Beyond the lap times
In-depth Formula 1 analysis: race strategy, tyre degradation, long-run pace and the data behind every result, explained clearly for fans of all levels.
Ferrari has lodged a formal inquiry into the Mercedes W17 after its two-phase closing mechanism allegedly provides a braking stability advantage. The investigation examines whether the design violates aerodynamic influence limits defined in the technical regulations.
Microsoft signed a $60 million per season deal with Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team starting in 2026 to integrate Azure and AI tools. This partnership arrives as teams navigate a $215 million annual cost cap and shifting power unit regulations.
Andrea Stella explains that McLaren's pit stop delays stem from hardware complexity rather than crew error. The team is targeting equipment fixes for 2026 to improve performance after a 3.88 second average stop time in recent races.
Mercedes-Benz will supply Williams Racing with power units from 2026 through 2030. This agreement arrives as the 2026 chassis cost cap rises to $215 million and the power unit development cap increases to $190 million.
The FIA has set the 2026 team cost cap at $215 million to account for inflation and new employee inclusion rules. This restructuring impacts Audi's operations in Hinwil, where regional wage differences can be 30 to 45 percent higher than in the United Kingdom.
Ferrari utilizes a smaller turbocharger with a compact turbine assembly to improve responsiveness and reduce turbo lag following the removal of the MGU-H. This design choice provides a mechanical advantage during race starts and low-speed cornering despite a trade-off in peak power.
Alpine is shifting to a Mercedes customer model due to a $130 million cost cap that makes works programs unviable. Bruno Famin highlights a massive deficit between development costs and the $17 million capped price for customer power units.
Degradation is thermal, mechanical and chemical. We explain how each one shows up in lap times.
Raw stint averages mislead. Correcting for fuel and tyre age shows who was really quickest.
Turbulent wake reduces downforce for the chasing car. Here is how much and why the rules tried to fix it.
Fresh tyres can gain time, but not always. We explain the conditions that make each move work.
Speed traps reveal setup choices. A low drag car may be quick on straights and slow in corners.