, and fifth rises from 8 to 15 points. Sixth place remains at 10 points, and ninth has been adjusted from 2 to 3 points.
Strongly enhanced rewards for top-five championship placements
The FIA has announced an increase in Formula 1 Super Licence points for IndyCar, a long-awaited modification that comes as Colton Herta requires an F2 season this year to secure a 2027 Cadillac seat. This decision was approved during the FIA World Motor Sport Council meeting held in Tashkent.
In its announcement, the governing body stated: "The points awarded for the IndyCar Series have been elevated for positions from 3rd to 9th to acknowledge the growing importance of the category."
The updated structure provides significantly greater rewards for top-five championship finishes. Third place now receives 25 points (up from 20), while fourth place increases from 10 to 20 points, and fifth rises from 8 to 15 points. Sixth place remains at 10 points, and ninth has been adjusted from 2 to 3 points.
Marko refutes claims that Red Bull compelled his departure as more information comes to light.
Dr. Helmut Marko asserts that his exit from Red Bull was a voluntary decision, countering claims that he was forced out after a two-decade tenure with the firm. In an interview with RTL, the 82-year-old stated, "No, I was by no means pressured to leave." He elaborated that the moment he decided to step down was during the Abu Dhabi finale, saying, "That was the point where I told myself, this is the right time to stop."
Marko mentioned he met with Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff in Dubai on Monday. "I conveyed my desire. After some discussion, he accepted it. He attempted to convince me otherwise, but recognized that I was firm in my decision," he explained.
Dr. Helmut Marko asserts that his exit from Red Bull was a voluntary decision, countering claims that he was forced out after a two-decade tenure with the firm. In an interview with RTL, the 82-year-old stated, "No, I was by no means pressured to leave." He elaborated that the moment he decided to step down was during the Abu Dhabi finale, saying, "That was the point where I told myself, this is the right time to stop."
Marko mentioned he met with Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff in Dubai on Monday. "I conveyed my desire. After some discussion, he accepted it. He attempted to convince me otherwise, but recognized that I was firm in my decision," he explained.
Rovanpera stopped by dizziness, Doohan associated with Haas.
"The doctor instructed me to cease driving."
Kalle Rovanpera's highly anticipated debut test in Super Formula at Suzuka was abruptly halted after the Finnish driver was diagnosed with benign positional vertigo. The 25-year-old former world rally champion managed to complete 32 laps in the morning session before he had to withdraw. "During my lunch break, I started experiencing symptoms of benign positional vertigo, which impacts my balance," he stated. "The doctor instructed me to cease driving," Rovanpera told Iltalehti. He later added, "Doctors have prohibited me from driving for the remainder of the week. I’m really disappointed that we didn’t get to engage in any significant driving apart from our aerodynamic test this morning.
"The doctor instructed me to cease driving."
Kalle Rovanpera's highly anticipated debut test in Super Formula at Suzuka was abruptly halted after the Finnish driver was diagnosed with benign positional vertigo. The 25-year-old former world rally champion managed to complete 32 laps in the morning session before he had to withdraw. "During my lunch break, I started experiencing symptoms of benign positional vertigo, which impacts my balance," he stated. "The doctor instructed me to cease driving," Rovanpera told Iltalehti. He later added, "Doctors have prohibited me from driving for the remainder of the week. I’m really disappointed that we didn’t get to engage in any significant driving apart from our aerodynamic test this morning.
Prost claims Verstappen remains the top driver of 2025.
Ralf Schumacher and Alain Prost both assert that Max Verstappen was the standout driver of 2025, even though he lost the title to Lando Norris, as uncertainty continues about the future of Verstappen’s race engineer.
Referring to Gianpiero Lambiase, Ralf mentioned on Sky Deutschland that there are "rumors in the paddock regarding his personal situation," cautioning that there is a possibility 'GP' may not return in 2026.
"We don’t know what’s happening," Schumacher stated. "That’s why there’s a risk he won’t be present next year. Naturally, we hope not. This would be a significant blow for Max Verstappen." He emphasized that Lambiase’s role in Verstappen’s success is irreplaceable.
"You can observe it on the radio. Lambiase is someone who can tell ‘Max, take it easy. Don’t be so childish and concentrate.’ That really works well.
Ralf Schumacher and Alain Prost both assert that Max Verstappen was the standout driver of 2025, even though he lost the title to Lando Norris, as uncertainty continues about the future of Verstappen’s race engineer.
Referring to Gianpiero Lambiase, Ralf mentioned on Sky Deutschland that there are "rumors in the paddock regarding his personal situation," cautioning that there is a possibility 'GP' may not return in 2026.
"We don’t know what’s happening," Schumacher stated. "That’s why there’s a risk he won’t be present next year. Naturally, we hope not. This would be a significant blow for Max Verstappen." He emphasized that Lambiase’s role in Verstappen’s success is irreplaceable.
"You can observe it on the radio. Lambiase is someone who can tell ‘Max, take it easy. Don’t be so childish and concentrate.’ That really works well.
Alonso discusses the rustiness he experienced after his comeback.
Fernando Alonso has shared an honest insight regarding the mental struggles of staying motivated in years without wins, along with the unexpected "slowness" he experienced upon returning to Formula 1 after a break. In an interview with DAZN, nearly twenty years post his second and final championship, the 44-year-old veteran discussed the internal dialogues and determination necessary when results are lacking.
“When you haven’t won in a while and don’t have the right equipment, like I did in recent years with the car, you have to engage in conversations with yourself, often,” he stated. “At home, you have to push yourself to train alone.
Fernando Alonso has shared an honest insight regarding the mental struggles of staying motivated in years without wins, along with the unexpected "slowness" he experienced upon returning to Formula 1 after a break. In an interview with DAZN, nearly twenty years post his second and final championship, the 44-year-old veteran discussed the internal dialogues and determination necessary when results are lacking.
“When you haven’t won in a while and don’t have the right equipment, like I did in recent years with the car, you have to engage in conversations with yourself, often,” he stated. “At home, you have to push yourself to train alone.
Arrivabene labels Hamilton-style engineer dossiers as 'ineffectual.'
Maurizio Arrivabene has criticized Lewis Hamilton for his tendency to send detailed technical "dossiers" to Ferrari, which he believes is counterproductive and lacks historical significance. Hamilton's method of offering engineering suggestions has reportedly frustrated some members of the proud Maranello team during the challenging 2025 season.
Speaking on Sky Italia’s Race Anatomy, Arrivabene recalled similar behavior from Sebastian Vettel's time, stating, "Vettel sent out such dossiers. He wrote, talked, and shared everything. But it was nearly futile. I don't intend to speak negatively about Sebastian, but everyone should stick to their role. A driver’s responsibilities extend beyond just driving; they should also contribute to car development. However, when they start acting as engineers, it’s time to turn off the lights.
Maurizio Arrivabene has criticized Lewis Hamilton for his tendency to send detailed technical "dossiers" to Ferrari, which he believes is counterproductive and lacks historical significance. Hamilton's method of offering engineering suggestions has reportedly frustrated some members of the proud Maranello team during the challenging 2025 season.
Speaking on Sky Italia’s Race Anatomy, Arrivabene recalled similar behavior from Sebastian Vettel's time, stating, "Vettel sent out such dossiers. He wrote, talked, and shared everything. But it was nearly futile. I don't intend to speak negatively about Sebastian, but everyone should stick to their role. A driver’s responsibilities extend beyond just driving; they should also contribute to car development. However, when they start acting as engineers, it’s time to turn off the lights.
Premature betting favorites for the 2026 F1 World Championship
Attention has shifted to the upcoming season.
Lando Norris achieved his dream in Abu Dhabi by maintaining his composure to secure his first Formula One World Championship. The young British driver arrived at the title decider in a strong position, leading Max Verstappen by a slim 12 points, which ultimately proved to be sufficient for him to clinch the title. At one point during the season, the reigning four-time world champion from the Netherlands was a staggering 104 points behind the championship leader and was considered a 100/1 long shot for the title. However, he began to close that gap effectively, winning five of the last eight races leading up to the finale in the Arabian Gulf.
Attention has shifted to the upcoming season.
Lando Norris achieved his dream in Abu Dhabi by maintaining his composure to secure his first Formula One World Championship. The young British driver arrived at the title decider in a strong position, leading Max Verstappen by a slim 12 points, which ultimately proved to be sufficient for him to clinch the title. At one point during the season, the reigning four-time world champion from the Netherlands was a staggering 104 points behind the championship leader and was considered a 100/1 long shot for the title. However, he began to close that gap effectively, winning five of the last eight races leading up to the finale in the Arabian Gulf.
Wolff: Mercedes will reduce customer teams following 2026.
"It is contingent upon the development of the new regulations."
Mercedes appears poised to conclude its phase of providing nearly half the Formula 1 grid with power units. The factory team was outperformed in 2024 and 2025 by the customer team and consecutive constructors’ champions, McLaren. With Alpine integrating into the Mercedes group in 2026, the German manufacturer will supply power units to four teams next year: Mercedes, McLaren, Williams, and Alpine. Meanwhile, Aston Martin will transition to Honda.
However, team principal and co-owner Wolff indicated that the company is no longer interested in maintaining such an extensive customer program beyond the upcoming engine regulatory cycle. "Our current intention, which I've discussed with Ola (Kallenius), is to decrease the number of customer teams we will support in the next cycle," he stated.
"It is contingent upon the development of the new regulations."
Mercedes appears poised to conclude its phase of providing nearly half the Formula 1 grid with power units. The factory team was outperformed in 2024 and 2025 by the customer team and consecutive constructors’ champions, McLaren. With Alpine integrating into the Mercedes group in 2026, the German manufacturer will supply power units to four teams next year: Mercedes, McLaren, Williams, and Alpine. Meanwhile, Aston Martin will transition to Honda.
However, team principal and co-owner Wolff indicated that the company is no longer interested in maintaining such an extensive customer program beyond the upcoming engine regulatory cycle. "Our current intention, which I've discussed with Ola (Kallenius), is to decrease the number of customer teams we will support in the next cycle," he stated.
Leclerc allowed to consider options at the beginning of 2026 - report
"Next year will be crucial"
Despite having a contract with Ferrari until 2029, new rumors indicate that Charles Leclerc may be a candidate in the driver market as soon as next season. Reportedly, Giuliano Duchessa, a well-connected Italian insider, claims that Leclerc will be permitted to "evaluate his options" following the initial phase of the 2026 championship, according to Austria’s Osterreich. McLaren is reportedly particularly interested, with Aston Martin also keeping an eye on the situation.
This aligns with the current atmosphere in the paddock, where Oscar Piastri and Mark Webber have expressed private frustration regarding McLaren's increasing favoritism towards newly crowned champion Lando Norris, as teams look to the 2026 rules reset as a fresh starting point for competition.
"Next year will be crucial"
Despite having a contract with Ferrari until 2029, new rumors indicate that Charles Leclerc may be a candidate in the driver market as soon as next season. Reportedly, Giuliano Duchessa, a well-connected Italian insider, claims that Leclerc will be permitted to "evaluate his options" following the initial phase of the 2026 championship, according to Austria’s Osterreich. McLaren is reportedly particularly interested, with Aston Martin also keeping an eye on the situation.
This aligns with the current atmosphere in the paddock, where Oscar Piastri and Mark Webber have expressed private frustration regarding McLaren's increasing favoritism towards newly crowned champion Lando Norris, as teams look to the 2026 rules reset as a fresh starting point for competition.
Report: Audi and Alpine will be the first to test their 2026 cars.
Filming Days at Montmelo
The first run of the new 2026 Formula 1 cars is set to occur sooner than anticipated. Grada3 reports that Audi and Alpine have received FIA approval to commence shakedown testing in Barcelona during the second week of January, well ahead of the scheduled closed-door group test at the end of the month.
According to the Spanish outlet, Audi will kick off the new regulations on January 9, utilizing a filming day at Montmelo to log the initial kilometers on its newly branded works car. Alpine is expected to follow suit on January 11 with the new Mercedes-powered A526, prior to the team's planned launch on January 23.
Filming Days at Montmelo
The first run of the new 2026 Formula 1 cars is set to occur sooner than anticipated. Grada3 reports that Audi and Alpine have received FIA approval to commence shakedown testing in Barcelona during the second week of January, well ahead of the scheduled closed-door group test at the end of the month.
According to the Spanish outlet, Audi will kick off the new regulations on January 9, utilizing a filming day at Montmelo to log the initial kilometers on its newly branded works car. Alpine is expected to follow suit on January 11 with the new Mercedes-powered A526, prior to the team's planned launch on January 23.
Bottas joins Cadillac as the team leader clarifies the decision.
Valtteri Bottas concluded his responsibilities with Mercedes on Sunday night and was already at Cadillac’s Silverstone facility by Monday, where he began familiarization with the 2026 monocoque, initial seat-fitting, and integration discussions for the new project.
Team principal Graeme Lowdon shared with Ilta-Sanomat that choosing the Finnish driver was among the easiest decisions made during the entire program. "Valtteri's qualifying speed is well recognized," Lowdon remarked. "He has consistently outperformed his teammate throughout his career. Through him, we gain a reliable benchmark for the car's actual performance."
Given the uncertainty surrounding the 2026 regulation reset and each team's initial positioning, Cadillac sought a stable reference point in a driver.
Valtteri Bottas concluded his responsibilities with Mercedes on Sunday night and was already at Cadillac’s Silverstone facility by Monday, where he began familiarization with the 2026 monocoque, initial seat-fitting, and integration discussions for the new project.
Team principal Graeme Lowdon shared with Ilta-Sanomat that choosing the Finnish driver was among the easiest decisions made during the entire program. "Valtteri's qualifying speed is well recognized," Lowdon remarked. "He has consistently outperformed his teammate throughout his career. Through him, we gain a reliable benchmark for the car's actual performance."
Given the uncertainty surrounding the 2026 regulation reset and each team's initial positioning, Cadillac sought a stable reference point in a driver.
Vettel commends Marko amidst speculation about succession.
Sebastian Vettel has re-entered the discussion as the abrupt departure of Dr. Helmut Marko from Red Bull continues to make headlines. While reports from Sky Deutschland indicate that Red Bull does not intend to appoint a successor for Marko’s advisory position, the 82-year-old left the possibility open upon leaving. "My suggestion is irrelevant," he stated. "Red Bull decides everything. There are many names mentioned, but no decisions have been made yet."
Ralf Schumacher has since added to the speculation. In an interview with sport.de, he asserted that Red Bull will fill the open position. "An era is coming to an end," remarked the former F1 driver. "This applies to the entire youth program. There are rumors about who will take over, and it’s a commendable choice. However, I can’t reveal who it is.
Sebastian Vettel has re-entered the discussion as the abrupt departure of Dr. Helmut Marko from Red Bull continues to make headlines. While reports from Sky Deutschland indicate that Red Bull does not intend to appoint a successor for Marko’s advisory position, the 82-year-old left the possibility open upon leaving. "My suggestion is irrelevant," he stated. "Red Bull decides everything. There are many names mentioned, but no decisions have been made yet."
Ralf Schumacher has since added to the speculation. In an interview with sport.de, he asserted that Red Bull will fill the open position. "An era is coming to an end," remarked the former F1 driver. "This applies to the entire youth program. There are rumors about who will take over, and it’s a commendable choice. However, I can’t reveal who it is.
Ben Sulayem stands by the FIA election procedure.
"You must go out and meet people."
Mohammed Ben Sulayem has responded to criticism and legal challenges as FIA member clubs were set to vote in Tashkent on Friday to confirm him for a second four-year term as president. Several candidates tried to oppose him but were blocked by the FIA's contentious eligibility procedures, leading to accusations of a rigged process and even emergency legal action. None were successful, leaving Ben Sulayem virtually unopposed.
In an interview with AFP on the eve of the election, the Emirati remained unapologetic. When asked why alternative candidates were not able to present their programs to the federation, he retorted, "Why didn’t these candidates go to Latin America to promote their program? You have to go out and meet people, earn their trust to support your candidacy. That’s democracy, for goodness’ sake.
"You must go out and meet people."
Mohammed Ben Sulayem has responded to criticism and legal challenges as FIA member clubs were set to vote in Tashkent on Friday to confirm him for a second four-year term as president. Several candidates tried to oppose him but were blocked by the FIA's contentious eligibility procedures, leading to accusations of a rigged process and even emergency legal action. None were successful, leaving Ben Sulayem virtually unopposed.
In an interview with AFP on the eve of the election, the Emirati remained unapologetic. When asked why alternative candidates were not able to present their programs to the federation, he retorted, "Why didn’t these candidates go to Latin America to promote their program? You have to go out and meet people, earn their trust to support your candidacy. That’s democracy, for goodness’ sake.
Tsunoda suggests unexpected strategies from Red Bull for 2026.
Yuki Tsunoda expressed that he was taken by surprise by Red Bull’s choice to remove him from the 2026 race lineup and suspects the decision might have changed right before it was announced. In an interview with DAZN Japan, Tsunoda stated, "The news was different from what I had previously been informed, so it came as a shock. I've been told that the decision might have been altered just before I was notified."
The 25-year-old also discussed the difficulties of entering Red Bull’s environment mid-season, noting that the performance disparity with Max Verstappen’s side wasn’t entirely as it seemed. "My engineering team is quite skilled, but they lack experience, which sometimes meant we needed assistance. However, I couldn't always request it," the Japanese driver mentioned.
Yuki Tsunoda expressed that he was taken by surprise by Red Bull’s choice to remove him from the 2026 race lineup and suspects the decision might have changed right before it was announced. In an interview with DAZN Japan, Tsunoda stated, "The news was different from what I had previously been informed, so it came as a shock. I've been told that the decision might have been altered just before I was notified."
The 25-year-old also discussed the difficulties of entering Red Bull’s environment mid-season, noting that the performance disparity with Max Verstappen’s side wasn’t entirely as it seemed. "My engineering team is quite skilled, but they lack experience, which sometimes meant we needed assistance. However, I couldn't always request it," the Japanese driver mentioned.
The psychology behind decision-making under pressure in Formula 1.
Why Split-Second Thinking Shapes Modern F1
Formula 1 is the intersection of sheer speed and advanced technology. Drivers navigate at velocities over 300 km/h, handling a continuous influx of data regarding vehicle performance and track conditions, essentially operating a mobile command center for information. Decisions must be made in mere fractions of a second; even a minor delay in reacting to an opponent's maneuver or adjusting to rain can determine the outcome of a race. The mental pressures in F1 are akin to high-stakes situations, similar to making quick decisions in competitive environments like selecting options from top sportsbooks in Quebec, where timely evaluations can make the difference between victories and defeats.
Why Split-Second Thinking Shapes Modern F1
Formula 1 is the intersection of sheer speed and advanced technology. Drivers navigate at velocities over 300 km/h, handling a continuous influx of data regarding vehicle performance and track conditions, essentially operating a mobile command center for information. Decisions must be made in mere fractions of a second; even a minor delay in reacting to an opponent's maneuver or adjusting to rain can determine the outcome of a race. The mental pressures in F1 are akin to high-stakes situations, similar to making quick decisions in competitive environments like selecting options from top sportsbooks in Quebec, where timely evaluations can make the difference between victories and defeats.
Rovanpera's dizziness issue is anticipated to be temporary.
"There are numerous options for treatment."
Kalle Rovanpera’s transition from rallying to single-seater racing is not thought to be in jeopardy despite the dizziness episode that cut his Super Formula test short, according to Ilta Sanomat. His manager Timo Jouhki stated that the diagnosis of benign positional vertigo likely means the running at Suzuka is "very likely over," but emphasized that the 25-year-old has no restrictions in his daily life. "This could be a result of a mix of stress and fatigue, and it can happen in nearly any scenario," he noted. "He underwent both a scan and consultation with a specialist."
"Naturally, you can't go to the racetrack if there's even the slightest indication that such a situation may have occurred." Jouhki mentioned that Rovanpera has received "good treatment" and does not anticipate a lengthy absence.
"There are numerous options for treatment."
Kalle Rovanpera’s transition from rallying to single-seater racing is not thought to be in jeopardy despite the dizziness episode that cut his Super Formula test short, according to Ilta Sanomat. His manager Timo Jouhki stated that the diagnosis of benign positional vertigo likely means the running at Suzuka is "very likely over," but emphasized that the 25-year-old has no restrictions in his daily life. "This could be a result of a mix of stress and fatigue, and it can happen in nearly any scenario," he noted. "He underwent both a scan and consultation with a specialist."
"Naturally, you can't go to the racetrack if there's even the slightest indication that such a situation may have occurred." Jouhki mentioned that Rovanpera has received "good treatment" and does not anticipate a lengthy absence.
Lance Stroll 'doesn't deserve to be in Formula 1 any longer.'
Ralf Schumacher has intensified his criticism of Lance Stroll after another season where the Canadian was significantly outperformed by Aston Martin teammate Fernando Alonso. In an interview with Sky Deutschland, Schumacher stated that Stroll's performance in 2025 is "no longer acceptable" for someone in a top driving position.
"What he’s doing is no longer sufficient to retain his seat," the German commented, referring to the 27-year-old Stroll, whose billionaire father, Lawrence, is the owner of the Silverstone-based team.
"Honestly, when I see how well the Formula 2 winner has performed, he deserves a car like that a thousand times over," he added, praising the new McLaren junior, Leonardo Fornaroli.
Ralf Schumacher has intensified his criticism of Lance Stroll after another season where the Canadian was significantly outperformed by Aston Martin teammate Fernando Alonso. In an interview with Sky Deutschland, Schumacher stated that Stroll's performance in 2025 is "no longer acceptable" for someone in a top driving position.
"What he’s doing is no longer sufficient to retain his seat," the German commented, referring to the 27-year-old Stroll, whose billionaire father, Lawrence, is the owner of the Silverstone-based team.
"Honestly, when I see how well the Formula 2 winner has performed, he deserves a car like that a thousand times over," he added, praising the new McLaren junior, Leonardo Fornaroli.
Concorde Agreement has been signed, and Ben Sulayem has been re-elected.
"Equity, stability, and collective aspiration"
The long-term future of Formula 1 was officially secured last Friday in Tashkent as the FIA, Formula 1 Group, and all 11 teams signed the ninth Concorde Agreement, ensuring governance and participation through the end of the decade. The agreement, signed during the FIA General Assembly and awards week in Uzbekistan, finalizes the framework initially established earlier this year regarding the commercial aspects, confirming grid stability until 2030, which includes the addition of the Cadillac team. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem remarked that the agreement brings "equity, stability, and collective ambition," while F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali referred to it as "a significant day," ensuring the sport can continue its global expansion.
"Equity, stability, and collective aspiration"
The long-term future of Formula 1 was officially secured last Friday in Tashkent as the FIA, Formula 1 Group, and all 11 teams signed the ninth Concorde Agreement, ensuring governance and participation through the end of the decade. The agreement, signed during the FIA General Assembly and awards week in Uzbekistan, finalizes the framework initially established earlier this year regarding the commercial aspects, confirming grid stability until 2030, which includes the addition of the Cadillac team. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem remarked that the agreement brings "equity, stability, and collective ambition," while F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali referred to it as "a significant day," ensuring the sport can continue its global expansion.
Vowles states that Williams intends to be the first team to unveil their car for 2026.
"We will likely be the first team to begin that early."
Williams is striving to complete its 2026 Formula 1 car well ahead of its competitors as the race against time heats up in preparation for the new rules era. While the first group test is set for late January in Barcelona, team principal James Vowles states that Williams aims to have the entire car ready at the very beginning of the month. "The complete car needs to be available for the VTT test bench at the start of January," Vowles informed Auto Motor und Sport. "We will likely be the first team to start that early. We don’t want to be caught off guard again, as we were in 2023.
"We will likely be the first team to begin that early."
Williams is striving to complete its 2026 Formula 1 car well ahead of its competitors as the race against time heats up in preparation for the new rules era. While the first group test is set for late January in Barcelona, team principal James Vowles states that Williams aims to have the entire car ready at the very beginning of the month. "The complete car needs to be available for the VTT test bench at the start of January," Vowles informed Auto Motor und Sport. "We will likely be the first team to start that early. We don’t want to be caught off guard again, as we were in 2023.