The Drive Awards: The Top Truck of 2026 Is the Rivian R1T Quad
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While America may be stepping back from electric vehicles for a bit, there's no doubt that the reigning pickup truck champion is a startup offering: The Rivian R1T Quad.
This second-gen R1T won our pickup truck showdown decisively, earning The Drive’s Best Truck title for 2026. Why? Simply put, it exemplifies the ideal combination of excellence coming together to create perfection.
The Rivian R1T Quad strikes the perfect balance more than any other truck we drove in the past year, covering the needs for work and play while bringing smiles-per-mile, all while remaining practical and capable.
The latest in car news and reviews, no nonsense
Our free daily newsletter delivers the most important stories straight to you every weekday.
While America may be stepping back from electric vehicles for a bit, there's no doubt that the reigning pickup truck champion is a startup offering: The Rivian R1T Quad.
This second-gen R1T won our pickup truck showdown decisively, earning The Drive’s Best Truck title for 2026. Why? Simply put, it exemplifies the ideal combination of excellence coming together to create perfection.
The Rivian R1T Quad strikes the perfect balance more than any other truck we drove in the past year, covering the needs for work and play while bringing smiles-per-mile, all while remaining practical and capable.
Aston unveils revolutionary car designed by Newey, while Mercedes delivers a 'surprise'.
"The W17 is performing well."
Aston Martin made its entry into Formula 1's Barcelona shakedown late Thursday, revealing a remarkably innovative 2026 car that stands in stark contrast to the completely absent Williams team. The Silverstone-based squad arrived late Wednesday night, and their car took to the track late Thursday in a bare carbon finish with no sponsorship decals. Lance Stroll managed to complete what a team spokesperson described as "a handful" of laps, although this included a breakdown.
Despite the limited running, the design attracted attention.
"The W17 is performing well."
Aston Martin made its entry into Formula 1's Barcelona shakedown late Thursday, revealing a remarkably innovative 2026 car that stands in stark contrast to the completely absent Williams team. The Silverstone-based squad arrived late Wednesday night, and their car took to the track late Thursday in a bare carbon finish with no sponsorship decals. Lance Stroll managed to complete what a team spokesperson described as "a handful" of laps, although this included a breakdown.
Despite the limited running, the design attracted attention.
Red Bull cautions that regulations might secure an engine advantage.
"Certain components require 12 weeks for production."
Ben Hodgkinson has cautioned that the 2026 power unit regulations in Formula 1 may inadvertently entrench an early competitive advantage, as there is an increasing sense in the paddock that Mercedes could already be establishing a clear standard. As 'shakedown week' in Barcelona nears its conclusion, the head of the Red Bull-Ford engine division stated that the FIA's homologation rules might unintentionally favor manufacturers that start off strong, offering limited chances for others to catch up.
"I would personally prefer to eliminate the homologation system and compete at full capacity without any restrictions," Hodgkinson remarked. "That is my genuine wish. With existing cost caps and limits on dyno time, I believe there are sufficient constraints already in place.
"Certain components require 12 weeks for production."
Ben Hodgkinson has cautioned that the 2026 power unit regulations in Formula 1 may inadvertently entrench an early competitive advantage, as there is an increasing sense in the paddock that Mercedes could already be establishing a clear standard. As 'shakedown week' in Barcelona nears its conclusion, the head of the Red Bull-Ford engine division stated that the FIA's homologation rules might unintentionally favor manufacturers that start off strong, offering limited chances for others to catch up.
"I would personally prefer to eliminate the homologation system and compete at full capacity without any restrictions," Hodgkinson remarked. "That is my genuine wish. With existing cost caps and limits on dyno time, I believe there are sufficient constraints already in place.
Horner goes to FIA, Ralf believes Alpine agreement is 'finalized'
"Someone like Christian would desire a genuine role."
Christian Horner has sparked further speculation regarding his Formula 1 future after being seen at the FIA’s Paris headquarters for discussions with president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. This meeting comes shortly after Flavio Briatore revealed that Horner and his supporters are among those looking into acquiring the 24 percent stake in Otro Capital related to Alpine.
While some rumors hint that the former Red Bull boss might contemplate other paths back into Formula 1—like an improbable scenario involving Racing Bulls, or even talks concerning a potential future 12th team slot—the Alpine situation continues to gain traction.
Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher believes the decision has already been made.
"Someone like Christian would desire a genuine role."
Christian Horner has sparked further speculation regarding his Formula 1 future after being seen at the FIA’s Paris headquarters for discussions with president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. This meeting comes shortly after Flavio Briatore revealed that Horner and his supporters are among those looking into acquiring the 24 percent stake in Otro Capital related to Alpine.
While some rumors hint that the former Red Bull boss might contemplate other paths back into Formula 1—like an improbable scenario involving Racing Bulls, or even talks concerning a potential future 12th team slot—the Alpine situation continues to gain traction.
Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher believes the decision has already been made.
Horner - I still have goals to achieve in Formula 1.
"I would like to be a partner, rather than merely a hired hand."
Christian Horner has publicly addressed his recent departure from Red Bull for the first time, stating that he is keen on a return to Formula 1, but only on his own conditions. At the European Motor Show in Dublin, Horner expressed that he feels his journey in F1 is not yet finished. "I believe I have unfinished business in Formula 1," he remarked. "It did not conclude in the way I had hoped." He went on to emphasize that he would only return for a winning opportunity. "I have no interest in a symbolic or advisory role," he stated. "I don’t want to return to the paddock unless I have something meaningful to do. I would prefer to be a partner, not just a hired hand.
"I would like to be a partner, rather than merely a hired hand."
Christian Horner has publicly addressed his recent departure from Red Bull for the first time, stating that he is keen on a return to Formula 1, but only on his own conditions. At the European Motor Show in Dublin, Horner expressed that he feels his journey in F1 is not yet finished. "I believe I have unfinished business in Formula 1," he remarked. "It did not conclude in the way I had hoped." He went on to emphasize that he would only return for a winning opportunity. "I have no interest in a symbolic or advisory role," he stated. "I don’t want to return to the paddock unless I have something meaningful to do. I would prefer to be a partner, not just a hired hand.
Colapinto's sponsor disappears from Alpine's branding.
"It’s a group that has put in tremendous effort."
Observers in Barcelona have noted that Mercado Libre, the most significant Argentine supporter of Franco Colapinto, has quietly vanished from the Alpine branding—just days after Flavio Briatore publicly reassured that Colapinto is confirmed for the entire 2026 season. The timing has inevitably attracted attention, especially as the Argentine-backed brand has appeared elsewhere in the paddock. Mercado Libre branding has shown up on Sergio Perez's helmet at Cadillac, with indications that through its Brazilian subsidiary, the company will also back Gabriel Bortoleto at Audi. Sources close to the matter emphasize that discussions between Alpine and Mercado Libre are still in progress. Colapinto himself adopted a composed, forward-looking stance when speaking with Spanish media during the Barcelona shakedown.
"It’s a group that has put in tremendous effort."
Observers in Barcelona have noted that Mercado Libre, the most significant Argentine supporter of Franco Colapinto, has quietly vanished from the Alpine branding—just days after Flavio Briatore publicly reassured that Colapinto is confirmed for the entire 2026 season. The timing has inevitably attracted attention, especially as the Argentine-backed brand has appeared elsewhere in the paddock. Mercado Libre branding has shown up on Sergio Perez's helmet at Cadillac, with indications that through its Brazilian subsidiary, the company will also back Gabriel Bortoleto at Audi. Sources close to the matter emphasize that discussions between Alpine and Mercado Libre are still in progress. Colapinto himself adopted a composed, forward-looking stance when speaking with Spanish media during the Barcelona shakedown.
Shareholders contributed EUR 20 million as the Dutch general partner departs.
"Three consecutive sold-out events are crucial for our profitability."
The decision to terminate the Dutch Grand Prix post-2026 is under fresh scrutiny, as it has come to light that the shareholders supporting the Zandvoort project distributed a EUR 20 million dividend, despite claiming financial uncertainty as a primary reason for not extending their Formula 1 contract. This year marks the final Formula 1 visit to Zandvoort, concluding a highly successful six-race series since the event's return in 2021. Organizers have frequently cited escalating costs, the risk of declining attendance, and the absence of government subsidies as reasons for deeming further continuation beyond this point unfeasible.
"Three consecutive sold-out events are crucial for our profitability."
The decision to terminate the Dutch Grand Prix post-2026 is under fresh scrutiny, as it has come to light that the shareholders supporting the Zandvoort project distributed a EUR 20 million dividend, despite claiming financial uncertainty as a primary reason for not extending their Formula 1 contract. This year marks the final Formula 1 visit to Zandvoort, concluding a highly successful six-race series since the event's return in 2021. Organizers have frequently cited escalating costs, the risk of declining attendance, and the absence of government subsidies as reasons for deeming further continuation beyond this point unfeasible.
Schumacher is 'in his own world', explains psychologist regarding the secrecy.
"He recognizes people around him, familiar faces."
Former Formula 1 driver Riccardo Patrese has expressed his views on Michael Schumacher's condition, following new reports indicating that the seven-time world champion is no longer confined to bed and can sit in a wheelchair. In an interview with Hochgepokert, Patrese, who raced alongside Schumacher at Benetton in the early 1990s, mentioned that he hasn’t seen or heard from his former teammate since the skiing accident in December 2013. "I feel like the situation has been similar for a few years now," Patrese commented. "I hope Michael is getting better every day because he’s a good friend of mine, and it saddens me that he is in this condition."
Patrese reminisced about how Schumacher's survival was once uncertain.
"He recognizes people around him, familiar faces."
Former Formula 1 driver Riccardo Patrese has expressed his views on Michael Schumacher's condition, following new reports indicating that the seven-time world champion is no longer confined to bed and can sit in a wheelchair. In an interview with Hochgepokert, Patrese, who raced alongside Schumacher at Benetton in the early 1990s, mentioned that he hasn’t seen or heard from his former teammate since the skiing accident in December 2013. "I feel like the situation has been similar for a few years now," Patrese commented. "I hope Michael is getting better every day because he’s a good friend of mine, and it saddens me that he is in this condition."
Patrese reminisced about how Schumacher's survival was once uncertain.
Perhaps I should consider purchasing a 70 Series Toyota Land Cruiser that has a foldable windshield and a roll hoop.
**Car Cave USA**
The latest car news and reviews, no nonsense.
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As someone with what might be the best job in the world, I get to spend quite a bit of time searching for interesting cars to write about. This often leads me down various intriguing paths, which I thoroughly enjoy. However, sometimes, you'll encounter fascinating finds in unexpected ways—and this is a tale about that.
While browsing Instagram, I came across a unique 70 Series Toyota Land Cruiser for sale from Car Cave USA in Aiken, South Carolina. I had never seen one like it before, so I shared it with the guys in our Slack chat.
**Car Cave USA**
The latest car news and reviews, no nonsense.
Our free daily newsletter delivers the important stories straight to your inbox every weekday.
As someone with what might be the best job in the world, I get to spend quite a bit of time searching for interesting cars to write about. This often leads me down various intriguing paths, which I thoroughly enjoy. However, sometimes, you'll encounter fascinating finds in unexpected ways—and this is a tale about that.
While browsing Instagram, I came across a unique 70 Series Toyota Land Cruiser for sale from Car Cave USA in Aiken, South Carolina. I had never seen one like it before, so I shared it with the guys in our Slack chat.
Rovanpera is sidelined by illness once more as his path to F1 comes to a halt.
"The month was definitely very informative."
Kalle Rovanpera has encountered another obstacle on his early single-seater journey, as illness compelled him to miss the final weekend of the Oceania Formula Regional series. According to Finnish newspaper Ilta-Sanomat, the 25-year-old contracted a stomach bug after the tests last Thursday, which kept him from participating in the Friday sessions and ultimately dashed any hopes of a comeback later in the weekend. "The decision was made on Saturday morning when he was feeling unwell and had a mild fever," manager Timo Jouhki explained. "It wasn't sensible for him to drive."
Rovanpera is believed to have left New Zealand quietly before Sunday’s races and returned to Europe.
"The month was definitely very informative."
Kalle Rovanpera has encountered another obstacle on his early single-seater journey, as illness compelled him to miss the final weekend of the Oceania Formula Regional series. According to Finnish newspaper Ilta-Sanomat, the 25-year-old contracted a stomach bug after the tests last Thursday, which kept him from participating in the Friday sessions and ultimately dashed any hopes of a comeback later in the weekend. "The decision was made on Saturday morning when he was feeling unwell and had a mild fever," manager Timo Jouhki explained. "It wasn't sensible for him to drive."
Rovanpera is believed to have left New Zealand quietly before Sunday’s races and returned to Europe.
Wolff responds prior to the FIA meetings in February.
"Toto Wolff has sharply criticized rival teams for their ongoing questioning of the legality of Mercedes’ 2026 power unit solution, with two additional FIA engine meetings planned this month to address the contentious compression issue. In an interview with German media, Wolff emphasized that he views the ongoing debate as unnecessary political noise rather than a real regulatory concern.
"You don’t always need to comprehend what competitors are doing," the Austrian remarked. "The fact that they can’t simply acknowledge that the regulations agreed upon with the FIA are clear in their interpretation and implementation - yet the dissenters continue to insist ‘we don’t like it’."
Wolff indicated that the grievances reveal more about pressures in other areas than about Mercedes’ engine.
"They hold secret meetings and send letters.
"Toto Wolff has sharply criticized rival teams for their ongoing questioning of the legality of Mercedes’ 2026 power unit solution, with two additional FIA engine meetings planned this month to address the contentious compression issue. In an interview with German media, Wolff emphasized that he views the ongoing debate as unnecessary political noise rather than a real regulatory concern.
"You don’t always need to comprehend what competitors are doing," the Austrian remarked. "The fact that they can’t simply acknowledge that the regulations agreed upon with the FIA are clear in their interpretation and implementation - yet the dissenters continue to insist ‘we don’t like it’."
Wolff indicated that the grievances reveal more about pressures in other areas than about Mercedes’ engine.
"They hold secret meetings and send letters.
Doohan departed without a seat following a setback in Super Formula.
Jack Doohan's ambitions to revive his career with a race program in 2026 have faced another setback, with reports from Japan revealing that the Australian driver has missed out on a Super Formula seat after a challenging test. Following the loss of his Formula 1 position with Alpine midway through the last season, there had been strong expectations that Doohan would transition to Japan's Super Formula championship in 2026. He participated in a test with Kondo Racing, a Toyota-affiliated team, and was seen as a promising candidate for a full-time position.
However, Dutch publication Formule 1 reports that the agreement fell apart at the last moment. Kondo Racing announced last week that Ukyo Sasahara had been signed, while the second seat will go to Williams reserve driver Luke Browning, leaving Doohan without a spot.
Jack Doohan's ambitions to revive his career with a race program in 2026 have faced another setback, with reports from Japan revealing that the Australian driver has missed out on a Super Formula seat after a challenging test. Following the loss of his Formula 1 position with Alpine midway through the last season, there had been strong expectations that Doohan would transition to Japan's Super Formula championship in 2026. He participated in a test with Kondo Racing, a Toyota-affiliated team, and was seen as a promising candidate for a full-time position.
However, Dutch publication Formule 1 reports that the agreement fell apart at the last moment. Kondo Racing announced last week that Ukyo Sasahara had been signed, while the second seat will go to Williams reserve driver Luke Browning, leaving Doohan without a spot.
Antonelli is 'prepared' for his second year after living independently.
"It's time to take charge of my own space."
Kimi Antonelli has shared that he feels better equipped for his second season in Formula 1, having moved out of his family home and into his own place in San Marino. In an interview with the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, the 19-year-old noted that this shift in his personal life reflects an increase in his confidence on the racetrack.
"It’s time to be the man of the house, since I live alone," said Antonelli. "Before, I stayed at my parents’ home and didn’t do much. Now I have to manage everything myself - cleaning, laundry, keeping things organized. I enjoy it."
He appreciates having his own space to return to after demanding weeks away.
"It's time to take charge of my own space."
Kimi Antonelli has shared that he feels better equipped for his second season in Formula 1, having moved out of his family home and into his own place in San Marino. In an interview with the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, the 19-year-old noted that this shift in his personal life reflects an increase in his confidence on the racetrack.
"It’s time to be the man of the house, since I live alone," said Antonelli. "Before, I stayed at my parents’ home and didn’t do much. Now I have to manage everything myself - cleaning, laundry, keeping things organized. I enjoy it."
He appreciates having his own space to return to after demanding weeks away.
Horner considering purchasing team shares - Albers
"I had a very enjoyable conversation with him."
Christian Horner is currently considering the option of investing in a Formula 1 team, as revealed by former F1 driver Christijan Albers, who mentioned he recently spoke about this directly with the ex-Red Bull team principal.
In an interview with Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Albers shared that Horner brought up the topic during a recent meeting in Paris, where he was attending an FIA event.
"He mentioned that he has sufficient investors backing him to explore the possibility," Albers said. "However, only a few teams are open to selling. The share values have surged significantly, causing many teams to retain their stakes. The conclusion is that the values may continue to increase."
Albers pointed out that even teams at the tail end of the grid are now having much higher valuations, using Alpine as an example.
"I had a very enjoyable conversation with him."
Christian Horner is currently considering the option of investing in a Formula 1 team, as revealed by former F1 driver Christijan Albers, who mentioned he recently spoke about this directly with the ex-Red Bull team principal.
In an interview with Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Albers shared that Horner brought up the topic during a recent meeting in Paris, where he was attending an FIA event.
"He mentioned that he has sufficient investors backing him to explore the possibility," Albers said. "However, only a few teams are open to selling. The share values have surged significantly, causing many teams to retain their stakes. The conclusion is that the values may continue to increase."
Albers pointed out that even teams at the tail end of the grid are now having much higher valuations, using Alpine as an example.
Ocon cautious about overtaking in 2026, despite enjoying the new cars.
"It's quite different to drive compared to what we had last year,"
Esteban Ocon has expressed doubt about whether the much-anticipated active aerodynamics in Formula 1 will actually enhance racing, labeling the new system as "essentially DRS at the front." Speaking with L’Equipe after the testing week in Barcelona, the Haas driver shared that his initial experience with the 2026 cars was mostly positive, albeit with some reservations. "It's very different to drive compared to what we had in 2025," Ocon stated. "Now, half of the power comes from the electric motor, and managing the throttle and energy recovery is crucial. It’s a new experience for all of us - but the good news is that it still feels like a race car."
Ocon was particularly impressed with the straight-line speed.
"It's quite different to drive compared to what we had last year,"
Esteban Ocon has expressed doubt about whether the much-anticipated active aerodynamics in Formula 1 will actually enhance racing, labeling the new system as "essentially DRS at the front." Speaking with L’Equipe after the testing week in Barcelona, the Haas driver shared that his initial experience with the 2026 cars was mostly positive, albeit with some reservations. "It's very different to drive compared to what we had in 2025," Ocon stated. "Now, half of the power comes from the electric motor, and managing the throttle and energy recovery is crucial. It’s a new experience for all of us - but the good news is that it still feels like a race car."
Ocon was particularly impressed with the straight-line speed.
Wolff downplays title excitement, Russell impressed with Aston's performance.
"We still lack a complete overview."
Initial suggestions that Mercedes might be the leading team under the new Formula 1 regulations for 2026 are being downplayed in Brackley, both by team principal Toto Wolff and projected title contender George Russell. With many expecting Mercedes to excel in the new era due to its power unit, Russell has been considered by some as an early favorite for the championship. However, the Brit maintains that his mindset remains unchanged.
"Whether I'm regarded as a favorite or not doesn't impact my approach," Russell stated on Monday. "Fans likely anticipated a rivalry between Mercedes and McLaren, as many thought our power unit would be the top one. However, all signs suggest that other engine manufacturers have also performed well.
"We still lack a complete overview."
Initial suggestions that Mercedes might be the leading team under the new Formula 1 regulations for 2026 are being downplayed in Brackley, both by team principal Toto Wolff and projected title contender George Russell. With many expecting Mercedes to excel in the new era due to its power unit, Russell has been considered by some as an early favorite for the championship. However, the Brit maintains that his mindset remains unchanged.
"Whether I'm regarded as a favorite or not doesn't impact my approach," Russell stated on Monday. "Fans likely anticipated a rivalry between Mercedes and McLaren, as many thought our power unit would be the top one. However, all signs suggest that other engine manufacturers have also performed well.
Williams loses Santander support and secures backing from Barclays ahead of the postponed announcement.
"We wish them success in the future."
Williams is set to unveil its 2026 car without one of its most recognizable partners, as it has been revealed just before the team’s online launch that Santander has ended its sponsorship of the Grove-based team. According to the Spanish newspaper Marca, the banking giant from Spain has revised its Formula 1 sponsorship strategy and will no longer be affiliated with Williams starting in 2026. Consequently, Santander and Openbank branding will be removed from the FW48 and the team’s racewear, concluding a sponsorship deal that included paddock access and client hospitality experiences.
"We wish them success in the future."
Williams is set to unveil its 2026 car without one of its most recognizable partners, as it has been revealed just before the team’s online launch that Santander has ended its sponsorship of the Grove-based team. According to the Spanish newspaper Marca, the banking giant from Spain has revised its Formula 1 sponsorship strategy and will no longer be affiliated with Williams starting in 2026. Consequently, Santander and Openbank branding will be removed from the FW48 and the team’s racewear, concluding a sponsorship deal that included paddock access and client hospitality experiences.
Williams skipped test to remain 'competitive' - Vowles
"You must allow the pain of failure to inspire change."
Williams team principal James Vowles has justified the choice to skip the entire Barcelona shakedown week, emphasizing that postponing the FW48 was difficult but essential as the team focuses on competitiveness. During a conversation with AFP on the day Williams revealed its 2026 livery through rendered images instead of a physical launch, Vowles admitted that the decision not to participate in Spain was one of the toughest he has faced since taking the helm at Grove. "One of the hardest choices of my career was to not go to Barcelona," Vowles stated. "Yet, it was the right call. We could have fielded a car there, but it wouldn't have been competitive."
Williams had initially intended to have a physical launch but had to opt for a virtual reveal due to ongoing delays.
"You must allow the pain of failure to inspire change."
Williams team principal James Vowles has justified the choice to skip the entire Barcelona shakedown week, emphasizing that postponing the FW48 was difficult but essential as the team focuses on competitiveness. During a conversation with AFP on the day Williams revealed its 2026 livery through rendered images instead of a physical launch, Vowles admitted that the decision not to participate in Spain was one of the toughest he has faced since taking the helm at Grove. "One of the hardest choices of my career was to not go to Barcelona," Vowles stated. "Yet, it was the right call. We could have fielded a car there, but it wouldn't have been competitive."
Williams had initially intended to have a physical launch but had to opt for a virtual reveal due to ongoing delays.
Newey minimizes the significance of 'extreme' Aston, while Vowles expresses admiration.
"I never view any of my designs as aggressive."
Adrian Newey has downplayed the speculation surrounding a revolutionary first design for Aston Martin, despite considerable admiration from the paddock after the delayed AMR26 made its debut toward the end of the Barcelona shakedown week. The car, which has not yet been run in its green livery and has just taken to the track following an expedited development schedule, quickly attracted attention due to its unique geometry, which includes notably unconventional suspension designs. Even competitors expressed their admiration, with James Vowles, who leads the delayed Williams project, specifically highlighting Newey’s contributions.
"As for Adrian, you can see the upper wishbone is a bit different," Vowles remarked.
"I never view any of my designs as aggressive."
Adrian Newey has downplayed the speculation surrounding a revolutionary first design for Aston Martin, despite considerable admiration from the paddock after the delayed AMR26 made its debut toward the end of the Barcelona shakedown week. The car, which has not yet been run in its green livery and has just taken to the track following an expedited development schedule, quickly attracted attention due to its unique geometry, which includes notably unconventional suspension designs. Even competitors expressed their admiration, with James Vowles, who leads the delayed Williams project, specifically highlighting Newey’s contributions.
"As for Adrian, you can see the upper wishbone is a bit different," Vowles remarked.
South Africa acknowledges that its return to Formula 1 is still several years off.
"We have underestimated what is necessary."
South Africa's ongoing efforts to bring Formula 1 back to the African continent have faced a reality check, with sports minister Gayton McKenzie admitting that a grand prix will not occur in the near future. After initially expressing optimism, McKenzie now acknowledges that the scale and intricacies of hosting a Formula 1 event have been underestimated, even as work to upgrade the historic Kyalami circuit continues.
"Definitely not next year," McKenzie told eNCA. "We have underestimated what is needed to host an F1 event. But F1 has supported us. Now we have the experts, and we’re preparing a proposal they cannot refuse."
Kyalami has initiated an expensive process to attain FIA Grade 1 accreditation, with upgrades expected to cost between $5-10 million.
"We have underestimated what is necessary."
South Africa's ongoing efforts to bring Formula 1 back to the African continent have faced a reality check, with sports minister Gayton McKenzie admitting that a grand prix will not occur in the near future. After initially expressing optimism, McKenzie now acknowledges that the scale and intricacies of hosting a Formula 1 event have been underestimated, even as work to upgrade the historic Kyalami circuit continues.
"Definitely not next year," McKenzie told eNCA. "We have underestimated what is needed to host an F1 event. But F1 has supported us. Now we have the experts, and we’re preparing a proposal they cannot refuse."
Kyalami has initiated an expensive process to attain FIA Grade 1 accreditation, with upgrades expected to cost between $5-10 million.
Ocon cautions against 'lift-and-coast' strategy in qualifying for '26.
"We make the most of the tools we're provided."
Esteban Ocon has recognized a common concern among fans regarding Formula 1’s significantly changed 2026 vehicles - that 'lift-and-coast' driving will not only be prevalent but also quite intense, even during qualifying sessions. The Haas driver has previously expressed skepticism about the new active aerodynamics, labeling it as simply "DRS at the front," and now acknowledges that the energy-management requirements of the new regulations are more demanding than anticipated.
"We have to employ lift-and-coast strategies during qualifying runs," Ocon disclosed. "It felt odd initially, but we had already practiced it in the simulator. After one lap, I got the hang of it. Now, it feels strange not to use it.
"We make the most of the tools we're provided."
Esteban Ocon has recognized a common concern among fans regarding Formula 1’s significantly changed 2026 vehicles - that 'lift-and-coast' driving will not only be prevalent but also quite intense, even during qualifying sessions. The Haas driver has previously expressed skepticism about the new active aerodynamics, labeling it as simply "DRS at the front," and now acknowledges that the energy-management requirements of the new regulations are more demanding than anticipated.
"We have to employ lift-and-coast strategies during qualifying runs," Ocon disclosed. "It felt odd initially, but we had already practiced it in the simulator. After one lap, I got the hang of it. Now, it feels strange not to use it.