Breaking from the paddock
The latest Formula 1 news as it breaks: team announcements, driver updates, FIA decisions and everything moving in the paddock, updated daily.
Toto Wolff is vetting multiple candidates to manage Mercedes F1 responsibilities as his three-year contract extension expires at the end of 2026. The 28.33 per cent owner aims to build a management structure that ensures the team survives his eventual departure.
Retired U.S. Navy Captain Reid Wiseman, who commanded the Artemis II lunar mission, has been appointed as an official Mercedes F1 ambassador. He will work with team stakeholders to share perspectives on high-performance culture, teamwork, and technical excellence.
Max Verstappen expressed his desire for Isack Hadjar to eventually take over his role at Red Bull. The four-time world champion noted that finding new talent is essential for the team, especially as Hadjar continues to develop within the Red Bull program.
Red Bull technical director Pierre Waché reveals that the 2027 RB23 will feature a new chassis and gearbox to address current car limitations. The team aims to maximize performance through new aerodynamic and mechanical parts while managing the budget cap constraints.
The FIA World Motor Sport Council has introduced new 2027 regulations requiring physical and IT segregation for teams like Red Bull and Mercedes. These rules target non-F1 divisions to prevent personnel and information from being used to circumvent spending limits.
Christian Horner reveals in his memoir Drive that Niki Lauda attempted to poach him from Red Bull with a Mercedes team principal offer in 2012. Horner rejected the proposal due to his loyalty to Dietrich Mateschitz despite the lucrative salary figures presented by Lauda.
Formula 1 will reduce race distances to 290km for the 2027 season to help teams manage component redesigns under new fuel flow limits. The FIA confirmed that standard grand prix distances will return to exceeding 305km in 2028, though Monaco will maintain its 260km length.
Christian Horner disclosed that Lewis Hamilton held a secret meeting with Adrian Newey regarding a potential move to Red Bull before joining Mercedes. Separately, Alisha Palmowski will debut a Mobil-inspired livery for her Red Bull Academy car at the United States Grand Prix.
Formula 1 will revert to the 305 kilometre race distance in 2028 following a temporary reduction to 290 kilometres in 2027. This change follows shifts in power unit ratios that increase combustion engine reliance and fuel consumption requirements for teams.
Sentronics Holdings filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Allengra GmbH in Texas, alleging the unauthorized use of ultrasonic fuel flow meter technology. The dispute involves FIA championship components and seeks damages for lost profits and royalties dating back to 2022.
Fernando Alonso reported significant drivability and turbo lag issues with his Honda power unit during the Singapore Grand Prix. The Aston Martin driver lost 200 to 300 metres on every straight due to poor energy deployment, preventing him from overtaking Sergio Perez.
George Russell admitted to facing significant psychological pressure during his 2025 Singapore Grand Prix win. The Mercedes driver credited partner Carmen Montero Mundt for her support during off-track difficulties as he trails Kimi Antonelli by 102 points in the 2026 championship.
McLaren has confirmed Leonardo Fornaroli as its 2027 Formula 1 reserve and third driver. The Italian driver will also join the team's World Endurance Championship programme to develop the new McLaren Hypercar and compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.