After the Hungarian Grand Prix, Williams team principal James Vowles summarized the recent race and the first half of the season in a video blog...
James Vowles: "The first half of the year has been incredibly challenging, and first and foremost, I want to thank everyone who has worked hard at our base to help us get out of a difficult situation after a tough start.
These challenges have significantly held us back; we are doing everything we can to get out of this situation, but it is even more important to ensure that everything is in place for 2027 and beyond. This is a huge amount of work. Over the winter, we clearly saw our problems, which turned out to be far more than we expected.
I am grateful to Alex and Carlos. They have supported the team throughout this journey, showing true resilience despite the difficulties they faced on the track. These two incredible drivers deserve to fight for points every weekend, and we have not been able to provide that for them.
We are going into the summer break with a sense of disappointment and a desire to fix everything in the future. In Baku, we will take a step forward, but it simply won't be enough to significantly change the situation and put us in the positions we need this season.
In fact, we still have the same drive to improve and move forward. We need to establish the foundations, develop what we already have, fix the elements that clearly aren't working, and come back to the fight with renewed strength.
Thank you to all the fans — your support means a lot to us. Days like today, I do not want to repeat — it is incredibly painful."
James Vowles: "The first half of the year has been incredibly challenging, and first and foremost, I want to thank everyone who has worked hard at our base to help us get out of a difficult situation after a tough start.
These challenges have significantly held us back; we are doing everything we can to get out of this situation, but it is even more important to ensure that everything is in place for 2027 and beyond. This is a huge amount of work. Over the winter, we clearly saw our problems, which turned out to be far more than we expected.
I am grateful to Alex and Carlos. They have supported the team throughout this journey, showing true resilience despite the difficulties they faced on the track. These two incredible drivers deserve to fight for points every weekend, and we have not been able to provide that for them.
We are going into the summer break with a sense of disappointment and a desire to fix everything in the future. In Baku, we will take a step forward, but it simply won't be enough to significantly change the situation and put us in the positions we need this season.
In fact, we still have the same drive to improve and move forward. We need to establish the foundations, develop what we already have, fix the elements that clearly aren't working, and come back to the fight with renewed strength.
Thank you to all the fans — your support means a lot to us. Days like today, I do not want to repeat — it is incredibly painful."
Kimi Antonelli is satisfied with how the first part of the season went and is looking forward to the continuation...
Question: Kimi, if you had started from a higher position, would you have been able to fight Lando for the win?
Kimi Antonelli: I don't know. Of course, if I had started third, everything would have been different. But I think Lando had the advantage this weekend, even over us.
In terms of pure pace, I don't think I would have been able to compete with him, especially considering how difficult it was to follow due to severe tire overheating. It would have been extremely challenging.
Otherwise, the team did an excellent job. As for the strategy, we initially decided to take a risk with a single tire change, but then we changed our minds when doubts about safety arose. But in the end, the team created conditions for me to fight for the podium. Great teamwork!
Question: Nine podiums in 11 races. Have these results exceeded your preseason expectations?
Kimi Antonelli: Of course. I didn't expect anything like this. But we have a great car, the team is doing an excellent job, and I am doing my best to make the most of every opportunity. Of course, there is still a lot of work ahead, and I have much to learn, but the first half of the season went well. Now I am looking forward to the continuation.
Question: The next race will take place in Zandvoort and will likely be the last at this track. How special will this weekend be for you?
Kimi Antonelli: It's a great track, it's fun to race there, although I didn't have a good experience last year. But from a purely racing perspective, it's an incredible track, especially in qualifying.
It's a pity that there will be no more races there. The fans in Zandvoort are very emotional, very passionate, and they cheer very loudly. It's nice to see. So, of course, it's very sad, but there's nothing we can do about it.
Question: Kimi, if you had started from a higher position, would you have been able to fight Lando for the win?
Kimi Antonelli: I don't know. Of course, if I had started third, everything would have been different. But I think Lando had the advantage this weekend, even over us.
In terms of pure pace, I don't think I would have been able to compete with him, especially considering how difficult it was to follow due to severe tire overheating. It would have been extremely challenging.
Otherwise, the team did an excellent job. As for the strategy, we initially decided to take a risk with a single tire change, but then we changed our minds when doubts about safety arose. But in the end, the team created conditions for me to fight for the podium. Great teamwork!
Question: Nine podiums in 11 races. Have these results exceeded your preseason expectations?
Kimi Antonelli: Of course. I didn't expect anything like this. But we have a great car, the team is doing an excellent job, and I am doing my best to make the most of every opportunity. Of course, there is still a lot of work ahead, and I have much to learn, but the first half of the season went well. Now I am looking forward to the continuation.
Question: The next race will take place in Zandvoort and will likely be the last at this track. How special will this weekend be for you?
Kimi Antonelli: It's a great track, it's fun to race there, although I didn't have a good experience last year. But from a purely racing perspective, it's an incredible track, especially in qualifying.
It's a pity that there will be no more races there. The fans in Zandvoort are very emotional, very passionate, and they cheer very loudly. It's nice to see. So, of course, it's very sad, but there's nothing we can do about it.
Kimi Antonelli is satisfied with how the first part of the season went and is looking forward to the continuation…
Question: Kimi, if you had started from a higher position, could you have fought with Lando for the win?
Kimi Antonelli: I don't know. Of course, if I had started third, everything would have been different. But I think Lando had the advantage this weekend, even over us.
In terms of pure pace, I don't think I could have fought with him, especially considering how difficult it was to follow due to severe tire overheating. It would have been extremely challenging.
Other than that, the team did an excellent job. As for the strategy, we initially decided to take a risk with a single tire change, but then we changed our minds when doubts about safety arose. But in the end, the team created conditions for me to fight for the podium. Great teamwork!
Question: Nine podiums in 11 races. Have these results exceeded your preseason expectations?
Kimi Antonelli: Of course. I didn't expect anything like this. But we have a great car, the team is doing an excellent job, and I am doing my best to make the most of every opportunity. Of course, there is still a lot of work ahead, much to learn, but the first half of the season went well. Now I am looking forward to the continuation.
Question: The next race will take place in Zandvoort and will likely be the last on this track. How special will this weekend be for you?
Kimi Antonelli: It's a great track, it's fun to race there, although I didn't have a good time last year. But from a purely racing perspective, it's an incredible track, especially in qualifying.
It's a shame there won't be any more races there. The fans in Zandvoort are very emotional, very passionate, and they cheer very loudly. It's nice to see. So, of course, it's very sad, but there's nothing we can do about it.
Question: Kimi, if you had started from a higher position, could you have fought with Lando for the win?
Kimi Antonelli: I don't know. Of course, if I had started third, everything would have been different. But I think Lando had the advantage this weekend, even over us.
In terms of pure pace, I don't think I could have fought with him, especially considering how difficult it was to follow due to severe tire overheating. It would have been extremely challenging.
Other than that, the team did an excellent job. As for the strategy, we initially decided to take a risk with a single tire change, but then we changed our minds when doubts about safety arose. But in the end, the team created conditions for me to fight for the podium. Great teamwork!
Question: Nine podiums in 11 races. Have these results exceeded your preseason expectations?
Kimi Antonelli: Of course. I didn't expect anything like this. But we have a great car, the team is doing an excellent job, and I am doing my best to make the most of every opportunity. Of course, there is still a lot of work ahead, much to learn, but the first half of the season went well. Now I am looking forward to the continuation.
Question: The next race will take place in Zandvoort and will likely be the last on this track. How special will this weekend be for you?
Kimi Antonelli: It's a great track, it's fun to race there, although I didn't have a good time last year. But from a purely racing perspective, it's an incredible track, especially in qualifying.
It's a shame there won't be any more races there. The fans in Zandvoort are very emotional, very passionate, and they cheer very loudly. It's nice to see. So, of course, it's very sad, but there's nothing we can do about it.
Statistics of drivers' performances in qualifications, sorted by average position in the protocol (starting position if not participated in qualifications) and without considering subsequent penalties.
Driver
Team
Average
Best
Worst
Session 1
Session 2
Session 3
Score
K. Antonelli
Mercedes
1.91
1
4
11
11
11
7 - 4
D. Russell
Mercedes
3.09
1
7
11
11
11
4 - 7
L. Hamilton
Ferrari
4.18
2
7
11
11
11
5 - 6
C. Leclerc
Ferrari
4.45
2
10
11
11
11
6 - 5
L. Norris
McLaren
4.73
1
8
11
11
11
7 - 4
O. Piastri
McLaren
5.91
3
8
11
11
11
4 - 7
M. Verstappen
Red Bull
6.73
2
20
11
10
9
8 - 3
A. Hadjar
Red Bull
7.09
3
10
11
11
11
3 - 8
L. Lawson
Racing Bulls
10.82
8
14
11
11
5
6 - 5
P. Gasly
Alpine
11.09
7
14
11
11
4
8 - 3
A. Lindblad
Racing Bulls
11.09
8
17
11
10
7
5 - 6
N. Hulkenberg
Audi
11.82
9
14
11
11
2
6 - 5
G. Bortoleto
Audi
13.09
9
22
10
8
3
5 - 6
F. Colapinto
Alpine
13.55
8
19
11
8
2
3 - 8
O. Berman
Haas F1
14.82
10
19
11
6
1
8 - 3
E. Ocon
Haas F1
15.36
12
18
11
6
0
3 - 8
C. Sainz
Williams
16
12
21
10
5
0
9 - 2
A. Albon
Williams
16.64
11
19
11
2
0
2 - 9
F. Alonso
Aston Martin
19.73
16
22
5
0
0
9 - 2
S. Perez
Cadillac
19.82
18
22
8
0
0
6 - 5
V. Bottas
Cadillac
19.91
18
22
9
0
0
5 - 6
L. Stroll
Aston Martin
21.18
19
22
2
0
0
2 - 9
Driver
Team
Average
Best
Worst
Session 1
Session 2
Session 3
Score
K. Antonelli
Mercedes
1.91
1
4
11
11
11
7 - 4
D. Russell
Mercedes
3.09
1
7
11
11
11
4 - 7
L. Hamilton
Ferrari
4.18
2
7
11
11
11
5 - 6
C. Leclerc
Ferrari
4.45
2
10
11
11
11
6 - 5
L. Norris
McLaren
4.73
1
8
11
11
11
7 - 4
O. Piastri
McLaren
5.91
3
8
11
11
11
4 - 7
M. Verstappen
Red Bull
6.73
2
20
11
10
9
8 - 3
A. Hadjar
Red Bull
7.09
3
10
11
11
11
3 - 8
L. Lawson
Racing Bulls
10.82
8
14
11
11
5
6 - 5
P. Gasly
Alpine
11.09
7
14
11
11
4
8 - 3
A. Lindblad
Racing Bulls
11.09
8
17
11
10
7
5 - 6
N. Hulkenberg
Audi
11.82
9
14
11
11
2
6 - 5
G. Bortoleto
Audi
13.09
9
22
10
8
3
5 - 6
F. Colapinto
Alpine
13.55
8
19
11
8
2
3 - 8
O. Berman
Haas F1
14.82
10
19
11
6
1
8 - 3
E. Ocon
Haas F1
15.36
12
18
11
6
0
3 - 8
C. Sainz
Williams
16
12
21
10
5
0
9 - 2
A. Albon
Williams
16.64
11
19
11
2
0
2 - 9
F. Alonso
Aston Martin
19.73
16
22
5
0
0
9 - 2
S. Perez
Cadillac
19.82
18
22
8
0
0
6 - 5
V. Bottas
Cadillac
19.91
18
22
9
0
0
5 - 6
L. Stroll
Aston Martin
21.18
19
22
2
0
0
2 - 9
After the Hungarian Grand Prix, three teams remained at the Hungaroring to assist Pirelli with the next tests of tire prototypes for the 2027 season – Aston Martin, Audi, and Alpine. They worked on Pirelli's program regarding the compounds and construction of slicks.
The three teams starting with "A" provided personnel, cars, and drivers. On the track were Gabriel Bortoleto in the Audi, Jack Crawford in the Aston Martin, and Franco Colapinto in the Alpine.
Throughout the day, all three drivers completed a series of test laps on different versions of the C3 tires, after which they ran long stints to assess the performance and wear of the most promising options. Colapinto and Bortoleto also worked with the C4 and C5 compounds on both short and long stints.
Franco Colapinto completed 128 laps with a best time of 1:20.371. Gabriel Bortoleto completed 141 laps with a best time of 1:20.813, while Jack Crawford completed 136 laps with a best time of 1:24.598.
The tests will continue tomorrow: only Colapinto and Bortoleto will take to the track, working on a program similar to the one executed today.
The three teams starting with "A" provided personnel, cars, and drivers. On the track were Gabriel Bortoleto in the Audi, Jack Crawford in the Aston Martin, and Franco Colapinto in the Alpine.
Throughout the day, all three drivers completed a series of test laps on different versions of the C3 tires, after which they ran long stints to assess the performance and wear of the most promising options. Colapinto and Bortoleto also worked with the C4 and C5 compounds on both short and long stints.
Franco Colapinto completed 128 laps with a best time of 1:20.371. Gabriel Bortoleto completed 141 laps with a best time of 1:20.813, while Jack Crawford completed 136 laps with a best time of 1:24.598.
The tests will continue tomorrow: only Colapinto and Bortoleto will take to the track, working on a program similar to the one executed today.
Stefano Domenicali: The season may end in Europe
After the Hungarian Grand Prix, Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali held a press meeting during which he commented on the first half of 2026, shared news about the calendar for the remainder of the season, changes in regulations, and other future plans.
Stefano Domenicali: "The season is becoming very, very interesting. There are many events happening on the track, and fans love it. It's just phenomenal how the situation has changed since the beginning of the season. This shows that Formula 1 is capable of responding to any technical challenges. I remember very well how at the beginning of the year some said that the title fight was already over and that Mercedes would dominate the entire season.
In fact, this is not the case, and a lot will happen before the end of the year. Other teams will emerge that can compete for victories. There will also be other drivers who can win races. All these factors make the season very interesting, and I think that everyone will be following what happens until the end of the year. In short, we are looking at the second half of the season with great optimism."
Domenicali commented on the return of the Sepang circuit to the calendar, which will host the Bahrain Grand Prix, and spoke about plans if the situation in the Middle East does not allow races to be held in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
"Together we found a new way to hold the Grand Prix in Malaysia," says Stefano Domenicali. "This is an example of cooperation and the willingness to think broader than usual. I want to thank the Kingdom of Bahrain, the organizers of the Grand Prix, and the Kingdom of Malaysia for seeing the opportunity to bring back a circuit that was once part of Formula 1.
As for the end of the season, we are in contact with all stakeholders. Our structure allows us to leave ourselves maximum time to understand how the situation will develop and make a decision at the right moment.
This will happen no earlier than mid-September. At the moment, we believe that the stages in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are confirmed. But, of course, if by mid-September the situation does not clarify as we deem necessary, we will make a decision.
In this regard, I want to confirm that if holding the two aforementioned races proves impossible, the season will conclude in Europe."
Reflecting on the 2027 season calendar, the Formula 1 president stated: "For now, the calendar that will be presented, say, in the fall, looks like a regular plan. But, of course, if the situation in the Middle East does not resolve, we have options.
The decisive moment will be the end of the year, so we still have plenty of time for adjustments. We have prepared several different options that will allow us to hold 24 Grands Prix next year regardless."
Stefano Domenicali also said a few words about the technical regulations: "The effect of the changes already made has been exceptionally positive. At the same time, it is natural that in sports it is necessary to discuss what is happening and listen to the opinions of all drivers, teams, and power unit manufacturers.
I think the right decisions have been made regarding the regulations. It is good that the FIA is willing to listen to the comments of manufacturers and drivers. I think the drivers who have already tested the changes in next year's regulations on the simulator understand that we are moving in the right direction."
The success of Kimi Antonelli has become one of the main topics of the first half of the season. Stefano Domenicali talked about how important the young Italian's victories are for Formula 1: "He is young, has very little experience so far, and is open to everything that happens to him.
Thanks to Kimi, we have gained many new fans, as he interacts wonderfully with the audience. From a sporting perspective, he has proven to be very strong.
After the Hungarian Grand Prix, Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali held a press meeting during which he commented on the first half of 2026, shared news about the calendar for the remainder of the season, changes in regulations, and other future plans.
Stefano Domenicali: "The season is becoming very, very interesting. There are many events happening on the track, and fans love it. It's just phenomenal how the situation has changed since the beginning of the season. This shows that Formula 1 is capable of responding to any technical challenges. I remember very well how at the beginning of the year some said that the title fight was already over and that Mercedes would dominate the entire season.
In fact, this is not the case, and a lot will happen before the end of the year. Other teams will emerge that can compete for victories. There will also be other drivers who can win races. All these factors make the season very interesting, and I think that everyone will be following what happens until the end of the year. In short, we are looking at the second half of the season with great optimism."
Domenicali commented on the return of the Sepang circuit to the calendar, which will host the Bahrain Grand Prix, and spoke about plans if the situation in the Middle East does not allow races to be held in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
"Together we found a new way to hold the Grand Prix in Malaysia," says Stefano Domenicali. "This is an example of cooperation and the willingness to think broader than usual. I want to thank the Kingdom of Bahrain, the organizers of the Grand Prix, and the Kingdom of Malaysia for seeing the opportunity to bring back a circuit that was once part of Formula 1.
As for the end of the season, we are in contact with all stakeholders. Our structure allows us to leave ourselves maximum time to understand how the situation will develop and make a decision at the right moment.
This will happen no earlier than mid-September. At the moment, we believe that the stages in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are confirmed. But, of course, if by mid-September the situation does not clarify as we deem necessary, we will make a decision.
In this regard, I want to confirm that if holding the two aforementioned races proves impossible, the season will conclude in Europe."
Reflecting on the 2027 season calendar, the Formula 1 president stated: "For now, the calendar that will be presented, say, in the fall, looks like a regular plan. But, of course, if the situation in the Middle East does not resolve, we have options.
The decisive moment will be the end of the year, so we still have plenty of time for adjustments. We have prepared several different options that will allow us to hold 24 Grands Prix next year regardless."
Stefano Domenicali also said a few words about the technical regulations: "The effect of the changes already made has been exceptionally positive. At the same time, it is natural that in sports it is necessary to discuss what is happening and listen to the opinions of all drivers, teams, and power unit manufacturers.
I think the right decisions have been made regarding the regulations. It is good that the FIA is willing to listen to the comments of manufacturers and drivers. I think the drivers who have already tested the changes in next year's regulations on the simulator understand that we are moving in the right direction."
The success of Kimi Antonelli has become one of the main topics of the first half of the season. Stefano Domenicali talked about how important the young Italian's victories are for Formula 1: "He is young, has very little experience so far, and is open to everything that happens to him.
Thanks to Kimi, we have gained many new fans, as he interacts wonderfully with the audience. From a sporting perspective, he has proven to be very strong.
Kimi Antonelli will lose three places on the grid for tomorrow's race and received 1 penalty point on his super license for insufficiently reducing speed in the yellow flag zone at the end of qualifying when Max Verstappen's car spun.
Explaining his actions, Kimi stated that upon seeing the yellow flag and light panel, he reduced speed earlier than on the previous lap, which was confirmed by telemetry data. However, the reduction in speed occurred for a very short period, so overall the car's speed when passing the incident location was even higher than on the previous lap.
Typically, in such cases, a penalty of losing five places on the grid is applied, but the stewards took into account that the driver did reduce speed, albeit insufficiently. Additionally, the driver had little time to react to the situation, so a lesser penalty was imposed.
Explaining his actions, Kimi stated that upon seeing the yellow flag and light panel, he reduced speed earlier than on the previous lap, which was confirmed by telemetry data. However, the reduction in speed occurred for a very short period, so overall the car's speed when passing the incident location was even higher than on the previous lap.
Typically, in such cases, a penalty of losing five places on the grid is applied, but the stewards took into account that the driver did reduce speed, albeit insufficiently. Additionally, the driver had little time to react to the situation, so a lesser penalty was imposed.
Kimi Antonelli is facing a legal dispute with former manager Giovanni Minardi, who is demanding a multimillion compensation from the Mercedes driver for "unpaid rewards" following his debut in Formula 1. Negotiations between the parties have been ongoing for over a year, but now the case has gone to court. Giovanni Minardi, the son of the founder of the eponymous Formula 1 team Giancarlo Minardi, believes he should be compensated for his work during the early stages of Antonelli's career. Kimi Antonelli began collaborating with Minardi Management in 2014 when Minardi arranged tests for Kimi that were supposed to help him enter Ferrari's youth program. However, Maurizio Arrivabene, who was then managing the Ferrari team, rejected Antonelli, considering him too young. As a result, in 2018, Antonelli joined Mercedes' youth program and ended his collaboration with Minardi, with his interests being represented by Mercedes chief Toto Wolff. On the eve of the Hungarian Grand Prix, Minardi officially filed a civil lawsuit in the Bologna court, demanding payment of the debt and compensation for the early termination of the contract. The claims relate to the period before Antonelli's debut in Formula 1 in 2025. It is reported that the parties are still far from a settlement, and the amount of the claims is in the millions of euros. Mattia Grassani, Giovanni Minardi's lawyer, told the Adnkronos news agency the details of the story: "Giovanni Minardi has been struggling with what happened and turned to the court, as it was the only remaining option. So many years of work, sacrifices, and investments in the young driver deserved much greater recognition. Turning to the court became the only possible solution. This is a very complex case that has been under consideration for almost a year, and during this time there have been numerous hearings. The dispute involves Giovanni Minardi and Kimi Antonelli, as well as the driver's parents. It concerns a breach of the management services contract signed several years ago with the underage Kimi and his parents. When the driver moved to Mercedes, Antonelli's team decided that the conditions for continuing the collaboration were no longer being met. That is when the dispute arose. There were attempts to resolve the situation out of court; however, Giovanni Minardi found the proposed conditions unacceptable while expressing a willingness to continue negotiations. Unfortunately, a compromise could not be reached." As part of the proceedings, the court may call Toto Wolff as a witness, as well as the former head of Mercedes' youth program Gwen Lagrue, who recently took on a similar position at Red Bull.
Kimi Antonelli is facing a legal dispute with former manager Giovanni Minardi, who is demanding a multi-million compensation from the Mercedes driver for "unpaid rewards" following his debut in Formula 1. Negotiations between the parties have been ongoing for over a year, but now the matter has reached court. Giovanni Minardi, son of the founder of the eponymous Formula 1 team Giancarlo Minardi, believes he should be compensated for his work during the early stages of Antonelli's career. Kimi Antonelli began working with Minardi Management in 2014 when Minardi organized tests for Kimi that were supposed to help him enter Ferrari's youth program. However, Maurizio Arrivabene, who was then managing the Ferrari team, rejected Antonelli, considering him too young. As a result, in 2018, Antonelli joined Mercedes' youth program and ended his collaboration with Minardi, with his interests being represented by Mercedes chief Toto Wolff. On the eve of the Hungarian Grand Prix, Minardi officially filed a civil lawsuit in the Bologna court, demanding payment of the debt and compensation for the early termination of the contract. The claims relate to the period before Antonelli's debut in Formula 1 in 2025. It is reported that the parties are still far from a settlement, and the amount of claims is in the millions of euros. Mattia Grassani, Giovanni Minardi's lawyer, told the Adnkronos news agency the details of the story: "Giovanni Minardi has been struggling with what happened and turned to the court, as it was the only option left. So many years of work, sacrifices, and investments in the young driver deserved much more recognition. Turning to the court became the only possible solution. This is a very complex case that has been under consideration for almost a year, and during this time there have been numerous hearings. The dispute involves Giovanni Minardi and Kimi Antonelli, as well as the driver's parents. It concerns a breach of the terms of the management services contract signed several years ago with the minor Kimi and his parents. When the driver moved to Mercedes, Antonelli's team decided that the conditions for continuing cooperation were no longer being met. That is when the dispute arose. There were attempts to resolve the situation out of court; however, Giovanni Minardi found the proposed conditions unacceptable while expressing a willingness to continue negotiations. Unfortunately, a compromise could not be reached." As part of the proceedings, the court may call Toto Wolff as well as former head of Mercedes' youth program Gwen Lagrue, who recently took a similar position at Red Bull, as witnesses.
On Wednesday at the Hungarian track Hungaroring, the Aston Martin team is conducting a filming day, during which they are testing the new Honda power unit. The day before, Fernando Alonso, who is celebrating his 45th birthday today, mentioned that the team is doing everything possible to support Honda in their work on the power unit.
Fernando Alonso: "We are one team and we work together. We know our weaknesses and try to help each other.
At the beginning of the season, Honda was trying to compensate for some shortcomings of the car, and now we are doing our best to help Honda, including ensuring that energy delivery remains stable on every lap. Aston Martin is providing significant support to Honda in this area, especially the software department.
We still have a long way to go, we understand and realize that, but I hope we have already taken the first step. Both sides are gradually building trust in each other and confidence in their work. I think this will be crucial in the coming months."
Fernando Alonso: "We are one team and we work together. We know our weaknesses and try to help each other.
At the beginning of the season, Honda was trying to compensate for some shortcomings of the car, and now we are doing our best to help Honda, including ensuring that energy delivery remains stable on every lap. Aston Martin is providing significant support to Honda in this area, especially the software department.
We still have a long way to go, we understand and realize that, but I hope we have already taken the first step. Both sides are gradually building trust in each other and confidence in their work. I think this will be crucial in the coming months."
On Wednesday at the Hungarian track Hungaroring, the Aston Martin team is conducting a filming day, during which they are testing the new Honda power unit. The day before, Fernando Alonso, who is celebrating his 45th birthday today, mentioned that the team is doing everything possible to support Honda in its work on the power unit.
Fernando Alonso: "We are one team and we work together. We know our weaknesses and try to help each other.
At the beginning of the season, Honda was trying to compensate for some shortcomings of the car; now we are trying to help Honda as much as possible, including ensuring that energy delivery remains stable on every lap. Aston Martin is providing significant support to Honda in this regard, especially the software department.
We still have a long way to go; we understand and acknowledge that, but I hope we have already taken the first step. Both sides are gradually building trust in each other and confidence in their work. I think this will be crucial in the coming months."
Fernando Alonso: "We are one team and we work together. We know our weaknesses and try to help each other.
At the beginning of the season, Honda was trying to compensate for some shortcomings of the car; now we are trying to help Honda as much as possible, including ensuring that energy delivery remains stable on every lap. Aston Martin is providing significant support to Honda in this regard, especially the software department.
We still have a long way to go; we understand and acknowledge that, but I hope we have already taken the first step. Both sides are gradually building trust in each other and confidence in their work. I think this will be crucial in the coming months."
We cited the words of the president and CEO of Formula 1, Stefano Domenicali, regarding the fact that the championship management has several calendar options for the 2027 season in case the global situation does not allow for races to be held in the Middle East. Today, a draft calendar for the next season, which is considered the basic option, appeared in the press.
If everything goes according to plan, the season will include 24 Grands Prix, starting with the race on March 14 in Bahrain. Then, a week later, there should be a race in Jeddah, after which Formula 1 will head to Australia, Japan, China, Miami, and Canada.
The European part of the season will begin on the first weekend of June in Monaco. Then, a race is scheduled in Portugal at the Portimão circuit. Following that, races will take place in Silverstone, Spielberg, Belgium, and Hungary, after which Formula 1 will take an August break.
The season will resume on September 3-5 at the Italian Grand Prix, and a week later, the race in Madrid will conclude the European part of the season. Then, Formula 1 will head to Baku, where a series of races Azerbaijan-Turkey-Singapore will begin. After that, as in this season, races are planned in Austin, Mexico City, São Paulo, and Las Vegas. The season is expected to conclude in December with races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
Preliminary version of the Formula 1 calendar for the 2027 season
Date
Grand Prix
Venue
14/03
Bahrain
Sakhir
21/03
Saudi Arabia
Jeddah
04/04
Australia
Melbourne
11/04
Japan
Suzuka
18/04
China
Shanghai
02/05
Miami
Miami
23/05
Canada
Montréal
06/06
Monaco
Monaco
20/06
Portugal
Portimão
04/07
United Kingdom
Silverstone
11/07
Austria
Spielberg
25/07
Belgium
Spa
01/08
Hungary
Hungaroring
05/09
Italy
Monza
12/09
Spain
Madrid
26/09
Azerbaijan
Baku
03/10
Turkey
Istanbul
10/10
Singapore
Singapore
24/10
USA
Austin
31/10
Mexico
Mexico City
14/11
São Paulo
Interlagos
21/11
Las Vegas
Las Vegas
05/12
Qatar
Lusail
12/12
Abu Dhabi
Yas Marina
If everything goes according to plan, the season will include 24 Grands Prix, starting with the race on March 14 in Bahrain. Then, a week later, there should be a race in Jeddah, after which Formula 1 will head to Australia, Japan, China, Miami, and Canada.
The European part of the season will begin on the first weekend of June in Monaco. Then, a race is scheduled in Portugal at the Portimão circuit. Following that, races will take place in Silverstone, Spielberg, Belgium, and Hungary, after which Formula 1 will take an August break.
The season will resume on September 3-5 at the Italian Grand Prix, and a week later, the race in Madrid will conclude the European part of the season. Then, Formula 1 will head to Baku, where a series of races Azerbaijan-Turkey-Singapore will begin. After that, as in this season, races are planned in Austin, Mexico City, São Paulo, and Las Vegas. The season is expected to conclude in December with races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
Preliminary version of the Formula 1 calendar for the 2027 season
Date
Grand Prix
Venue
14/03
Bahrain
Sakhir
21/03
Saudi Arabia
Jeddah
04/04
Australia
Melbourne
11/04
Japan
Suzuka
18/04
China
Shanghai
02/05
Miami
Miami
23/05
Canada
Montréal
06/06
Monaco
Monaco
20/06
Portugal
Portimão
04/07
United Kingdom
Silverstone
11/07
Austria
Spielberg
25/07
Belgium
Spa
01/08
Hungary
Hungaroring
05/09
Italy
Monza
12/09
Spain
Madrid
26/09
Azerbaijan
Baku
03/10
Turkey
Istanbul
10/10
Singapore
Singapore
24/10
USA
Austin
31/10
Mexico
Mexico City
14/11
São Paulo
Interlagos
21/11
Las Vegas
Las Vegas
05/12
Qatar
Lusail
12/12
Abu Dhabi
Yas Marina
We cited the words of the president and CEO of Formula 1, Stefano Domenicali, regarding the fact that the championship management has several calendar options for the 2027 season in case the global situation does not allow for stages to be held in the Middle East. Today, a draft calendar for the next season was released in the press, which is considered the basic option.
If everything goes according to plan, the season will include 24 Grands Prix, starting with the race on March 14 in Bahrain. Then, a week later, there should be a stage in Jeddah, after which Formula 1 will head to Australia, Japan, China, Miami, and Canada.
The European part of the season will begin on the first weekend of June in Monaco. Then, a stage is planned in Portugal at the Portimão circuit. Following that, races will take place in Silverstone, Spielberg, Belgium, and Hungary, after which Formula 1 will take a break in August.
The season will resume from September 3-5 at the Italian Grand Prix, and a week later, the race in Madrid will conclude the European part of the season. Then, Formula 1 will head to Baku, where a series of stages Azerbaijan-Turkey-Singapore will begin. After that, as in this season, races are planned in Austin, Mexico City, São Paulo, and Las Vegas. The season is expected to conclude in December with stages in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
Preliminary version of the Formula 1 calendar for the 2027 season
Date
Grand Prix
Venue
14/03
Bahrain
Sakhir
21/03
Saudi Arabia
Jeddah
04/04
Australia
Melbourne
11/04
Japan
Suzuka
18/04
China
Shanghai
02/05
Miami
Miami
23/05
Canada
Montréal
06/06
Monaco
Monaco
20/06
Portugal
Portimão
04/07
United Kingdom
Silverstone
11/07
Austria
Spielberg
25/07
Belgium
Spa
01/08
Hungary
Hungaroring
05/09
Italy
Monza
12/09
Spain
Madrid
26/09
Azerbaijan
Baku
03/10
Turkey
Istanbul
10/10
Singapore
Singapore
24/10
USA
Austin
31/10
Mexico
Mexico City
14/11
São Paulo
Interlagos
21/11
Las Vegas
Las Vegas
05/12
Qatar
Lusail
12/12
Abu Dhabi
Yas Marina
If everything goes according to plan, the season will include 24 Grands Prix, starting with the race on March 14 in Bahrain. Then, a week later, there should be a stage in Jeddah, after which Formula 1 will head to Australia, Japan, China, Miami, and Canada.
The European part of the season will begin on the first weekend of June in Monaco. Then, a stage is planned in Portugal at the Portimão circuit. Following that, races will take place in Silverstone, Spielberg, Belgium, and Hungary, after which Formula 1 will take a break in August.
The season will resume from September 3-5 at the Italian Grand Prix, and a week later, the race in Madrid will conclude the European part of the season. Then, Formula 1 will head to Baku, where a series of stages Azerbaijan-Turkey-Singapore will begin. After that, as in this season, races are planned in Austin, Mexico City, São Paulo, and Las Vegas. The season is expected to conclude in December with stages in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
Preliminary version of the Formula 1 calendar for the 2027 season
Date
Grand Prix
Venue
14/03
Bahrain
Sakhir
21/03
Saudi Arabia
Jeddah
04/04
Australia
Melbourne
11/04
Japan
Suzuka
18/04
China
Shanghai
02/05
Miami
Miami
23/05
Canada
Montréal
06/06
Monaco
Monaco
20/06
Portugal
Portimão
04/07
United Kingdom
Silverstone
11/07
Austria
Spielberg
25/07
Belgium
Spa
01/08
Hungary
Hungaroring
05/09
Italy
Monza
12/09
Spain
Madrid
26/09
Azerbaijan
Baku
03/10
Turkey
Istanbul
10/10
Singapore
Singapore
24/10
USA
Austin
31/10
Mexico
Mexico City
14/11
São Paulo
Interlagos
21/11
Las Vegas
Las Vegas
05/12
Qatar
Lusail
12/12
Abu Dhabi
Yas Marina
This year, Malaysia will return to the Formula 1 calendar for the first time since 2017 – the Sepang circuit will host the sixteenth round of the season, officially called the "Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia," and is fully funded by the promoters of the Bahrain event.
The executive director of the racetrack, Azhan Shafrimaan Hanif, confirmed that this is a one-time return, and for Malaysia to host Formula 1 on a permanent basis, it needs to spend at least 73 million US dollars annually.
Azhan Shafrimaan Hanif: "In my estimates, at least 300 million ringgits (73 million US dollars) will be required each year. That’s how much it will cost. But we also need to consider the return from hosting the race.
According to the data I have seen, most host countries experience an economic impact that is at least three times greater than the investment. In other words, if we spend 300 million ringgits, the potential return for the country could reach 1 billion ringgits (244 million US dollars).
However, the government's current priority is not spending on international events, but helping the population amid economic difficulties and rising living costs. Perhaps in the future, when we have data from the results of the 2026 race, they will serve as a starting point for decision-making.
The second factor is the availability of free slots in the Formula 1 calendar. If there are none, then nothing will happen. Thus, there are two main conditions for a permanent return – funds to pay the promoter's fee and an available date in the calendar."
The executive director of the racetrack, Azhan Shafrimaan Hanif, confirmed that this is a one-time return, and for Malaysia to host Formula 1 on a permanent basis, it needs to spend at least 73 million US dollars annually.
Azhan Shafrimaan Hanif: "In my estimates, at least 300 million ringgits (73 million US dollars) will be required each year. That’s how much it will cost. But we also need to consider the return from hosting the race.
According to the data I have seen, most host countries experience an economic impact that is at least three times greater than the investment. In other words, if we spend 300 million ringgits, the potential return for the country could reach 1 billion ringgits (244 million US dollars).
However, the government's current priority is not spending on international events, but helping the population amid economic difficulties and rising living costs. Perhaps in the future, when we have data from the results of the 2026 race, they will serve as a starting point for decision-making.
The second factor is the availability of free slots in the Formula 1 calendar. If there are none, then nothing will happen. Thus, there are two main conditions for a permanent return – funds to pay the promoter's fee and an available date in the calendar."
In recent years, several leading specialists have left Red Bull Racing, including Adrian Newey, Rob Marshall, Jonny Whitely, and Christian Horner. By 2028, Gianpiero Lambiase, Max Verstappen's race engineer, will also leave the team. However, the four-time world champion himself urges not to dramatize the situation.
Max Verstappen: "Many have left the team over the past few years, but at the same time, new people are coming to us. Everyone just loves to focus on the negative. When someone leaves, it is immediately presented as something very dramatic.
But to be honest... Of course, sometimes you think, 'It's a pity that some have decided to leave,' but that's life. It happens in other sports too – people move to other teams, change jobs. It's part of the sports culture.
It's very difficult to keep a group together for a long time that achieves great success. There is always demand for such specialists; other teams also want to acquire talented people. The same happens in football – if a strong player emerges, another club will do everything to sign a contract with him. The same applies to managers. There's nothing unusual about that.
I feel that sometimes the situation around our team is overly dramatized, as if this only happens to us. But people are constantly coming and going; that's how sports work."
Max Verstappen: "Many have left the team over the past few years, but at the same time, new people are coming to us. Everyone just loves to focus on the negative. When someone leaves, it is immediately presented as something very dramatic.
But to be honest... Of course, sometimes you think, 'It's a pity that some have decided to leave,' but that's life. It happens in other sports too – people move to other teams, change jobs. It's part of the sports culture.
It's very difficult to keep a group together for a long time that achieves great success. There is always demand for such specialists; other teams also want to acquire talented people. The same happens in football – if a strong player emerges, another club will do everything to sign a contract with him. The same applies to managers. There's nothing unusual about that.
I feel that sometimes the situation around our team is overly dramatized, as if this only happens to us. But people are constantly coming and going; that's how sports work."
18th and 19th place for Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon in qualifying in Hungary – the worst result for Williams since the 2024 Dutch Grand Prix – the last race involving Logan Sargeant.
Carlos Sainz (18th): "It was a tough weekend. The balance changed from session to session, and there were issues with the rear of the car, making it behave unpredictably. But even if we had optimized everything, it’s unlikely we could have achieved a better starting position."
Alex Albon (19th): "On Saturday, the car behaved completely differently than the day before, and we still can't determine the cause of such discrepancies between the sessions. In the last few Grands Prix, we understood which parts weren't working properly, but we still don't know why.
Aston Martin made a big step forward this weekend, while Carlos and I faced issues. We will analyze the situation before tomorrow's race and see what we can do."
Carlos Sainz (18th): "It was a tough weekend. The balance changed from session to session, and there were issues with the rear of the car, making it behave unpredictably. But even if we had optimized everything, it’s unlikely we could have achieved a better starting position."
Alex Albon (19th): "On Saturday, the car behaved completely differently than the day before, and we still can't determine the cause of such discrepancies between the sessions. In the last few Grands Prix, we understood which parts weren't working properly, but we still don't know why.
Aston Martin made a big step forward this weekend, while Carlos and I faced issues. We will analyze the situation before tomorrow's race and see what we can do."
Ten years ago, in 2016, the battle between Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg for the title led to an open feud between the Mercedes drivers, which resulted in several on-track collisions – the most memorable occurred on the first lap of the Spanish Grand Prix. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff stated that he would not allow such a situation to happen again, but if something similar arises between George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, one of the drivers will be dismissed from the team.
Toto Wolff: “I will not allow a repeat of that situation. That will never happen with me again, and it will never happen with the team again. It’s simple – if any of the drivers starts behaving like that, I will just remove him from the team.
George was leading in Montreal but then retired. That could have been another victory for him, which would surely have given him more confidence going into the following races. Credit to George – there was an engine issue with his car, and it took us a long time to identify it. It cost him about two-tenths of a second.
Moreover, George, of course, felt increased pressure, as he was considered the clear favorite at the start of the season.
Last year, Kimi went nine races without scoring points, but this year he is performing very well. And suddenly expectations change, and you find yourself in a less favorable position. If anyone can handle that kind of pressure, it’s George, as he is a very resilient guy.
The best drivers know how to turn the situation around. So I am absolutely confident that he can do it.”
Toto Wolff: “I will not allow a repeat of that situation. That will never happen with me again, and it will never happen with the team again. It’s simple – if any of the drivers starts behaving like that, I will just remove him from the team.
George was leading in Montreal but then retired. That could have been another victory for him, which would surely have given him more confidence going into the following races. Credit to George – there was an engine issue with his car, and it took us a long time to identify it. It cost him about two-tenths of a second.
Moreover, George, of course, felt increased pressure, as he was considered the clear favorite at the start of the season.
Last year, Kimi went nine races without scoring points, but this year he is performing very well. And suddenly expectations change, and you find yourself in a less favorable position. If anyone can handle that kind of pressure, it’s George, as he is a very resilient guy.
The best drivers know how to turn the situation around. So I am absolutely confident that he can do it.”
Ten years ago, in 2016, the battle between Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg for the title led to an open feud between the Mercedes drivers, which resulted in several on-track collisions – the most memorable occurred on the first lap of the Spanish Grand Prix. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff stated that he would not allow such a situation to happen again, but if something similar arises between George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, one of the drivers will be dismissed from the team.
Toto Wolff: "I will not allow a repeat of that situation. It will never happen with me again, and it will never happen with the team again. It's simple – if any of the drivers starts to behave like that, I will just remove him from the team.
George was leading in Montreal but then retired. It could have been another victory for him, which would surely have given him more confidence heading into the following races. Credit to George – there was an engine issue with his car, and it took us a long time to identify it. It cost him about two-tenths of a second.
Moreover, George, of course, faced increased pressure, as he was considered the clear favorite at the start of the season.
Last year, Kimi went nine races without scoring points, but this year he is performing very well. And suddenly expectations change, and you find yourself in a less favorable position. If anyone can handle such pressure, it's George, as he is a very resilient guy.
The best drivers know how to turn the situation around. So I am absolutely confident that he will be able to do it."
Toto Wolff: "I will not allow a repeat of that situation. It will never happen with me again, and it will never happen with the team again. It's simple – if any of the drivers starts to behave like that, I will just remove him from the team.
George was leading in Montreal but then retired. It could have been another victory for him, which would surely have given him more confidence heading into the following races. Credit to George – there was an engine issue with his car, and it took us a long time to identify it. It cost him about two-tenths of a second.
Moreover, George, of course, faced increased pressure, as he was considered the clear favorite at the start of the season.
Last year, Kimi went nine races without scoring points, but this year he is performing very well. And suddenly expectations change, and you find yourself in a less favorable position. If anyone can handle such pressure, it's George, as he is a very resilient guy.
The best drivers know how to turn the situation around. So I am absolutely confident that he will be able to do it."
The Red Bull-Ford power unit may once again be recognized as the best following the second evaluation of the season under the ADUO program. During the race weekend in Monaco, five power unit suppliers – Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull-Ford, Audi, and Honda – received a one-page document from the FIA with a preliminary assessment of the performance of internal combustion engines for their subsequent refinement under the ADUO program. Manufacturers whose engines fall short of the benchmark are granted the right to additional investments and upgrades to close the gap.
At the beginning of summer, the FIA noted that Red Bull-Ford had the best engine, which was an unpleasant surprise for the Milton Keynes team, who expected to gain the right to refine their engine, as they believed their power unit was inferior to at least Mercedes. The problem for Red Bull Racing is that the ADUO only considers the characteristics of the internal combustion engine, while the apparent weak point of the Red Bull-Ford power unit is the battery.
After the Hungarian Grand Prix, the FIA began the second analysis of power units for the season under the ADUO. Teams are expected to receive results before the Dutch Grand Prix, and Red Bull Racing should be prepared for their power unit to once again be the best. According to GPBlog, after the previous ADUO assessment, Mercedes made changes to their power unit, but these were solely aimed at improving reliability. It is claimed that these refinements did not provide a power increase sufficient to surpass Red Bull-Ford's performance and give competitors a chance to refine their power units.
However, it cannot be ruled out that after numerous complaints and discussions with Red Bull, the FIA may use a different assessment methodology this time. In any case, the FIA plans to adjust the ADUO rules in the future to include battery characteristics in the evaluation, but Formula 1 teams have yet to reach a consensus on this issue.
At the beginning of summer, the FIA noted that Red Bull-Ford had the best engine, which was an unpleasant surprise for the Milton Keynes team, who expected to gain the right to refine their engine, as they believed their power unit was inferior to at least Mercedes. The problem for Red Bull Racing is that the ADUO only considers the characteristics of the internal combustion engine, while the apparent weak point of the Red Bull-Ford power unit is the battery.
After the Hungarian Grand Prix, the FIA began the second analysis of power units for the season under the ADUO. Teams are expected to receive results before the Dutch Grand Prix, and Red Bull Racing should be prepared for their power unit to once again be the best. According to GPBlog, after the previous ADUO assessment, Mercedes made changes to their power unit, but these were solely aimed at improving reliability. It is claimed that these refinements did not provide a power increase sufficient to surpass Red Bull-Ford's performance and give competitors a chance to refine their power units.
However, it cannot be ruled out that after numerous complaints and discussions with Red Bull, the FIA may use a different assessment methodology this time. In any case, the FIA plans to adjust the ADUO rules in the future to include battery characteristics in the evaluation, but Formula 1 teams have yet to reach a consensus on this issue.