© F1News.Ru Editorial 1997-2026. Media registration certificate El No. FS77-29173. Registered with the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Communications.
Privacy Policy
Feedback
Advertising on the portal
The information resource (website) uses recommendation technologies (information technologies for providing information based on the collection, systematization, and analysis of data related to the preferences of Internet users located in the territory of the Russian Federation).
Privacy Policy
Feedback
Advertising on the portal
The information resource (website) uses recommendation technologies (information technologies for providing information based on the collection, systematization, and analysis of data related to the preferences of Internet users located in the territory of the Russian Federation).
© F1News.Ru Editorial 1997-2026. Media registration certificate El No. FS77-29173. Registered with the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Communications.
Privacy Policy
Feedback
Advertising on the portal
The information resource (website) uses recommendation technologies (information technologies for providing information based on the collection, systematization, and analysis of data related to the preferences of Internet users located in the territory of the Russian Federation).
Privacy Policy
Feedback
Advertising on the portal
The information resource (website) uses recommendation technologies (information technologies for providing information based on the collection, systematization, and analysis of data related to the preferences of Internet users located in the territory of the Russian Federation).
Helmut Marko rarely complimented rivals from Mercedes while being a motorsport consultant for Red Bull. However, after retiring, the Austrian specialist is no longer bound by corporate rules and can express his opinions about other Formula 1 teams more freely.
Helmut Marko: "Now teams have all the data. Everyone knows their strengths, and if you're not Mercedes, then also your weaknesses. Those are the areas teams will try to address, but considering budget constraints, it won't be that easy.
It was expected that Mercedes would dominate thanks to their engine, but their chassis has also been a pleasant surprise. They not only have the best engine but also the best chassis. Mercedes will dominate – it became clear to everyone when they were able to show their speed on an empty track.
Kimi Antonelli has been fast in all youth categories. Now he has more experience. If he doesn't experience a drop in form, he will become a serious competitor for George Russell."
Helmut Marko: "Now teams have all the data. Everyone knows their strengths, and if you're not Mercedes, then also your weaknesses. Those are the areas teams will try to address, but considering budget constraints, it won't be that easy.
It was expected that Mercedes would dominate thanks to their engine, but their chassis has also been a pleasant surprise. They not only have the best engine but also the best chassis. Mercedes will dominate – it became clear to everyone when they were able to show their speed on an empty track.
Kimi Antonelli has been fast in all youth categories. Now he has more experience. If he doesn't experience a drop in form, he will become a serious competitor for George Russell."
© F1News.Ru Editorial 1997-2026. Media registration certificate El No. FS77-29173. Registered with the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Communications.
Privacy Policy
Feedback
Advertising on the portal
The information resource (website) uses recommendation technologies (information technologies for providing information based on the collection, systematization, and analysis of data related to the preferences of Internet users located in the territory of the Russian Federation).
Privacy Policy
Feedback
Advertising on the portal
The information resource (website) uses recommendation technologies (information technologies for providing information based on the collection, systematization, and analysis of data related to the preferences of Internet users located in the territory of the Russian Federation).
Toto Wolff swiftly acted to ease escalating tensions between George Russell and Kimi Antonelli following a dramatic sprint race incident in Montreal. The competition between Mercedes’ two title challengers heated up considerably on Saturday after a near-miss during the sprint race led to heated radio exchanges from Antonelli. Russell, who arrived in Canada under pressure as he lagged 20 points behind his younger teammate in the standings, had a remarkable turnaround, winning the sprint and securing pole position for Sunday’s grand prix.
"I know Miami hasn’t been my best track," Russell remarked. "There’s been a long gap in the calendar, so many people have plenty to say. But ultimately, I just wanted to get back to racing."
Antonelli, however, was outraged over the sprint incident, accusing Russell of disregarding previous team discussions about race conduct. "If we need to race like this, good to know," the Italian remarked sarcastically on the team radio. Later, Antonelli expressed that he was "very annoyed," admitting, "I perhaps interpreted the significance of that meeting a bit differently," in reference to their pre-sprint discussions about their racing conduct.
Wolff quickly intervened over the radio as Antonelli continued to express his frustration. "That’s the fourth time now," Wolff reminded him. "We’ll discuss this internally, not over the radio. Focus on driving, not on complaining over the radio."
Following the race, Wolff downplayed the notion of a significant internal crisis. "It was a valuable lesson in how we want to operate, or rather, how we don’t want to," he said. "It illustrates how quickly you can lose a lead when competing too aggressively with one another. It always takes two."
Wolff emphasized that Mercedes would not overreact despite the clear tension. "We aren’t aiming to be overly harsh on Kimi or George, but we need to establish some boundaries," he explained. "And I prefer these discussions to happen during the sprint when the stakes aren't as high as in the main race."
The Austrian also clarified that he does not wish for the rivalry to be exaggerated prematurely. "I don’t want the beginning of the fifth round of the season to come with Star Wars-style headlines or talk of rising tensions," Wolff stated. "That’s not the reality."
"Kimi is a young driver, overwhelmed by emotions. George would likely react similarly if he were in his position." Wolff later mentioned that he conducted a post-sprint meeting with both drivers, describing the discussion as productive. "They want another chance to prove they can give each other the necessary space," he said.
Antonelli confirmed that their relationship stabilized quickly. "After the Sprint, we cleared things up," the 19-year-old shared with Sky Italia. "We had a meeting, and we want to ensure that what happened doesn’t occur again."
Meanwhile, 1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve believes that the current pressure is a significant test of Antonelli’s mindset following his impressive start to 2026. "It’s reminiscent of Piastri last year," Villeneuve stated in Le Journal de Montreal. "When you’re in front, the approach changes."
"We’ll see what he is truly made of, how he handles it. He’s fast – now we need to assess whether he can maintain that pace both physically and mentally."
"I know Miami hasn’t been my best track," Russell remarked. "There’s been a long gap in the calendar, so many people have plenty to say. But ultimately, I just wanted to get back to racing."
Antonelli, however, was outraged over the sprint incident, accusing Russell of disregarding previous team discussions about race conduct. "If we need to race like this, good to know," the Italian remarked sarcastically on the team radio. Later, Antonelli expressed that he was "very annoyed," admitting, "I perhaps interpreted the significance of that meeting a bit differently," in reference to their pre-sprint discussions about their racing conduct.
Wolff quickly intervened over the radio as Antonelli continued to express his frustration. "That’s the fourth time now," Wolff reminded him. "We’ll discuss this internally, not over the radio. Focus on driving, not on complaining over the radio."
Following the race, Wolff downplayed the notion of a significant internal crisis. "It was a valuable lesson in how we want to operate, or rather, how we don’t want to," he said. "It illustrates how quickly you can lose a lead when competing too aggressively with one another. It always takes two."
Wolff emphasized that Mercedes would not overreact despite the clear tension. "We aren’t aiming to be overly harsh on Kimi or George, but we need to establish some boundaries," he explained. "And I prefer these discussions to happen during the sprint when the stakes aren't as high as in the main race."
The Austrian also clarified that he does not wish for the rivalry to be exaggerated prematurely. "I don’t want the beginning of the fifth round of the season to come with Star Wars-style headlines or talk of rising tensions," Wolff stated. "That’s not the reality."
"Kimi is a young driver, overwhelmed by emotions. George would likely react similarly if he were in his position." Wolff later mentioned that he conducted a post-sprint meeting with both drivers, describing the discussion as productive. "They want another chance to prove they can give each other the necessary space," he said.
Antonelli confirmed that their relationship stabilized quickly. "After the Sprint, we cleared things up," the 19-year-old shared with Sky Italia. "We had a meeting, and we want to ensure that what happened doesn’t occur again."
Meanwhile, 1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve believes that the current pressure is a significant test of Antonelli’s mindset following his impressive start to 2026. "It’s reminiscent of Piastri last year," Villeneuve stated in Le Journal de Montreal. "When you’re in front, the approach changes."
"We’ll see what he is truly made of, how he handles it. He’s fast – now we need to assess whether he can maintain that pace both physically and mentally."
© F1News.Ru Editorial 1997-2026. Media registration certificate El No. FS77-29173. Registered with the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Communications.
Privacy Policy
Feedback
Advertising on the portal
The information resource (website) uses recommendation technologies (information technologies for providing information based on the collection, systematization, and analysis of data related to the preferences of Internet users located in the territory of the Russian Federation).
Privacy Policy
Feedback
Advertising on the portal
The information resource (website) uses recommendation technologies (information technologies for providing information based on the collection, systematization, and analysis of data related to the preferences of Internet users located in the territory of the Russian Federation).
© F1News.Ru Editorial 1997-2026. Media registration certificate El No. FS77-29173. Registered with the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Communications.
Privacy Policy
Feedback
Advertising on the portal
The information resource (website) uses recommendation technologies (information technologies for providing information based on the collection, systematization, and analysis of data related to the preferences of Internet users located in the territory of the Russian Federation).
Privacy Policy
Feedback
Advertising on the portal
The information resource (website) uses recommendation technologies (information technologies for providing information based on the collection, systematization, and analysis of data related to the preferences of Internet users located in the territory of the Russian Federation).
© F1News.Ru Editorial 1997-2026. Media registration certificate El No. FS77-29173. Registered with the Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Communications.
Privacy Policy
Feedback
Advertising on the portal
The information resource (website) uses recommendation technologies (information technologies for providing information based on the collection, systematization, and analysis of data related to the preferences of Internet users located in the territory of the Russian Federation).
Privacy Policy
Feedback
Advertising on the portal
The information resource (website) uses recommendation technologies (information technologies for providing information based on the collection, systematization, and analysis of data related to the preferences of Internet users located in the territory of the Russian Federation).
The Aston Martin F1 team is making every effort to at least somewhat improve the situation in the second half of the year in a season that can only be described as a failure. It is enough to recall that at all recent stages of the championship, even the drivers of the new Cadillac team outperformed Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll in qualifying.
It is expected that the first part of the technical innovations being developed by engineers and designers under the leadership of Adrian Newey in Silverstone will be presented by Aston Martin at the Hungarian stage of the season, with the second part coming after the summer break in Zandvoort. Additionally, Honda's engine specialists promise to prepare an upgraded version of the power unit by the Dutch Grand Prix.
In general, all hope rests on a radically upgraded version of the AMR26 car. However, there are difficulties of a different nature associated with its preparation – financial ones. Mike Krack, the racing director of Aston Martin, made it clear that the team has already begun negotiations with the FIA regarding the critical budget situation.
To explain what is happening, Krack provided a clear and simple example: "You go to the supermarket, and you have only 100 euros in your pocket. You can only spend that money, no more.
In our situation, we must always remember that accidents can happen, so from that hypothetical hundred euros, we need to set aside a certain reserve and spend it very wisely. We constantly have to find the optimal balance between spending on upgrading the technology and regular expenses related to participating in races."
According to him, the absolute priority at the moment is to optimize all production processes at the team's base, reduce costs for manufacturing new aerodynamic components, and spend literally every penny as rationally as possible.
"I believe it has already been confirmed that we will present a large set of technical innovations in Hungary," continued Mike Krack. "And by the Dutch Grand Prix, the engine will also be upgraded. As for future prospects, that remains to be seen.
Negotiations regarding the budget limit situation have already begun, and the outcome of those negotiations will determine what we will do at the next stage. But I am confident that this will not be the last set of updates. However, rules are rules, and we have to accept them, after which we strive to achieve the maximum within those rules."
The main conclusion that can be drawn from Krack's statements is that Aston Martin has no margin for error; their limit has already been exhausted, and soon the entire available budget will be completely spent.
It is expected that the first part of the technical innovations being developed by engineers and designers under the leadership of Adrian Newey in Silverstone will be presented by Aston Martin at the Hungarian stage of the season, with the second part coming after the summer break in Zandvoort. Additionally, Honda's engine specialists promise to prepare an upgraded version of the power unit by the Dutch Grand Prix.
In general, all hope rests on a radically upgraded version of the AMR26 car. However, there are difficulties of a different nature associated with its preparation – financial ones. Mike Krack, the racing director of Aston Martin, made it clear that the team has already begun negotiations with the FIA regarding the critical budget situation.
To explain what is happening, Krack provided a clear and simple example: "You go to the supermarket, and you have only 100 euros in your pocket. You can only spend that money, no more.
In our situation, we must always remember that accidents can happen, so from that hypothetical hundred euros, we need to set aside a certain reserve and spend it very wisely. We constantly have to find the optimal balance between spending on upgrading the technology and regular expenses related to participating in races."
According to him, the absolute priority at the moment is to optimize all production processes at the team's base, reduce costs for manufacturing new aerodynamic components, and spend literally every penny as rationally as possible.
"I believe it has already been confirmed that we will present a large set of technical innovations in Hungary," continued Mike Krack. "And by the Dutch Grand Prix, the engine will also be upgraded. As for future prospects, that remains to be seen.
Negotiations regarding the budget limit situation have already begun, and the outcome of those negotiations will determine what we will do at the next stage. But I am confident that this will not be the last set of updates. However, rules are rules, and we have to accept them, after which we strive to achieve the maximum within those rules."
The main conclusion that can be drawn from Krack's statements is that Aston Martin has no margin for error; their limit has already been exhausted, and soon the entire available budget will be completely spent.
REC: The first victory of the LMP3 prototype
The Russian endurance racing series REC held an away stage, the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, on July 11 at the Igora Drive racetrack in the Leningrad region. After the first two races of the season in Moscow, which took place under rainy conditions, the northern capital welcomed the series participants with 30-degree heat. The surprises of the third stage did not end there. The qualifying session showed a colossal advantage for the sport prototypes of the CN Pro class over their closest competitors – the GT Pro class supercars. Crew No. 9, consisting of Georgy Efrosinin and Igor Mukhin from "Pro Motorsport," secured their third pole of the season with an absolute track record of 1 minute 45 seconds in their Norma. Following the qualifying winners were their "classmates" – the BALCHUG Racing team (No. 21) and TEAMGARIS (No. 29). The nearest car in the GT3 category, the Audi R8 LMS, driven by Alexander Vartanyan and Kirill Smal from the Vracing team (No. 90), was over two seconds behind the third place on the starting grid.
The Igora Drive racetrack, built for Formula 1 racing, with its kilometer-long start-finish straight and fast configuration in dry weather, revealed the key advantages of the prototypes – better power-to-weight ratio in the peloton and speed in corners. Teams with more powerful but heavier supercars from Mercedes, Audi, and Lamborghini could only hope for rain under such conditions, which was expected for the final segment of the four-hour marathon. Then, on a wet track, the GT3 technology could have leveled the gap due to the "electronic assistants" that the prototypes lack.
The start of the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg began with fierce competition among the leaders. Even on the straight, pole holder Efrosinin was overtaken by BALCHUG Racing driver Mikhail Loboda, but at the entrance to the first turn, his prototype was hit by the silver Mercedes of Mikhail Alyoshin from CapitalRT (No. 13). The chain reaction also affected Alexander Vartanyan, who attempted to overtake the entire group with late braking on the outside line. Loboda's out-of-control prototype pushed Vartanyan's Audi off the track, forcing the Vracing driver to make a brief detour through the gravel.
For the fragile Ligier of BALCHUG Racing, contact with the Mercedes, which is twice the size of the prototype, resulted in a torn aerodynamic kit and damaged suspension, putting an end to a promising race. Nevertheless, the team's mechanics managed a miracle and repaired the car during the marathon, after which the orange-blue vehicle returned to the track 15 laps down. Another participant in the starting incident, Alexander Vartanyan, whose crew with Kirill Smal was considered another favorite of the race, ended their performance in less than half an hour. The golden-black Audi Vracing (No. 90) suffered a gearbox failure.
Meanwhile, the battle for the lead unfolded between the two fastest cars in the peloton – the Norma prototypes of Georgy Efrosinin from "Pro Motorsport" and the Ligier of Konstantin Tereshchenko, competing for TEAMGARIS. The fight was not just between the two leading drivers behind the wheel of the best REC cars, but also between different technical philosophies: the CN group prototype with its characteristic open cockpit against the LMP3, which is the "junior" version of the prototypes competing in the world's largest 24-hour marathon, the "24 Hours of Le Mans." From the first laps, the two prototypes quickly pulled away from their rivals and staged a beautiful duel, in which Tereshchenko ultimately prevailed.
However, when Konstantin was replaced at the wheel of the Ligier by his namesake and teammate Konstantin Zakharievsky at the end of the first hour of the race, Efrosinin, who remained on the track, caught up with his opponent and then regained the lead.
The Russian endurance racing series REC held an away stage, the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, on July 11 at the Igora Drive racetrack in the Leningrad region. After the first two races of the season in Moscow, which took place under rainy conditions, the northern capital welcomed the series participants with 30-degree heat. The surprises of the third stage did not end there. The qualifying session showed a colossal advantage for the sport prototypes of the CN Pro class over their closest competitors – the GT Pro class supercars. Crew No. 9, consisting of Georgy Efrosinin and Igor Mukhin from "Pro Motorsport," secured their third pole of the season with an absolute track record of 1 minute 45 seconds in their Norma. Following the qualifying winners were their "classmates" – the BALCHUG Racing team (No. 21) and TEAMGARIS (No. 29). The nearest car in the GT3 category, the Audi R8 LMS, driven by Alexander Vartanyan and Kirill Smal from the Vracing team (No. 90), was over two seconds behind the third place on the starting grid.
The Igora Drive racetrack, built for Formula 1 racing, with its kilometer-long start-finish straight and fast configuration in dry weather, revealed the key advantages of the prototypes – better power-to-weight ratio in the peloton and speed in corners. Teams with more powerful but heavier supercars from Mercedes, Audi, and Lamborghini could only hope for rain under such conditions, which was expected for the final segment of the four-hour marathon. Then, on a wet track, the GT3 technology could have leveled the gap due to the "electronic assistants" that the prototypes lack.
The start of the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg began with fierce competition among the leaders. Even on the straight, pole holder Efrosinin was overtaken by BALCHUG Racing driver Mikhail Loboda, but at the entrance to the first turn, his prototype was hit by the silver Mercedes of Mikhail Alyoshin from CapitalRT (No. 13). The chain reaction also affected Alexander Vartanyan, who attempted to overtake the entire group with late braking on the outside line. Loboda's out-of-control prototype pushed Vartanyan's Audi off the track, forcing the Vracing driver to make a brief detour through the gravel.
For the fragile Ligier of BALCHUG Racing, contact with the Mercedes, which is twice the size of the prototype, resulted in a torn aerodynamic kit and damaged suspension, putting an end to a promising race. Nevertheless, the team's mechanics managed a miracle and repaired the car during the marathon, after which the orange-blue vehicle returned to the track 15 laps down. Another participant in the starting incident, Alexander Vartanyan, whose crew with Kirill Smal was considered another favorite of the race, ended their performance in less than half an hour. The golden-black Audi Vracing (No. 90) suffered a gearbox failure.
Meanwhile, the battle for the lead unfolded between the two fastest cars in the peloton – the Norma prototypes of Georgy Efrosinin from "Pro Motorsport" and the Ligier of Konstantin Tereshchenko, competing for TEAMGARIS. The fight was not just between the two leading drivers behind the wheel of the best REC cars, but also between different technical philosophies: the CN group prototype with its characteristic open cockpit against the LMP3, which is the "junior" version of the prototypes competing in the world's largest 24-hour marathon, the "24 Hours of Le Mans." From the first laps, the two prototypes quickly pulled away from their rivals and staged a beautiful duel, in which Tereshchenko ultimately prevailed.
However, when Konstantin was replaced at the wheel of the Ligier by his namesake and teammate Konstantin Zakharievsky at the end of the first hour of the race, Efrosinin, who remained on the track, caught up with his opponent and then regained the lead.
In the last stage in Silverstone, the Audi team scored points after a long break – and hopes to build on that success in Spa…
Alan McNish, Racing Director: “The race in Silverstone was a positive step forward for us. We are consistently fighting at the forefront of the midfield teams, and returning to points after several unsuccessful races was a well-deserved reward for this work.
The results from the weekend in Silverstone are encouraging: we are moving in the right direction and want to consistently show results at this level going forward. The atmosphere in the team is positive, everyone is striving for a common goal.
Spa presents us with a challenging track, a new challenge compared to Silverstone, but it’s a great opportunity to consolidate the progress we’ve made.”
Nico Hülkenberg: “The retirement in Silverstone due to gearbox issues was disappointing, as I was fighting for points before that. On the other hand, our pace in the last races indicated that we are moving in the right direction.
We are consistently battling for leading positions in the midfield, and we want to continue with that feeling. Ahead is the stage in Spa, at one of the classic tracks. I’m looking forward to returning. If we have a flawless weekend, we will come home with a respectable result.”
Gabriel Bortoleto: “The points in Silverstone were a great result for the team and a nice reward for the work done. This will add motivation before a series of two consecutive races before the summer break.
Spa is a fantastic track, and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to unlock our car's potential, and I hope to fight for another strong result.”
Alan McNish, Racing Director: “The race in Silverstone was a positive step forward for us. We are consistently fighting at the forefront of the midfield teams, and returning to points after several unsuccessful races was a well-deserved reward for this work.
The results from the weekend in Silverstone are encouraging: we are moving in the right direction and want to consistently show results at this level going forward. The atmosphere in the team is positive, everyone is striving for a common goal.
Spa presents us with a challenging track, a new challenge compared to Silverstone, but it’s a great opportunity to consolidate the progress we’ve made.”
Nico Hülkenberg: “The retirement in Silverstone due to gearbox issues was disappointing, as I was fighting for points before that. On the other hand, our pace in the last races indicated that we are moving in the right direction.
We are consistently battling for leading positions in the midfield, and we want to continue with that feeling. Ahead is the stage in Spa, at one of the classic tracks. I’m looking forward to returning. If we have a flawless weekend, we will come home with a respectable result.”
Gabriel Bortoleto: “The points in Silverstone were a great result for the team and a nice reward for the work done. This will add motivation before a series of two consecutive races before the summer break.
Spa is a fantastic track, and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to unlock our car's potential, and I hope to fight for another strong result.”
Ferrari drivers have won two of the last three Grands Prix, allowing the Italian team to significantly close the gap to the leading Mercedes. In this situation, it is quite logical that Maranello is trying to build on this success, which is unlikely to be possible without accelerating the already high pace of modernization.
There is a risk that the weaknesses of the SF-26 car will be exposed on the long straights of the Belgian track in Spa, making it difficult to compete on equal terms with Mercedes. This was the case at the Austrian stage, but the Italian press reports that Ferrari is preparing at least two notable technical innovations for the Belgian Grand Prix.
Firstly, there is a new version of the movable rear wing, which has been nicknamed La Macarena in the paddock. It is said to be significantly more effective than the previous version, and if the calculations prove correct, the maximum speed at the end of the straights will increase by 11 km/h.
At the same time, there is currently special attention from the FIA on rear wings of this design, developed by Ferrari and then by Red Bull, due to malfunctions of this element on Max Verstappen's car, which led to some very dangerous accidents in Austria and Silverstone. However, Maranello is reportedly confident in the full legality of its developments and does not fear that the federation may intervene and ban something.
The second innovation is related to the so-called "STM system," i.e., a miniature aerodynamic element located near the exhaust pipe and having a dual purpose: on the straights, it helps reduce the effectiveness of the rear wing while simultaneously creating an area of negative pressure behind the diffuser.
Since such solutions will be banned in 2027, during the practice session preceding the Austrian Grand Prix, the Scuderia already tested a version of the aerodynamic package without STM – the car was then driven by Dino Beganovich.
It is said that in Spa, Ferrari plans to take a risk, and the cars of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will not have this element, which will lead to a decrease in the level of downforce generated in the rear part of the car. However, in case of worsening weather conditions, the team will have to decide whether to rely on the drivers' skills and hope they can handle the car in this configuration or to reinstate the STM at the last moment.
How the Scuderia will act will be revealed in just a few days.
There is a risk that the weaknesses of the SF-26 car will be exposed on the long straights of the Belgian track in Spa, making it difficult to compete on equal terms with Mercedes. This was the case at the Austrian stage, but the Italian press reports that Ferrari is preparing at least two notable technical innovations for the Belgian Grand Prix.
Firstly, there is a new version of the movable rear wing, which has been nicknamed La Macarena in the paddock. It is said to be significantly more effective than the previous version, and if the calculations prove correct, the maximum speed at the end of the straights will increase by 11 km/h.
At the same time, there is currently special attention from the FIA on rear wings of this design, developed by Ferrari and then by Red Bull, due to malfunctions of this element on Max Verstappen's car, which led to some very dangerous accidents in Austria and Silverstone. However, Maranello is reportedly confident in the full legality of its developments and does not fear that the federation may intervene and ban something.
The second innovation is related to the so-called "STM system," i.e., a miniature aerodynamic element located near the exhaust pipe and having a dual purpose: on the straights, it helps reduce the effectiveness of the rear wing while simultaneously creating an area of negative pressure behind the diffuser.
Since such solutions will be banned in 2027, during the practice session preceding the Austrian Grand Prix, the Scuderia already tested a version of the aerodynamic package without STM – the car was then driven by Dino Beganovich.
It is said that in Spa, Ferrari plans to take a risk, and the cars of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will not have this element, which will lead to a decrease in the level of downforce generated in the rear part of the car. However, in case of worsening weather conditions, the team will have to decide whether to rely on the drivers' skills and hope they can handle the car in this configuration or to reinstate the STM at the last moment.
How the Scuderia will act will be revealed in just a few days.
Esteban Ocon: Spa has its own distinct character
The tenth stage of the season, the Belgian Grand Prix, will take place on the classic Spa circuit, which needs no introduction. Esteban Ocon, a Haas F1 driver, has special memories associated with it, which he shared in an interview with the American team's press service.
Question: One of the brightest moments of your career associated with the Spa circuit is the fact that you made your Formula 1 debut there ten years ago. What do you remember most about that August weekend in 2016?
Esteban Ocon: I was about to race against such celebrities as Jenson Button and Kimi Raikkonen, whom I had only seen on TV before, and now I was competing with them on the same track, and it was incredible! But I needed to quickly get rid of those kinds of emotions and just focus on the race.
There were many feelings, but the experience I gained then played an important role, becoming a sort of prologue to everything that awaited me in the future. Another unforgettable moment dates back to 2018 when I was 3rd in qualifying. And last year in the sprint qualifying at Spa, we almost repeated it, but then I showed the 5th time.
In fact, there are many more bright moments associated with the Spa circuit, that's for sure. I often performed quite well there, but due to the whims of the local weather, you never know what the result will be.
Question: What makes the Belgian circuit so challenging for drivers?
Esteban Ocon: It has always been challenging, both because of its character and the elevation changes. The Eau Rouge corner demands special respect; you can never take it lightly. The changeable weather complicates everything even more.
The Belgian circuit is also unique because it is a very fast track. You can feel that old-school racetracks were built differently than modern ones, so they have their own distinct character.
I have many feelings associated with the Spa circuit, not always pleasant. There were also very difficult moments, primarily referring to the death of Antoine Hubert in 2019...
Question: You already mentioned your best qualifying result, which you achieved in 2018. What should be considered first to complete a good lap at the Spa circuit?
Esteban Ocon: When the opportunity arises, you need to try to complete a normal lap, but without taking too many risks – this is especially important in changing weather conditions. This can be the ideal scenario when the track is drying, but then it can start raining again. Or vice versa, the weather can improve. The window of opportunity when there is a chance to complete a good lap at Spa is always quite narrow.
In 2018, I saw that many other drivers made mistakes and went off the track, so I just tried to complete a full lap, and it turned out quite well – I showed the third time. When conditions allow, you need to attack with full force, but when they are difficult, you just need to try to put everything together.
Question: In the past, you performed well both in the rain and in changing weather conditions. How do you prepare for such races, and can your strong qualities manifest in such cases?
Esteban Ocon: In fact, I have never had a car that allowed me to show high results on a dry track – I think that's why I managed to achieve something on wet asphalt. I tried to take advantage of the opportunities that arise in such conditions.
When it starts to rain, it can level the playing field – this doesn't happen all the time, but sometimes it does.
Question: Your move to Haas F1 was also confirmed at Spa – that was in July 2024. Has much changed since then?
Esteban Ocon: A lot is happening, and my career resembles a roller coaster. Of course, there have been both joyful moments and unpleasant ones. In Spa in 2024, we had a long conversation with Ayo Komatsu, and we decided to sign the contract. I was very happy to move to Haas; we continue to work hard, trying to achieve improvements, and I enjoy working in this team.
The tenth stage of the season, the Belgian Grand Prix, will take place on the classic Spa circuit, which needs no introduction. Esteban Ocon, a Haas F1 driver, has special memories associated with it, which he shared in an interview with the American team's press service.
Question: One of the brightest moments of your career associated with the Spa circuit is the fact that you made your Formula 1 debut there ten years ago. What do you remember most about that August weekend in 2016?
Esteban Ocon: I was about to race against such celebrities as Jenson Button and Kimi Raikkonen, whom I had only seen on TV before, and now I was competing with them on the same track, and it was incredible! But I needed to quickly get rid of those kinds of emotions and just focus on the race.
There were many feelings, but the experience I gained then played an important role, becoming a sort of prologue to everything that awaited me in the future. Another unforgettable moment dates back to 2018 when I was 3rd in qualifying. And last year in the sprint qualifying at Spa, we almost repeated it, but then I showed the 5th time.
In fact, there are many more bright moments associated with the Spa circuit, that's for sure. I often performed quite well there, but due to the whims of the local weather, you never know what the result will be.
Question: What makes the Belgian circuit so challenging for drivers?
Esteban Ocon: It has always been challenging, both because of its character and the elevation changes. The Eau Rouge corner demands special respect; you can never take it lightly. The changeable weather complicates everything even more.
The Belgian circuit is also unique because it is a very fast track. You can feel that old-school racetracks were built differently than modern ones, so they have their own distinct character.
I have many feelings associated with the Spa circuit, not always pleasant. There were also very difficult moments, primarily referring to the death of Antoine Hubert in 2019...
Question: You already mentioned your best qualifying result, which you achieved in 2018. What should be considered first to complete a good lap at the Spa circuit?
Esteban Ocon: When the opportunity arises, you need to try to complete a normal lap, but without taking too many risks – this is especially important in changing weather conditions. This can be the ideal scenario when the track is drying, but then it can start raining again. Or vice versa, the weather can improve. The window of opportunity when there is a chance to complete a good lap at Spa is always quite narrow.
In 2018, I saw that many other drivers made mistakes and went off the track, so I just tried to complete a full lap, and it turned out quite well – I showed the third time. When conditions allow, you need to attack with full force, but when they are difficult, you just need to try to put everything together.
Question: In the past, you performed well both in the rain and in changing weather conditions. How do you prepare for such races, and can your strong qualities manifest in such cases?
Esteban Ocon: In fact, I have never had a car that allowed me to show high results on a dry track – I think that's why I managed to achieve something on wet asphalt. I tried to take advantage of the opportunities that arise in such conditions.
When it starts to rain, it can level the playing field – this doesn't happen all the time, but sometimes it does.
Question: Your move to Haas F1 was also confirmed at Spa – that was in July 2024. Has much changed since then?
Esteban Ocon: A lot is happening, and my career resembles a roller coaster. Of course, there have been both joyful moments and unpleasant ones. In Spa in 2024, we had a long conversation with Ayo Komatsu, and we decided to sign the contract. I was very happy to move to Haas; we continue to work hard, trying to achieve improvements, and I enjoy working in this team.
Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur shared in the traditional preview ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix how the team is preparing for the upcoming race.
Frederic Vasseur: "We are heading to Spa, understanding that we are facing a very challenging weekend. This is one of the toughest races of the season, which is due to both the characteristics of the track and the weather in the Ardennes, which can change at any moment.
We know we can rely on a cohesive team, where everyone works towards a common goal, as well as on two drivers who interact well with each other and constantly push each other forward on the track.
As always, our task is to achieve the best possible result and to conduct the entire weekend flawlessly – from the first practice to the checkered flag."
Frederic Vasseur: "We are heading to Spa, understanding that we are facing a very challenging weekend. This is one of the toughest races of the season, which is due to both the characteristics of the track and the weather in the Ardennes, which can change at any moment.
We know we can rely on a cohesive team, where everyone works towards a common goal, as well as on two drivers who interact well with each other and constantly push each other forward on the track.
As always, our task is to achieve the best possible result and to conduct the entire weekend flawlessly – from the first practice to the checkered flag."
At the Spa stage, for the sixth time this season, the duties of the third steward will be performed by former Formula 1 and GT driver Pedro Lamy. Along with him, the controversial moments will be analyzed by a representative of the German association DMSB, DTM steward Dr. Gerd Ennser, and member of the Australian Rally Commission Matthew Selly. This season, the stewards have included: Pedro Lamy in Australia, China, Canada, Austria, and the UK; Derek Warwick in Japan, Monaco, and Barcelona; and Vitantonio Liuzzi in Miami.