In their own words
Interviews with Formula 1 drivers, team principals, engineers and insiders: how they think, what they fear and what really happens behind the garage door.
Technical directors and FIA officials are reviewing 2026 regulations following Oliver Bearman's 50G impact at the Japanese Grand Prix. The discussions focus on safety modifications, including car dimensions, power unit electrification, and mandatory visibility equipment.
The FIA is managing technical sensor calibration to address neurological impairment caused by mechanical energy from the Honda RA626H power unit. New oscillation metrics using earpiece accelerometer data aim to prevent dangerous vertical movements and driver physical distress.
Niels Wittich has left his post as Formula 1 race director with immediate effect, prompting the FIA to appoint Rui Marques to the role starting at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. This leadership change follows a period of instability and high-profile departures within the governing body.
Kimi Antonelli leads the 2026 championship with 320 points after 16 entries, showcasing immense pace at the Sepang International Circuit. The Mercedes driver clocked a 1:36.302 in practice, placing him 0.278 seconds ahead of Max Verstappen.
Fernando Alonso utilizes decades of technical experience to manage power delivery and reliability challenges. His ability to extract pace from power-deficient cars, such as his 2014 Ferrari, remains a vital component of his tactical approach to qualifying.
Red Bull's RB22 carries a 62.8 lb weight excess above the 768kg minimum limit, causing a performance penalty of approximately 1.00 second per lap. This massive weight deficit creates handling instability and prevents the car from competing with the lighter Mercedes W17.
The FIA is implementing a new 2026 framework to increase the influence of Driver Stewards like Vitantonio Liuzzi and Derek Warwick. This shift aims to utilize racing experience to interpret guidelines more effectively when rules lack clarity.
Formula 1 teams utilize encrypted radio channels and complex frequency management to protect strategic data from rivals. Engineers must navigate significant signal interference at Monaco while adhering to FIA Article 20.1 regulations regarding driver coaching.
Ferrari utilizes a leading edge tower and three lateral vanes on the SF-26 to mitigate in-wash from floor boards. This aerodynamic setup manages boundary layer separation and protects underfloor efficiency to maintain downforce under 2026 regulations.
Bernie Ecclestone utilized intense financial pressure and political maneuvering to control Formula One. His strategic management of the Brabham team and negotiations with drivers like Niki Lauda laid the foundation for modern commercial rights and paddock authority.
Teams use custom wheel rim designs from suppliers like Enkei or OZ Racing to manipulate tire heat and pressure. Mario Isola notes that the historical pressure delta of two psi is no longer accurate, with most teams now estimating a delta of only one psi for the 2026 season.
Lando Norris secured a dominant victory in Singapore, leading every lap to finish 20.9 seconds ahead of Max Verstappen. While Norris maintains a strong qualifying advantage over Oscar Piastri, Charles Leclerc seeks technical upgrades to resolve his recent qualifying difficulties.