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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.
The likelihood is increasing that the 2026 World Endurance Championship will conclude in Europe. The organizers of the WEC, the French company Le Mans Endurance Management (LMEM), have to once again adjust the season calendar due to the sharp escalation of the situation in the Middle East.
It is about the fact that the stages in Qatar and Bahrain will be replaced by races in Barcelona and Monza, and last weekend in São Paulo, the championship teams already received the revised version of the calendar, although it still needs to be approved at the upcoming meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council scheduled for July 23.
In the spring, LMEM already had to make urgent changes to the season calendar, which ultimately started not in Qatar, but in Imola. Now, after the September "6 Hours of Fuji," it is proposed to return to Europe and hold a race in Barcelona on October 18.
Then, according to the new plan, the season finale will take place on November 7 in Monza – this date was originally scheduled for the "8 Hours of Bahrain."
The difficulty is that the WEC stage at the Catalan circuit will coincide with the finale of the European GT World Challenge series, which will take place in Portimão. About two dozen drivers compete in both championships, as do the teams WRT, Garage 59, and AF Corse.
As a result, the SRO Motorsports Group, the promoters of the leading European GT3 racing series, have to find ways to minimize the consequences of such unpleasant overlaps. One option suggests holding the GT Challenge race on Saturday, October 17, so that its participants can make it to the start of the WEC stage in Barcelona the next day.
It is said that Stefan Ratel, the promoter of the GT World Challenge, is willing to go for this, for which LMEM is very grateful to him. But the consequences of the WEC calendar adjustment do not end there: if the races in Qatar and Bahrain were supposed to last 8 and 10 hours respectively, then the stages in Monza and Barcelona can last a maximum of 6 hours – taking into account both the seasonal factor and the characteristics of these tracks.
According to the WEC regulations, the winners of such races receive only the standard 25 points, while more prolonged stages award 38 prize points. Accordingly, some drivers and teams will find it much more difficult to make up for the gap from their competitors if they were hoping to improve their standings towards the end of the season.
It is about the fact that the stages in Qatar and Bahrain will be replaced by races in Barcelona and Monza, and last weekend in São Paulo, the championship teams already received the revised version of the calendar, although it still needs to be approved at the upcoming meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council scheduled for July 23.
In the spring, LMEM already had to make urgent changes to the season calendar, which ultimately started not in Qatar, but in Imola. Now, after the September "6 Hours of Fuji," it is proposed to return to Europe and hold a race in Barcelona on October 18.
Then, according to the new plan, the season finale will take place on November 7 in Monza – this date was originally scheduled for the "8 Hours of Bahrain."
The difficulty is that the WEC stage at the Catalan circuit will coincide with the finale of the European GT World Challenge series, which will take place in Portimão. About two dozen drivers compete in both championships, as do the teams WRT, Garage 59, and AF Corse.
As a result, the SRO Motorsports Group, the promoters of the leading European GT3 racing series, have to find ways to minimize the consequences of such unpleasant overlaps. One option suggests holding the GT Challenge race on Saturday, October 17, so that its participants can make it to the start of the WEC stage in Barcelona the next day.
It is said that Stefan Ratel, the promoter of the GT World Challenge, is willing to go for this, for which LMEM is very grateful to him. But the consequences of the WEC calendar adjustment do not end there: if the races in Qatar and Bahrain were supposed to last 8 and 10 hours respectively, then the stages in Monza and Barcelona can last a maximum of 6 hours – taking into account both the seasonal factor and the characteristics of these tracks.
According to the WEC regulations, the winners of such races receive only the standard 25 points, while more prolonged stages award 38 prize points. Accordingly, some drivers and teams will find it much more difficult to make up for the gap from their competitors if they were hoping to improve their standings towards the end of the season.
Team principal of Mercedes Toto Wolff is eagerly awaiting the Belgian Grand Prix…
Toto Wolff: “The last few races have shown our strengths – and those moments we still need to work on. The car allows us to compete at the front, earn a lot of points, although we haven’t always been able to realize its potential. Reliability issues have cost us many points, and in such a tight championship battle, that is unacceptable. What’s the point of speed if we’re not earning points?
Spa is one of the most challenging tracks on the calendar. As in Silverstone, energy management will play an important role, but the configuration has its own demands. Races here are usually interesting, but a lot will be decided in qualifying.
This is the last of two consecutive races before the summer break, and we want to go on vacation in good shape. Our goal is to perform cleanly, ensure the necessary reliability, and convert the car’s potential into points that it is capable of earning. We have missed a lot lately. But starting from this weekend, we need to do everything to ensure that it doesn’t happen again.”
Toto Wolff: “The last few races have shown our strengths – and those moments we still need to work on. The car allows us to compete at the front, earn a lot of points, although we haven’t always been able to realize its potential. Reliability issues have cost us many points, and in such a tight championship battle, that is unacceptable. What’s the point of speed if we’re not earning points?
Spa is one of the most challenging tracks on the calendar. As in Silverstone, energy management will play an important role, but the configuration has its own demands. Races here are usually interesting, but a lot will be decided in qualifying.
This is the last of two consecutive races before the summer break, and we want to go on vacation in good shape. Our goal is to perform cleanly, ensure the necessary reliability, and convert the car’s potential into points that it is capable of earning. We have missed a lot lately. But starting from this weekend, we need to do everything to ensure that it doesn’t happen again.”
The forecast for the weekend in Spa promises changeable weather. On Friday, it will be hot, with temperatures rising to 26 degrees during the day, accompanied by gusty northeast winds and a 10% chance of precipitation. On Saturday, the heat will subside, and the wind will strengthen. During the day, it will only be +23°C. On Sunday, it will be cloudy and +20°C. The chance of precipitation is around 10% throughout the day. Last year, the weekend in Spa was dry, except for the Sunday race.
Max Verstappen's manager Raymond Vermeulen commented on the rumors about the possible departure of the four-time world champion from Red Bull Racing before the race weekend in Spa. Vermeulen reminded of Max's words that he would like to end his career in Formula 1 with the current team.
Raymond Vermeulen: "A lot has been written about this topic lately. However, the truth is that Max wants to finish his career at Red Bull. He has a contract until the end of 2028, and he would like to see it through.
The fact that there is a clause in his contract allowing for an early exit does not mean that we will activate that clause. We could have activated it in recent years, but we did not."
Commenting on the meeting in Amsterdam with former Red Bull motorsport consultant Helmut Marko, Vermeulen was brief: "It was a private meeting, planned quite some time ago. Additionally, Max's sister is getting married."
Raymond Vermeulen: "A lot has been written about this topic lately. However, the truth is that Max wants to finish his career at Red Bull. He has a contract until the end of 2028, and he would like to see it through.
The fact that there is a clause in his contract allowing for an early exit does not mean that we will activate that clause. We could have activated it in recent years, but we did not."
Commenting on the meeting in Amsterdam with former Red Bull motorsport consultant Helmut Marko, Vermeulen was brief: "It was a private meeting, planned quite some time ago. Additionally, Max's sister is getting married."
The Belgian Grand Prix hasn't started yet, but Lando Norris will already lose ten places on the grid for Sunday's race. Such a penalty will be imposed on the McLaren driver because the team decided to change the control electronics unit on his car, installing the fourth one when only three replacements are allowed for the season. "The first control electronics unit on car number 1 failed in China, which prevented Lando from starting the race," McLaren's statement said. "The second control electronics unit on Lando's car, installed in Japan, required removal for repairs after issues arose during free practice. This forced us to switch to the third and final control electronics unit within the allowed limit. After the Japanese Grand Prix, the second unit was repaired, but it failed again during the second practice in Monaco, after which we excluded it from the available components. The unit we installed in Japan and used in every session after Miami worked reliably. However, since then, Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains has implemented a number of solutions to improve the reliability of their new control electronics systems. To take advantage of these improvements, we need to install a new component and incur a penalty of ten grid positions for Lando. We decided to do this in Belgium, where overtaking is relatively easy, rather than at the next two rounds in Hungary and Zandvoort. Now we plan to use this fourth electronics unit until the end of the season to maximize reliability while minimizing sporting penalties for Lando."
Red Bull Racing drivers are preparing for a challenging Belgian Grand Prix. Max Verstappen and Isaac Hadjar do not expect to be among the leaders this upcoming weekend.
Max Verstappen: "It's good that we had a little break. The weekend in Silverstone was tough, and last week I was at the team's base working on the simulator.
As for Spa, it's my favorite track on the calendar, and I'm always happy to return to it. I think this time the race might be more difficult due to restrictions related to the use of electric power on the long straights, but historically we've always been strong here, so you never know how it will turn out.
This weekend I will again start with a specially designed helmet. It's a tribute to our fans who have supported me in Spa for many years."
Isaac Hadjar: "Last weekend I was at Goodwood, where I got to drive the RB17 and RB9. For any driver, the sound of such cars is something special, so I had an amazing experience.
In the two-race series before the summer break, my team and I intend to do everything possible. Throughout the European part of the season, I've been performing consistently, and now I want to maintain that level and earn even more points.
Spa is a legendary track. Due to the new regulations, it will feel quite different, and for us drivers, it will be a new challenge. In terms of characteristics, it is similar to Silverstone, so we do not expect to be among the leaders. But I hope we can use everything we learned in the last race this weekend."
Max Verstappen: "It's good that we had a little break. The weekend in Silverstone was tough, and last week I was at the team's base working on the simulator.
As for Spa, it's my favorite track on the calendar, and I'm always happy to return to it. I think this time the race might be more difficult due to restrictions related to the use of electric power on the long straights, but historically we've always been strong here, so you never know how it will turn out.
This weekend I will again start with a specially designed helmet. It's a tribute to our fans who have supported me in Spa for many years."
Isaac Hadjar: "Last weekend I was at Goodwood, where I got to drive the RB17 and RB9. For any driver, the sound of such cars is something special, so I had an amazing experience.
In the two-race series before the summer break, my team and I intend to do everything possible. Throughout the European part of the season, I've been performing consistently, and now I want to maintain that level and earn even more points.
Spa is a legendary track. Due to the new regulations, it will feel quite different, and for us drivers, it will be a new challenge. In terms of characteristics, it is similar to Silverstone, so we do not expect to be among the leaders. But I hope we can use everything we learned in the last race this weekend."
Before the Belgian Grand Prix, Williams' chief race engineer Paul Williams spoke about the factors that could influence the weekend's proceedings…
Question: What are the main technical challenges of the Spa circuit?
Paul Williams: Spa is one of the most challenging and diverse circuits, combining long straights with fast and slow corners. The car needs to be quick on the straights but also handle sharp direction changes well. In the famous Eau Rouge, the height and travel of the suspension need to be precisely tuned. Additionally, the weather always remains unpredictable – rain can come at any moment during this Grand Prix.
Question: How will the 2026 regulations affect the approach to the weekend?
Paul Williams: Spa is the most energy-consuming circuit we've seen this year. Approaching Eau Rouge, you can change your trajectory; in 2026, five speed limit zones were added, and all of them remain active in wet conditions.
Question: What strategic considerations should be taken into account during the race?
Paul Williams: Spa is the second easiest circuit this year for overtaking, but the ability to conserve battery charge will be crucial. This shifts the balance of priorities towards the race. It is expected that the race will be run with one pit stop – and the main question will be which tires to start on – Medium or Soft.
Moreover, there is a high likelihood of a safety car deployment at Spa, and the weather often changes. Teams need to react quickly to changing conditions, which will play a very important role.
Question: What are the main technical challenges of the Spa circuit?
Paul Williams: Spa is one of the most challenging and diverse circuits, combining long straights with fast and slow corners. The car needs to be quick on the straights but also handle sharp direction changes well. In the famous Eau Rouge, the height and travel of the suspension need to be precisely tuned. Additionally, the weather always remains unpredictable – rain can come at any moment during this Grand Prix.
Question: How will the 2026 regulations affect the approach to the weekend?
Paul Williams: Spa is the most energy-consuming circuit we've seen this year. Approaching Eau Rouge, you can change your trajectory; in 2026, five speed limit zones were added, and all of them remain active in wet conditions.
Question: What strategic considerations should be taken into account during the race?
Paul Williams: Spa is the second easiest circuit this year for overtaking, but the ability to conserve battery charge will be crucial. This shifts the balance of priorities towards the race. It is expected that the race will be run with one pit stop – and the main question will be which tires to start on – Medium or Soft.
Moreover, there is a high likelihood of a safety car deployment at Spa, and the weather often changes. Teams need to react quickly to changing conditions, which will play a very important role.
Before the Belgian Grand Prix, Williams' chief race engineer Paul Williams spoke about the factors that could influence the weekend's proceedings...
Question: What are the main technical challenges of the Spa circuit?
Paul Williams: Spa is one of the most challenging and diverse circuits, combining long straights with fast and slow corners. The car needs to be quick on the straights but also handle sharp direction changes well. In the famous Eau Rouge, the height and travel of the suspension need to be precisely tuned. Additionally, the weather always remains unpredictable – rain can come at any moment during this Grand Prix.
Question: How will the 2026 regulations affect the approach to the weekend?
Paul Williams: Spa is the most energy-demanding circuit we've seen this year. Approaching Eau Rouge, you can change the trajectory, and in 2026, five speed limit zones were added, all of which remain active in wet conditions.
Question: What strategic considerations should be taken into account during the race?
Paul Williams: Spa is the second easiest circuit this year for overtaking, but the ability to conserve battery charge will be crucial. This shifts the balance of priorities towards the race. It is expected that the race will take place with one pit stop – and the main question will be which tires to start on – Medium or Soft.
Moreover, there is a high likelihood of a safety car deployment at Spa, and the weather often changes. Teams need to react quickly to changing conditions, which will play a very important role.
Question: What are the main technical challenges of the Spa circuit?
Paul Williams: Spa is one of the most challenging and diverse circuits, combining long straights with fast and slow corners. The car needs to be quick on the straights but also handle sharp direction changes well. In the famous Eau Rouge, the height and travel of the suspension need to be precisely tuned. Additionally, the weather always remains unpredictable – rain can come at any moment during this Grand Prix.
Question: How will the 2026 regulations affect the approach to the weekend?
Paul Williams: Spa is the most energy-demanding circuit we've seen this year. Approaching Eau Rouge, you can change the trajectory, and in 2026, five speed limit zones were added, all of which remain active in wet conditions.
Question: What strategic considerations should be taken into account during the race?
Paul Williams: Spa is the second easiest circuit this year for overtaking, but the ability to conserve battery charge will be crucial. This shifts the balance of priorities towards the race. It is expected that the race will take place with one pit stop – and the main question will be which tires to start on – Medium or Soft.
Moreover, there is a high likelihood of a safety car deployment at Spa, and the weather often changes. Teams need to react quickly to changing conditions, which will play a very important role.
On the eve of the Belgian Grand Prix, the FIA announced changes to the track and confirmed the locations of the activation zones for the overtake mode (OT) and SM (Straight Mode) zones. Compared to last year, the following changes have been made at Spa:
New gates have been installed on the right side at the exit of the pit lane;
The protective wall has been extended on the right side before the second turn;
Special grooves have been cut into the asphalt on the Kemmel straight between the fourth and fifth turns to improve water drainage during rain;
The top layer of asphalt has been partially removed at the 14th turn to eliminate surface irregularities;
A section of artificial grass has been removed and replaced with asphalt behind the inner curb at the 5th turn;
The height of the inner curb has been reduced at the 18th turn.
There is one overtaking mode zone on the Belgian track. The detection point for this zone is located at the entrance to the 19th turn. If a driver is within one second of the opponent's car at the measurement point, they will be able to activate the overtake mode, receiving an additional 0.5 MJ of electrical energy. The activation point for the overtake mode is 130 meters after the 19th turn.
The SM zones are divided into two subsections – zones where active aerodynamics are used under normal tire grip conditions (both the rear and front wings can be opened) and under reduced grip conditions (on a wet track, only the front wing can be opened).
Under normal grip conditions, active aerodynamics can be used in sections that begin 190 meters after the 19th turn, 140 meters after the 1st, 60 meters after the 4th, 140 meters after the 15th, and 80 meters after the 17th.
Under reduced grip conditions, active aerodynamics can be used in sections that begin 240 meters after the 19th turn, 195 meters after the 1st, 360 meters after the 4th, 190 meters after the 15th, and 110 meters after the 17th.
New gates have been installed on the right side at the exit of the pit lane;
The protective wall has been extended on the right side before the second turn;
Special grooves have been cut into the asphalt on the Kemmel straight between the fourth and fifth turns to improve water drainage during rain;
The top layer of asphalt has been partially removed at the 14th turn to eliminate surface irregularities;
A section of artificial grass has been removed and replaced with asphalt behind the inner curb at the 5th turn;
The height of the inner curb has been reduced at the 18th turn.
There is one overtaking mode zone on the Belgian track. The detection point for this zone is located at the entrance to the 19th turn. If a driver is within one second of the opponent's car at the measurement point, they will be able to activate the overtake mode, receiving an additional 0.5 MJ of electrical energy. The activation point for the overtake mode is 130 meters after the 19th turn.
The SM zones are divided into two subsections – zones where active aerodynamics are used under normal tire grip conditions (both the rear and front wings can be opened) and under reduced grip conditions (on a wet track, only the front wing can be opened).
Under normal grip conditions, active aerodynamics can be used in sections that begin 190 meters after the 19th turn, 140 meters after the 1st, 60 meters after the 4th, 140 meters after the 15th, and 80 meters after the 17th.
Under reduced grip conditions, active aerodynamics can be used in sections that begin 240 meters after the 19th turn, 195 meters after the 1st, 360 meters after the 4th, 190 meters after the 15th, and 110 meters after the 17th.
On the eve of the Belgian Grand Prix, the FIA announced changes to the track and confirmed the locations of the activation zones for the Overtake Mode (OT) and SM (Straight Mode) zones. Compared to last year, the following changes have been made at Spa:
New gates have been installed on the right side at the pit lane exit;
The safety wall has been extended on the right side before the second turn;
Special grooves have been cut into the asphalt on the Kemmel straight between the fourth and fifth turns to improve water drainage during rain;
The top layer of asphalt has been partially removed at the 14th turn to eliminate surface irregularities;
A section of artificial grass has been removed and replaced with asphalt behind the curb at the 5th turn;
The height of the inner curb has been reduced at the 18th turn.
There is one overtaking mode zone on the Belgian track. The detection point for this zone is located at the entrance to the 19th turn. If a driver is within one second of the competitor's car at the measurement point, they will be able to activate the overtaking mode, receiving an additional 0.5 MJ of electrical energy. The activation point for the overtaking mode is 130 meters after the 19th turn.
The SM zones are divided into two subsections – zones where active aerodynamics are used under normal tire grip conditions (the rear and front wings can be opened) and under reduced grip conditions (on a wet track, only the front wing can be opened).
Under normal grip conditions, active aerodynamics can be used in sections that begin 190 meters after the 19th turn, 140 meters after the 1st, 60 meters after the 4th, 140 meters after the 15th, and 80 meters after the 17th.
Under reduced grip conditions, active aerodynamics can be used in sections that begin 240 meters after the 19th turn, 195 meters after the 1st, 360 meters after the 4th, 190 meters after the 15th, and 110 meters after the 17th.
New gates have been installed on the right side at the pit lane exit;
The safety wall has been extended on the right side before the second turn;
Special grooves have been cut into the asphalt on the Kemmel straight between the fourth and fifth turns to improve water drainage during rain;
The top layer of asphalt has been partially removed at the 14th turn to eliminate surface irregularities;
A section of artificial grass has been removed and replaced with asphalt behind the curb at the 5th turn;
The height of the inner curb has been reduced at the 18th turn.
There is one overtaking mode zone on the Belgian track. The detection point for this zone is located at the entrance to the 19th turn. If a driver is within one second of the competitor's car at the measurement point, they will be able to activate the overtaking mode, receiving an additional 0.5 MJ of electrical energy. The activation point for the overtaking mode is 130 meters after the 19th turn.
The SM zones are divided into two subsections – zones where active aerodynamics are used under normal tire grip conditions (the rear and front wings can be opened) and under reduced grip conditions (on a wet track, only the front wing can be opened).
Under normal grip conditions, active aerodynamics can be used in sections that begin 190 meters after the 19th turn, 140 meters after the 1st, 60 meters after the 4th, 140 meters after the 15th, and 80 meters after the 17th.
Under reduced grip conditions, active aerodynamics can be used in sections that begin 240 meters after the 19th turn, 195 meters after the 1st, 360 meters after the 4th, 190 meters after the 15th, and 110 meters after the 17th.