Jordan's Track Talk

Category: 2026

  • Who could Cadillac pick for 2026?

    With having Cadillac joining the grid next year, there are two new spots which need to be filled but who is going to fill them?

    As you’d expect the American squad have been inundated with calls from drivers and managers enquiring about a job and that led to the team compiling a long-list that ran to 15 names at one point.

    That list, has slimmed down to just a handful, and while the team aren’t in a rush to confirm their line-up, they are starting to zero in on what they want, so whose in the running?

    Valtteri Bottas

    Bottas is a driver who could bring a wealth of experience to the Graeme Lowdon-led team from 2026 onwards.
    The Finnish driver made his F1 debut in 2013 with Williams after serving as the test and reserve driver for the Grove outfit since 2010.

    He moved to Mercedes in 2017 for a successful five-year stint with the Brackley squad, driving alongside seven-time champion, Lewis Hamilton.
    2021 saw Bottas join Alfa Romeo / Sauber where he stayed for three seasons.

    He currently serves as Mercedes reserve driver, with Team Principal Toto Wolff sharing his support for Bottas to return to a full-time racing seat.

    Sergio Perez

    The Mexican driver was replaced at Red Bull at the end of 2024 by Liam Lawson, who stepped into the RB21 seat alongside Max Verstappen for 2025 but was replaced by Yuki Tsunoda after two race weekends.

    In addition to his four-year stint with Milton Keynes team, Perez has previously driven for Sauber, McLaren and Force India after making his debut in 2011.

    The 35 year old has been keen to return to the championship after his Red Bull exit, albeit only “for the right project”. Over his 14 year career in F1, he collected six grand prix wins, three pole positions, 39 podium finishes and 12 fastest laps.

    Mich Schumacher

    Schumacher has also been linked to the Cadillac team. The German driver previously drove for Haas in 2021 and 2022 before moving to Mercedes to serve as the reserve driver in 2023 and 2024.
    He now races in the World Endurance Championship with Alpine.

    Alex Dunne

    Most recently, Dunne has been linked to one of the Cadillac seats too. With the McLaren junior taking part in FP1 back in Austria where he ended up fourth fastest and within a tenth of Piastri.

    He is quickly becoming one of the brightest talents outside of F1 currently, and with both Piastri and Norris locked in for long-term contracts, McLaren must be looking else where for the junior.

    The Irish driver is currently competing in Formula 2 where he is 5th in the championship with 4 rounds left and 30 points between him and the championship leader…
    Dunne has also took part in Formula E as he has been McLaren’s reserve driver since January 2025 and taking part in the rookie practice at the Jeddah E-Prix and then the Berlin Rookie Test in July.

    Jak Crawford

    If Cadillac want to sign an American driver, it would be 20 year old Jak Crawford, who is enjoying his best Formula 2 campaign where he currently sits second in the championship!

    Hopefully it won’t be too long until we have at least one driver announced for the new team.

  • F1 confirms 2026 pre-season testing

    Formula 1 and the FIA have announced the dates for 2026 pre-season testing, with three tests set to take place prior to the campaign getting underway.

    Test one will be a private test and will take place at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya between January 26th – 30th, while test two will be held at the Bahrain International Circuit between February 11th – 13th.

    The Bahrain International Circuit also hosts test three from February 18th – 20th, before the season begins in Australia on March 6th – 8th.

    It has also been confirmed in a calendar update that, following a request from the Azerbaijan promoter and relevant government stakeholders, Formula 1 and the FIA have agreed to move the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix from Sunday September 27th to Saturday 26th to accommodate a national day.

  • Formula E unveil 2025/26 Calendar

    Formula E and the FIA have announced the first provisional calendar for the 2025-26 season of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship following validation from the FIA’s World Motorsport Council Meeting.

    Featuring its most expensive season yet with 18 races across 12 global cities, highlights include new races in Madrid and Miami’s International Autodrome for the first time.

    The all-electric series’ record-breaking 12th season begins on 6th December 2025 on the vibrant streets of Sao Paulo, before the championship returns to Mexico City in January.

    Formula E then makes its first race appearance at the Miami International Autodrome on 31st January. February sees a nighttime double-header under the lights in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
    While Madrid debuts on the calendar in March at the historic Circuito de Madrid-Jarama – the first time Formula E has race in the Spanish capital.

    Returning venues including Berlin, Tokyo and Shanghai, each hosting double header race weekends, while Monaco continues its role as the jewel in the crown of motorsport, hosting back to back races on the iconic street circuit, only the second time it has hosted World Championship races on consecutive days after it debuted earlier in May this year.

    The season concludes once more in London, with a climatic double-header at the Excel on 15th – 16th August 2026 that will round out the end of the GEN3 Evo era.

    Two further locations to complete the calendar are awaiting public confirmation, as end-stage negotiations are ongoing with local authorities ahead of forthcoming World Motorsport Council Meetings later in the year, when the final calendar will be revealed and ratified.

    This calendar is our most competitive yet, blending exciting new and existing venues with legendary circuits that define Formula E. With greater attention on calendar stability, we’re becoming easier to find, engage with and attend, unlocking greater fan loyalty and love. Our debut in Madrid and increase in total races demonstrates our mission and intent to continually grow the series in key markets, while racing at Miami’s International Autodrome takes our US presence to another level at a world-class facility. As we continue to see year-on-year growth of our global fanbase and TV audiences, this calendar is certain to deliver even more exciting racing from our top tier drivers and teams for our fans to get behind.
    Jeff Dodds, CEO Formula E.

    We’re incredibly proud of the global footprint we’ve built for our 12th season, covering 2025-26. With at least two fantastic new circuits joining the impressive roster, including what will be a home race for myself in Madrid that has long been a goal of mine, we’re enhancing the diversity of what fans can expect while staying true to our DNA with a blend of city street and built circuit venues. It is what makes our racing so exciting and compelling to watch. We’ve carefully curated each leg to minimise our freight, improve sustainability and give fans across the world even more opportunity to tune in and watch no matter the time zone, thanks to our fantastic roster of broadcast partners.
    Alberto Longo, Co-Founder & Chief Championship Officer of Formula E.

    The Season 12 calendar provides a world-class platform to showcase Formula E at its very best whilst offering a balanced presence in different regions, especially in those where the EV industry is developing. With an excellent mix of new circuit venues and returning street racing classics, fans can expect an action-packed season that reflects Formula E’s continued growth and innovation in electric motorsport. The variety of track layouts will also ensure diversified race scenarios with the GEN3 Evo race car.
    Marek Nawarecki, Director, FIA Circuit Sport Department.

  • Formula 3 2026 Season Calendar revealed

    FIA Formula 3 and the FIA have announced the calendar for the 2026 FIA Formula 3 Championship, which will a gain comprise of a total of ten rounds, all support events of the FIA Formula 2 Championship and the FIA Formula One World Championship.

    The campaign, approved by the FIA World Motorsport Council, will open overseas in Melbourne Australia early in March before flying to the Bahrain International Circuit mid-April.

    The F3 field will then head back to Europe for its third round in the prestigious streets of Monte Carlo, in early June. That same month, there will be two more race weekends, the first in Barcelona-Catalunya and two weeks later at Spielberg, Austria.

    July will open at Silverstone, UK, which will be followed by Spa-Francorchamps and Budapest.

    The eighth season of F3 will conclude with back-to-back rounds after the summer break. Monza will see the return to action in early September, and a new venue Madrid will host the conclusion of the 2026 season.

    We have seen great racing in Formula 3 this season, and there will be a huge amount of excitement for the 2026 season. There’s been some great new talent coming up through the pipeline, assisted by so many F2 drivers moving to Formula 1 this year, and they are fighting it out on the track. The opportunity to race alongside the highest levels of motorsport challenges not only the drivers’ technical aptitude, but also their mental and physical resilience, which is so critical for our sport. The work of Bruno Michel and all the teams is impressive and I want to congratulate them all on their continued success. Of course, the races wouldn’t happen without the support of the FIA, stewards, volunteers, the promoters and our partners, Pirelli and Aramco. Next season is going to be a huge one for the sport, and F3 will be playing an important part in that, both on and off the track.
    Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1.

    The FIA Formula 3 Championship continues to play a fundamental role in shaping the future of our sport, providing young drivers with a world-class environment to grow and compete on some of motorsport’s most iconic circuits. The 2026 calendar offers a strong blend of tradition and innovation – from the streets of Monte-Carlo to the exciting addition of Madrid as the season finale. With ten rounds supporting both Formula 2 and Formula 1, the Championship remains a key pillar of our single-seater pathway and a showcase of global talent.
    FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

    The FIA Formula 3 Championship is the perfect training ground for the drivers on their road to Formula 1, with almost half of the 2025 FIA Formula 2 grid made of F3 graduates from the previous season. The 2026 Formula 3 calendar will be made of ten rounds and twenty races, which is a good number to balance Formula 1 tracks and costs. In 2025, we have introduced a new F3 car that’s provided great racing on circuits that will be back on the 2026 calendar. We will go to Madrid for the first time, and I am looking forward to seeing our thirty cars race at this new venue.
    FIA Formula 3 CEO, Bruno Michel.

  • Formula 2 2026 season Calendar revealed

    FIA Formula 2 and the FIA have announced their calendar for the 2026 FIA Formula 2 Championship and once again, the season will comprise of a total of 14 rounds, all of which are the support events of the FIA Formula One World Championship.

    The 11 teams and 22 drivers will contest a total of 28 races across 13 countries, with a new venue added to the calendar as Formula 2 goes to Madrid for the very first time.

    The tenth season of Formula 2 will open in Melbourne, Australia in early March, before heading to the Bahrain International Circuit at Sakhir in April, back to back with Jeddah in Saudi Arabia.

    The 2026 campaign, approved by the FIA World Motorsport Council, will pick up in Europe with a busy month of June, starting with Monte-Carlo, Monaco the first week, followed by Barcelona-Catalunya, Spain a week later. Spielberg, Austria will conclude that month and the action will carry on the following week in Silverstone, Great Britain on the first week of July.

    The paddock will then travel to Spa-Francorchamps two weeks later and before the summer break, Round 9 will take place in Budapest, Hungary.
    The action will return at Monza, Italy early September, before Madrid concludes the European season in September the week after.

    Baku, Azerbaijan will be next on September 25th-27th. After a break, Round 13 will take place in Lusail, Qatar on November 27th – 29th, while the season will end at the Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi on December 4th – 6th.

    Once again, we can look forward to some fantastic F2 racing in 2026, when the series returns to 14 Grands Prix. We welcomed four F2 drivers up to Formula 1 this year, which has demonstrated how critical the pyramid system is to the sport and its ongoing success. 2026 is going to be a great season, with exciting action, as the drivers take on the ultimate circuits, all of which have different challenges to test their skills and their abilities. I’m grateful to Bruno Michel and all the teams who make the series possible and the FIA, promoters, stewards and volunteers, and our partners Aramco and Pirelli who enable the races to take place. We’re all ready for a brilliant season ahead!
    Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1.

    The FIA Formula 2 Championship continues to prove itself as a vital platform for developing the next generation of top drivers, and the 2026 calendar reflects our commitment to delivering a competitive and globally diverse series. With 14 rounds across three continents, including the exciting debut of Madrid as a new venue, Formula 2 remains closely aligned with Formula 1 while carving its own identity. As we mark the tenth season of the Championship, I look forward to another year of outstanding competition and progression in one of the most important steps on the single-seater ladder.
    FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

    I’m very pleased to announce our calendar for the 2026 season. F2 is the ultimate preparation for Formula 1 as proven by the strong performance of the drivers who have joined the F1 grid in 2025. Racing on Formula 1 tracks and in front of the F1 paddock is absolutely key. Next season, we remain with 14 rounds in total, all support events of F1. As announced previously, we are adding a new venue with Madrid, which should be an exciting new track for our drivers and teams. As always, we have designed this calendar with the costs in mind to ensure that the teams’ budget remain at a healthy level.
    FIA Formula 2 CEO, Bruno Michel.

  • F1 reveals calendar for 2026

    Formula 1 and the FIA have announced the calendar for the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship, with drivers and teams set to embark on another 24-round campaign as new technical regulations and 100% advanced sustainable fuels come into play.

    Starting with the Australian Grand Prix on the weekend of March 6th – 8th and concluding with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix from December 4th – 6th, the F1 community will visit five of the world’s seven continents over the course of the year.

    In 2026, Ramadan will take place throughout February and March, meaning the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will again be held in April.

    The calendar sees further improvements to the geographical flow of races, including the Canadian Grand Prix now following Miami in an earlier slot from May 22nd to 24th, delivering significant freight efficiencies as some equipment can move directly from one event to the other.

    This change creates a consolidated European leg of the season across the summer months, beginning in Monaco from June 5th – 7th and finishing in Spain, where Madrid will make its F1 calendar debut from September 11th – 13th.

    The championship then returns to Asia with the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grand Prix ahead of a triple header in the Americas, before Las Vegas, Qatar and Abu Dhabi close out the season.

    2026 will be a new era for Formula 1 where we will witness a brand-new set of regulations for our sport, the cars and the engines that will be powered by 100% sustainable fuel. We are excited to welcome Madrid to the calendar, and to see huge automotive brands like Audi, Cadillac and Ford join the Formula 1 grid. It promises to be an unforgettable season, where once again we will come together at 24 amazing global venues to watch the best drivers in the world push themselves to the limit and produce incredible wheel to wheel racing for our millions of fans watching around the globe. I want to thank all our fans for their passionate support and the FIA, with all the volunteers, marshals and officials, as well as the promoters, partners, sponsors, host cities and the local motor racing federations for their commitment and support in delivering this schedule in what I know will be another historic year for Formula 1.
    Stefano Domenicali on the 2026 Calendar.

    Next year’s FIA Formula One World Championship marks a significant new chapter for our sport. A new race, new teams, and the arrival of new manufacturers, all ushering in a fresh era of innovation and competition. With 24 Grands Prix across five continents, the season truly reflects the global nature of our community, while the improved geographical flow of the calendar shows our joint commitment to making the championship more efficient and sustainable. The debut of Madrid, the arrival of iconic brands like Audi, Cadillac, and Ford, and the introduction of the next generation of F1 cars powered by 100% advanced sustainable fuels signal an exciting new era of racing. My thanks to everyone involved in putting on this incredible season and in delivering a calendar that continues to drive the sport forward on all fronts. And, my thanks to the fans whose passion and unwavering support keep the spirit of our sport alive.
    Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA added.

  • Cadillac approved to join F1 grid in 2026

    It has been confirmed that the Cadillac Formula 1 Team have received final approval to join the sport, with the team – who are backed by TWG Motorsports and General Motors (GM) – set to be part of the F1 grid in 2026.

    The announcement comes after appointments were confirmed across recent months, including former Marussia Sporting Director Graeme Lowdon joining as Team principal and industry veteran Russ O’Blenes becoming CEO of TWG GM Performance Power Units, which will contribute towards Cadillac becoming a “full works” team by the end of the decade.

    The Cadillac outfit – which has bases in Fishers, Indiana; Charlotte, North Carolina; Warren, Michigan; and Silverstone, England – have assembled a team of over 200 people working on aerodynamics, chassis and component development, software and vehicle dynamics simulation since the team’s bid to enter Formula 1 was announced, with development work continuing at pace ahead of joining the grid in 2026.

    As we said in November, the commitment by General Motors to bring a Cadillac team to Formula 1 was an important and positive demonstration of the evolution of our sport. I want to thank GM and TWG Motorsports for their constructive engagement over many months and look forward to welcoming the team on the grid from 2026 for what will be another exciting year for Formula 1.
    Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1.

    Today marks a transformative moment, and I am proud to lead the Federation in this progressive step for the championship. The FIA Formula One Championship’s expansion to an 11th team in 2026 is a milestone. GM/Cadillac brings fresh energy, aligning with the new FIA 2026 regulations and ushering in an exciting era for the sport.The Cadillac Formula 1 Team’s presence in the paddock will inspire future competitors and fans. Their entry strengthens our mission to push motorsport’s boundaries at the highest level.
    FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

    For the past year, we have worked hand in hand with GM, to lay a robust foundation for an extraordinary Formula 1 entry. Now, with 2026 in our sights after today’s final approval from the FIA and Formula One Management, we’re accelerating our efforts—expanding our facilities, refining cutting-edge technologies, and continuing to assemble top-tier talent.
    Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsport.

    I couldn’t be prouder of the effort put in thus far by the entire Cadillac Formula 1 team. This announcement is the next step in getting on the grid and continued work toward building a full-works team. Through the long and thorough application process, we never lost pace in planning or belief in our mission. We can’t wait to go racing and give fans a new team to cheer for.
    Lowdon on the news.

  • Madrid to host F2 & F3 races from 2026

    The Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix, set to take place in Madrid from 2026 to 2035, will also feature the FIA Formula 2 and FIA Formula 3 Championships.

    The ten year agreement brings the lower-tier F1 categories to Madrid, enriching the fan experience with not only the thrill of top-tier racing but also the opportunity to witness the merging talents on the road to Formula 1.

    This agreement was signed by FIA F2 and FIA F3 CEO Bruno Michel, Jose Vicente de los Mozos, President of the Executive Committee of IFEMA Madrid, Daniel Martinez, Executive Vice-President of IFEMA Madrid and Luis Garcia Abad, General Director of IFEMA Madrid.

    Having both Formula 2 and Formula 3 racing on the same weekend as Formula 1 underscores the commitment of the Spanish GP organisers to deliver a sporting and entertainment experience for fans.

    I am extremely happy to bring F2 and F3 to Madrid, at this exciting new venue. It’s important that the young drivers in both our championships get to race on as many F1 tracks as possible. With the addition of Madrid to the Formula 1 calendar, it was logical that F2 and F3 would follow suit. I am really looking forward to our cars providing the spectators with some thrilling racing.
    Bruno Michel on the news.

    At IFEMA Madrid, we are very proud to bring F2 and F3 to our Grand Prix alongside F1, as our goal is to make the F1 Spanish Grand Prix 2026-2035 the best event possible. The FIA F2 and FIA F3 categories are fundamental for the future of the sport, as they produce the future stars of F1. This makes the Spanish Grand Prix 2026-2035 an even more unmissable event, offering fans a complete experience full of talent, spectacle, and excitement, with a unique motorsport offering.
    Jose Vicente de los Mozos adds.

  • Ferrari to supply GM with power units

    Ferrari have announced that they have entered into an agreement with the General Motors/Cadillac F1 project to supply the team with power units and gearboxes starting in 2026, the year in which the manufacturer could potentially join the grid.

    It was confirmed in November that Formula 1 had reached an agreement in principle to support bringing GM/Cadillac as the 11th team in the field in 2026, while news followed in early December that former Marussia Sporting Director Graeme Lowdon had been appointed Team Principal.

    Now Ferrari have confirmed a technical collaboration agreement with GM/Cadillac, subject to the team receiving confirmation from the FIA and F1 that their entry to the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship has been accepted and approved.

    It’s great to see the commitment of another American team, backed by one of the most highly respected marques in the motor industry, at a time when Formula 1 is increasing in popularity in the United States. We are delighted therefore that we will be supplying the team with our power unit and gearbox as the basis of this technical collaboration. It means we will continue to have two ‘customer teams’ in the championship with all the benefits this brings in terms of technical development within Ferrari.
    Fred Vasseur, Team Principal at Ferrari.

    We are thrilled to partner with Ferrari as the power unit and gearbox supplier for our Cadillac team, bringing together two remarkable legacies. Choosing the right power unit partner is crucial, and we trust in Ferrari’s passion, excellence and the exceptional capabilities of their people.
    Graeme Lowdon on the news.

  • Graeme Lowdon announced as GM F1 Project Team Principal

    Former Marussia Sporting Director Graeme Lowdon has been announced as the Team Principal of General Motors’ F1 project, ahead of the manufacturer potentially joining the grid in 2026.

    On November 25th, it was announced that Formula 1 had reached an agreement in principle to support General Motors/Cadillac joining the grid as an 11th team in 2026.

    Now it’s been announced that Lowdon will oversee the project, with the Brit having last seen active on the pit wall with Manor Marussia in 2015 in his role as the team’s Sporting Director.

    Lowdon has most recently played a part in the management of China’s first ever full-time F1 racer Zhou Guanyu, who has departed Kick Sauber this year, alongside his work as an executive advisor for the General Motors project.

    I’m truly honored to be appointed as the Team Principal of this exciting new team and I would like to thank everyone involved for placing their trust in me. I believe that Formula 1 is the greatest team sport in the world, and teams are all about people. This is a team with a real love for, and desire to go, racing, and we have the experience and expertise to do just that. Racing is at the very heart of everything that we do. This is what I want to see in a team, and I really want to be part of it. I don’t underestimate the task ahead and I have the utmost respect for the competition. I look forward to the challenge of racing. In the meantime, our work continues at pace.
    Lowdon on the news.

    Graeme has been a pleasure to work with over the past two years and we’re excited he will lead our journey to the 2026 Formula 1 grid as Team Principal. He has great racing expertise, he knows how to assemble a high-performing team, and he embodies the values the Cadillac Formula 1 Team will represent in all its endeavors, on or off the track.
    General Motors President, Mark Reuss.

    Graeme has been advising our team for the last two years as we have built out our operations; his experience on both the technical and managerial sides of Formula 1 and other motorsports ventures will serve him well as he builds the Cadillac Formula 1 team.
    Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Global’s Motorsport business.

  • Dutch Grand Prix extended until 2026

    Formula 1 and the Dutch Grand Prix promoter have announced a one-year contract extension which will see Circuit Zandvoort remain on the Formula 1 calendar through the 2026 season.

    After much consideration and discussion, the decision has been taken by the promoter not to remain on the calendar after 2026.

    The past few years have seen some great action in the Dutch Grand Prix after the sport’s long break from racing in the Netherlands.

    The event has become known for its fans experience, with Dutch fans and International visitors alike gathering to watch Formula 1, Formula 2, Formula 3, F1 Academy and more, battling around the iconic banked corners of the circuit.

    It has also established itself as a leading sustainable sporting event, pioneering technologies that are now used across the Formula 1 calendar.

    The return of the Dutch Grand Prix in 2021, coincided with a period of dominance for local hero Max Verstappen, who has won the race three times.

    I am incredibly grateful for the work that the team at the Dutch Grand Prix have done in recent years. They raised the bar for European Grands Prix in terms of event spectacle and entertainment, supported the development of young talent by hosting F2, F3 and our F1 ACADEMY series, and have also pioneered sustainable solutions that have inspired our events around the world as we drive towards being Net Zero by 2030. All parties positively collaborated to find a solution to extend the race, with many options, including alternation or annual events on the table, and we respect the decision from the promoter to finish its amazing run in 2026. I want to thank all the team at the Dutch Grand Prix and the Municipality of Zandvoort who have been fantastic partners to Formula 1.
    Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1.

    The Dutch Grand Prix is the result of a unique collaboration between SportVibes, TIG Sports, and Circuit Zandvoort, who shared the ambition of bringing the race back to the Netherlands. What we have achieved so far is undoubtedly a huge success. The appreciation from our visitors, drivers, and teams has been unprecedented, and we are incredibly proud of that. While today’s announcement signals the end of a monumental era, we are confident there is plenty more for fans to look forward to at the Dutch Grand Prix in 2025 and 2026, including the Sprint in 2026. We are a privately owned and operated business, and we must balance the opportunities presented by continuing to host the event, against other risks and responsibilities. We have decided to go out on a high with two more incredible Dutch Grands Prix in 2025 and 2026. We wanted to take this step, while our event is adored and supported by passionate fans, residents, and the Formula 1 community. I want to thank Stefano Domenicali and all the team at Formula 1 for the hard work that has seen multiple contract extensions realised and the Dutch Grand Prix be such a success.
    Robert van Overdijk, Director of the Dutch Grand Prix.

  • General Motors & F1 confirm 11th team for 2026

    Formula 1 has announced that it has reached an agreement in principle with General Motors (GM) to support bringing GM/Cadillac as the 11th team to the Formula 1 grid in 2026.

    Formula 1 has maintained a dialogue with General Motors, and its partners at TWG Global, regarding the viability of an entry following the commercial assessment and decision made by Formula 1 in January 2025,

    Over the course of this year, they have achieved operational milestones and made clear their commitment to brand the eleventh team GM/Cadillac, and that GM will enter as an engine supplier at a later time.
    Formula 1 is therefore pleased to move forward with this application process and will then provide further updates.

    With Formula 1’s continued growth plans in the US, we have always believed that welcoming an impressive US brand like GM/Cadillac to the grid and GM as a future power unit supplier could bring additional value and interest to the sport. We credit the leadership of General Motors and their partners with significant progress in their readiness to enter Formula 1. We are excited to move forward with the application process for the GM/Cadillac team to enter the Championship in 2026.
    Greg Maffei, President and CEO of Liberty Media.

    General Motors is a huge global brand and powerhouse in the OEM world and is working with impressive partners. I am fully supportive of the efforts made by the FIA, Formula 1, GM and the team to maintain dialogue and work towards this outcome of an agreement in principle to progress this application to bring a GM/Cadillac branded team on the grid for the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship. All parties, including the FIA, will continue to work together to ensure the process progresses smoothly.
    Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA.

    As the pinnacle of motorsports, F1 demands boundary-pushing innovation and excellence. It’s an honor for General Motors and Cadillac to join the world’s premier racing series, and we’re committed to competing with passion and integrity to elevate the sport for race fans around the world. This is a global stage for us to demonstrate GM’s engineering expertise and technology leadership at an entirely new level.
    Mark Reuss, President of General Motors.

  • Canadian GP to support calendar from 2026

    Canadian Grand Prix organisers are supporting Formula 1’s efforts to rationalise the race calendar and make it more sustainable by agreeing to host future editions of the event earlier than has been in recent years.

    The race promoter, Octane Racing Group, along with key stakeholders from the Canadian Government, Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, the City of Montreal, Tourism Quebec, Tourism Montreal and Parc Jean-Drapeau, were all involved in the process.

    With renewed commitment and collaboration from the 2026 season, the Grand Prix is set to be scheduled on the third or fourth weekend of May each year, with all future Formula 1 calendars subject to confirmation by the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council.

    The move will allow the European leg of the F1 season to be consolidated into one consecutive period over Europe’s summer months and is planned to remove an additional transatlantic crossing by the F1 community each year.

    The announcement builds upon the changes already made to the calendar by F1 in recent years to create a more rationalised schedule.

    The Japanese Grand Prix is one which has moved to the spring to align with races in the Asia Pacific region, Azerbaijan has moved to the autumn as the championship turns east to Singapore and Qatar has moved to be closely aligned with Abu Dhabi at the end of the season.

    I am incredibly grateful to the promoter and all of the government stakeholder partners involved in the Canadian Grand Prix, from the local, to the provincial and national government. We applaud the tremendous effort from all involved to accelerate the temporary build of the event, to be ready to host the Formula 1 community earlier than in the past. The change will make the future flow of our calendar not only more sustainable, but logistically more sensible for our teams and personnel. We applaud the tremendous effort from all involved to accelerate the temporary build of the event, to be ready to host the Formula 1 community earlier than in the past. Our Net Zero by 2030 commitment continues to be a priority for us as a sport and it is thanks to changes like this that we are on track to hitting our goal.
    Stefano Domenicali, President & CEO of Formula 1.

    This change in the schedule is a major step in our commitment, as well as Formula 1’s, toward a more sustainable future. It demonstrates our desire to combine sporting performance and event organization with environmental responsibility. We are determined to offer our fans, our communities, and our loyal audience a unique and enriched experience, in addition to extending the summer season for Montreal. The date change thus fully integrates into the dynamic strategic vision put in place by our team, with the collaboration of our stakeholders, which is fully focused on delivering an amazing Canadian Grand Prix experience in a more sustainable and inclusive environment.
    Jean-Philippe Paradis, CEO of Octane Racing Group.

  • Alpine to use Mercedes power unit from 2026

    Alpine have secured a deal with Mercedes to run the German manufacturer’s power unit from 2026 until at least the end of 2030.

    The deal also involves taking a supply of their gearbox from the start of 2026 – though sources say Alpine are planning on producing their own gearbox in-house at Enstone from 2027.

    Last month, Alpine confirmed they will shut down their works engine programme at the end of next season as part of their ‘Hypertech’ transformation project.

    The team had already been in talks with other manufacturers about a customer engine supply, with Mercedes emerging as the team to strike a deal first.

    Alpine will continue to manufacturer their own power units through the 2025 campaign before switching in 2026, when new power unit rules come in to play – that feature a greater focus on the battery and use of 100% sustainable fuels.

    Alpine secured their biggest points haul of the season with a remarkable double podium finish last time out in Brazil. Which catapulted them up three places to sixth in the constructors’ championship with three Grands Prix to go.

    The multi-year agreement will see Mercedes-Benz supply Alpine with Power Units for the duration of the new regulations era, from 2026 until at least 2030. Alongside the Power Unit, Alpine will also be supplied with Mercedes gearboxes from the 2026 season. The team remains focused on performing in the strongest way possible in the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
    Alpine’s statement.

  • Renault cancel plans to build Alpine works engine

    Renault have confirmed the cancellation of their plans to supply engines for the 2026 Formula 1 season and beyond.

    The French manufacturer announced that its engine factory at Viry-Chatillon would be transformed into an “engineering centre of excellence” by the end of 2024.

    The decision comes ahead of the introduction of new engine regulations to F1 in 2026, with the Renault Group-owned Alpine team is now expected to agree a deal to have their power units supplied by Mercedes.

    This announcement follows months of speculation and unrest at the company, which saw Viry staff members travel to the Italian Grand Prix during the summer to protest then-developing plans to close the factory.

    Alpine’s F1 operations are currently split across two factories, the engine-focused division in France and the chassis focused is in the UK.

    Alpine will continue running their current Renault engine for the remainder of this season and all of 2025.

    The engine’s poor performance has been a factor in the team’s struggles this season, with the team sitting ninth out of 10 in the Constructors’ Championship with just six rounds remaining.

    As a result of the consultation process with the employee representatives, during which discussions were constructive and an independent assessment was conducted, Alpine’s management confirms its project to transform the site into a centre of engineering and high-tech excellence by late 2024. Formula 1 activities at Viry, excluding the development of a new engine, will continue until the end of the 2025 season. Each employee affected by this transformation project will be proposed a new position within Alpine Hypertech.
    The statement.

  • McLaren sign Will Courtenay from Red Bull

    McLaren have announced the signing of Red Bull’s Head of Strategy, Will Courtenay as their new Sporting Director.

    Courtenay will be leaving Red Bull after two decades with the team, having joined them when they raced as Jaguar before the operation was brought by the energy drinks firm.

    His signing is part of McLaren’s strengthening of their senior leadership team, with Courtenay set to report into Racing Director Randeep Singh.

    But McLaren will have to wait a little under two years for Courtenay to join, though with Red Bull saying he “continues to be part of their team seeing out his contract until mid-2026”.

    Courtenay is the third senior member of staff to choose to leave Red Bull in the last six months.
    Design guru Adrian Newey is set to leave to become Managing Technical Partner at Aston Martin while Sporting Director Jonathan Wheatley is to become Team Principal at Audi next season.

    Red Bull has since restructured the team following Wheatley’s departure, with a series of changes headlined by Verstappen’s race engineer Giapiero Lambiase becoming Head of Racing.

    Courtenay will now team up with former Red Bull colleague Rob Marshall at McLaren, with Marshall as chief designer.

    We are delighted to welcome Will to McLaren. His experience, professionalism and passion for motorsport make him the ideal candidate to lead our F1 sporting function. We are now entering a key phase in our journey as a team, and we are confident that he will be a great addition to our strong leadership team as we strive to continue challenging for wins and championships.
    Andrea Stella, Team Principal on the news.

  • Aston Martin announce technical collaboration

    Aston Martin has announced a significant milestone in its preparation for the new 2026 F1 regulations – with a technical collaboration agreement signed by the representatives of the team, Aramco, Honda and Valvoline Global Operations (VGO).

    The dynamic partnership is united in the aim to drive forward the development of the 2026 Formula One car under new FIA regulations for on-track success.

    As part of this strategic partnership, Aramco will deliver advanced fuels, with Honda developing a new works power unit that incorporates a 50/50 spilt between electric and combustion power.

    Additionally, Valvoline will provide leading-edge lubricants for the power-unit and expertise from its 150 years in automotive and industrial solutions. All parties will work together with aim of placing the team at the forefront of performance, reliability and sustainability.

    The partnership’s technical development builds on Aramco’s existing sponsorship agreement with the team, which has enabled close collaboration on a range of technologies that could potentially be deployed in road vehicles – from light-weighting of cars to safety enhancements.

    This milestone marks a significant step forward in our journey towards the 2026 F1 season – with the aim of pushing the limits of what is possible. The collaboration with Aramco, Valvoline Global, and Honda is now moving at pace, and we are on track to achieve our ambitious goals. The joint-efforts in developing advanced fuels and lubricants, along with our new Honda power unit, are set to elevate our on-track performance and we are confident that this partnership will bring substantial success to everyone involved.
    Lawrence Stroll on the news.

    We are incredibly excited about our collaboration with Aston Martin Aramco, Honda Racing Corporation, and Valvoline Global. This partnership not only underscores our work with the team, but also highlights our dedication to developing advanced technologies for use in motorsport and the wider automotive industry.
    Yasser Mufti, Aramco Executive Vice President of Products & Customers.

    Working together with Aston Martin, Valvoline Global, and Aramco is a unique collaborative experience. We are excited to power the Aston Martin Aramco race car into the new era of Formula One regulations and are proud to be part of this unique partnership with four incredible brands.
    Koji Watanabe, President of Honda Racing Corporation.

    Our collaboration with Aston Martin Aramco is a unique opportunity to push the boundaries of what is possible in motorsport. Valvoline’s advanced lubricant technologies are playing a mission-critical role in this partnership, and we are excited to see the results of our combined efforts on the track in 2026.
    Jamal Muashsher, CEO of Valvoline Global.

  • Audi announce Binotto as new F1 boss as Seidl departs

    Audi have announced former Ferrari Team Principal, Mattia Binotto is returning to Grand Prix racing as the new leader of their Formula 1 project.

    Earlier this year German car maker Audi took full ownership of the Sauber team, which will be run under the Audi banner from 2026, with an all-new power unit currently being developed in-house in Germany.

    Binotto, 54, will assume leadership of the operation on August 1st, as Chief Operating and Chief Technical Officer based at the Sauber factory in Hinwil, Switzerland and will report directly to the board of directors.

    As part of a restructure, former McLaren Team Principal Andreas Seidl – who joined Sauber in January 2023 and was CEO of the Audi team – is leaving alongside Audi executive Oliver Hoffmann, who was overseeing the project.

    Binotto was Chief Technical Officer at Ferrari until being promoted to Team Principal in 2019. He left Maranello in 2022 after three years in the job, and having been with the Scuderia since the mid-1990s.

    The first driver confirmed to be part of Audi’s new F1 project is Nico Hulkenberg, who will make the switch to Kick Sauber from Haas at the end of the season in what the German described as an “interesting” and “very exciting” move.

    Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas and Chinese racer Zhou Guanyu have represented the Hinwil team since 2022, but the futures of both drivers are unknown beyond the end of the current campaign.

    I am delighted that we have been able to recruit Mattia Binotto for our ambitious Formula 1 project. With his extensive experience of more than 25 years in Formula 1, he will undoubtedly be able to make a decisive contribution for Audi. Our aim is to bring the entire Formula 1 project up to F1 speed by means of clear management structures, defined responsibilities, reduced interfaces, and efficient decision-making processes. For this purpose, the team must be able to act independently and quickly. I would like to thank Oliver and Andreas for their important work in establishing our entry into Formula 1 and their commitment in preparing it.
    Audi CEO, Gernot Dollner.

  • FIA unveils regulations for 2026

    Formula 1’s governing body the FIA has unveiled the “agile, competitive, safer and more sustainable” set of regulations that will define the sport from 2026 and beyond.

    Revised aerodynamic regulations will work in tandem with new power unit rules, which include increased battery power and the use of 100% sustainable fuels.

    From 2026 onwards Formula 1 will have:

    • More agile cars, which are 30kg lighter and thus better to battle on track.
    • A redesigned power unit featuring increased battery power and an even split between internal combustion engine and electric power plus the use of 100% sustainable fuels.
    • Active aerodynamics in the form of moveable front and rear wings to allow for closer racing.
    • Increased overtaking opportunities through the introduction of a new system that gives drivers a short burst of additional battery power when within one second of the car in front.
    • Improved safety through stronger structures and even tougher tests.
    • Commitment from a record number of six power unit manufacturers.

    The revised technical regulations have been set out by the FIA, paving the way for them to be revealed before this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix.
    The 2026 regulations are now set to be ratified by the World Motor Sport Council on June 28th.

    With this set of regulations the FIA has sought to develop a new generation of cars that are fully in touch with the DNA of Formula 1 – cars that are light, supremely fast and agile but which also remains at the cutting edge of technology, and to achieve this we worked towards what we called a ‘nimble car’ concept. At the centre of that vision is a redesigned power unit that features a more even split between the power derived from the internal combustion element and electrical power. On the chassis side we have managed to reduce the size and weight of the car by 30kg resulting in a much more dynamic car. In addition we are introducing two exciting new features to enhance racing – active aerodynamics to achieve very low drag on the straights and the Manual Override system that will provide drivers with an on-demand burst of battery power when close enough to the car ahead of them. Lighter, more powerful and more focused on driver skill, the 2026 FIA Formula One Technical Regulations have been designed to provide closer racing among drivers, increase the competition between teams and to improve the spectacle. In addition, we have opted for a higher electrical component of the power unit, a more efficient car overall, and fully sustainable fuels, as part of our drive towards a more sustainable future for our sport.
    Nikolas Tombazis, FIA Single Seater Technical Director.

    Today, the FIA is defining a hugely exciting future for the pinnacle of motorsport with the launch of a comprehensive new set of regulations for the 2026 FIA Formula One Championship and beyond. Following the publication of 2026 power unit regulations two years ago we have we have taken opportunity to redefine the chassis regulations to match the energy requirement of the new power units. Collaborating with our partners at Formula 1 and with the assistance of the sport’s 10 teams and all our stakeholders this represents a unique revision that will ensure our premier championship is even more relevant to what is happening in the world. The power unit regulations have already resulted in a record number of PU manufacturers committing to the sport. And now, in tandem with chassis regulations that provide for lighter, more agile cars featuring innovative aerodynamic solutions, we have created a set of regulation designed to not only improve racing but also to make the championship even more attractive to PU manufacturers, OEMs and existing competitors. The key features of the 2026 F1 Regulations are advanced, sustainability technology and safety. Our aim, together with Formula 1, was to produce a car that was right for the future of the sport’s elite category. We believe we have achieved that goal.
    FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

  • Andretti team’s bid to enter F1 turned down

    Formula 1 has rejected Andretti’s bid to join the grid as an 11th team in the 2025 or 2026 seasons, but the door remains ajar to a potential entry in 2028 for the American team.

    Andretti’s bid, which has been headed up by former McLaren driver, Michael Andretti and his father Mario, the 1978 world champion, had been passed to F1 for commercial considerations after its application had passed the first two stages of the application process, which were run by the FIA, the sport’s governing body, in October.

    But Formula One Management, as the sport’s commercial rights holder, had the final say, and after several months of detailed analysis into submission, has announced that Andretti’s application has not passed the final test for entry, at least for now.

    Our assessment process has established that the presence of an 11th team would not, on its own, provide value to the Championship. The most significant way in which a new entrant would bring value is by being competitive. We do not believe that the applicant would be a competitive participant. The need for any new team to take a compulsory power unit supply, potentially over a period of several seasons, would be damaging to the prestige and standing of the Championship.

    F1 explaining the steps it took to review Andretti’s case and the reason for its conclusion on the matter.

    Andretti have since released a statement strongly disagreeing with the conclusions reached by Formula 1.

    Andretti Cadillac has reviewed the information Formula One Management Limited has shared and strongly disagree with its contents. Andretti and Cadillac are two successful global motorsports organizations committed to placing a genuine American works team in F1, competing alongside the world’s best. We are proud of the significant progress we have already made on developing a highly competitive car and power unit with an experienced team behind it, and our work continues at pace. Andretti Cadillac would also like to acknowledge and thank the fans who have expressed their support.

    Andretti on the news.

    The door to entry has however, been left open for 2028 by F1 on the provision that General Motors, the American car giant whose Cadillac brand had been backing Andretti’s entry, joined the bid as full works team or customer team.

  • Madrid to join F1 calendar from 2026

    Formula 1 has announced that the Spanish Grand Prix will be held in Madrid from 2026 to 2035 following an agreement with IFEMA Madrid to bring an all new circuit to the Spanish capital, which will incorporate both street and non-street sections.

    Built around the world-class IFEMA exhibition centre, the 5.47km circuit – subject to FIA homologation and final design specification – will feature 20 corners, with a projected qualifying lap time of 1 minute 32 seconds.

    It is projected to have capacity to host more than 110,00 fans per day across grandstand, general admission and VIP hospitality, while there are plans to grow the circuit’s capacity to 140,000 per day over the first half of the agreement, making Madrid one of the largest venues on the F1 calendar

    Located five minutes from the Madrid-Barajas Aldolfo Suarez airport, the Spanish Grand Prix will become one of the most accessible races on the F1 calendar, with the circuit just a short commute away by Metro, train and city lines.

    F1 is committed to reaching Net Zero Carbon by 2030 and IFEMA Madrid shares the vision to make the Spanish Grand Prix one of the most sustainable F1 events of the season, having greatly reduced its carbon emissions over the last five years and move to 100% renewable energy across all exhibition halls, while any temporary structure built for the race will be constructed using recyclable materials.

    Madrid is an incredible city with amazing sporting and cultural heritage, and today’s announcement begins an exciting new chapter for F1 in Spain. I would like to thank the team at IFEMA MADRID, the Regional Government of Madrid and the city’s Mayor for putting together a fantastic proposal. It truly epitomises Formula 1’s vision to create a multi-day spectacle of sport and entertainment that delivers maximum value for fans and embraces innovation and sustainability.

    Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1.

    Modern Formula 1 cars racing on a new circuit in the Spanish capital city of Madrid is an enticing prospect.As we build towards the introduction of the FIA 2026 Formula One regulations, which have been framed with Net Zero carbon by 2030 in mind, it is pleasing to see that the local organisers have placed a sharp focus on environmental sustainability in their plans for the event. As is customary, the proposed circuit will be subject to FIA homologation and safety checks and calendar approval by the World Motor Sport Council.

    Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA.

    Our dream of hosting a major F1 event around IFEMA MADRID has come true. We are thrilled to announce the return of F1 to Madrid after more than four decades. We have the ambition to organise a Grand Prix that will become a reference in the F1 worldwide calendar, specifically conceptualized and designed to offer a distinctive and unique experience for both fans and teams participating in the competition. With this, Madrid wants to deep dive into the development of a new concept that combines sport and entertainment, while delivering a memorable event.

    Jose Vicente de los Mozos, President of the Executive Committee of IFEMA Madrid.

  • Toto Wolff signs new deal until end of 2026

    Toto Wolff, Mercedes’ Team Principal and also owns one-third of the team, will remain in his role until at least the first year of F1’s next big rule change.

    Wolff, INEOS and Mercedes-Benz said the trio decided “let’s do it again” as they plot a way back to the summit of the sport.

    The Austrian has held the team principal role in addition to shareholding at Mercedes since joining from Williams in 2013, which led them to a record eight successive Constructors’ Championships from 2014 to 2021.

    There was some speculation over Wolff’s future in the day-to-day team boss role at Mercedes, but the 52 year old feels he remains the best person for the job.

    Mercedes this year are looking to build on respective P3 and P2 finishes in the 2022 and 2023 constructors’ standings.

    I think the most important thing between the three of us is that we trust each other. At the end of the day, as a shareholder myself, I want the best return on investment. And the best return on investment is winning. I’m not going to try to hang on to a position that I think somebody is going to do better than me. I make sure that I have people around who can tell me otherwise. In the end the three of us decided: ‘Let’s do it again’. I’m part of this team in various functions. I’m a co-shareholder. I’m on the board. These are things which will not change whatever executive, or non-executive, role I have. But I feel good. The risk for me is always more bore-out than burnout. And that’s why I embrace the challenges we have today, even though they sometimes feel very, very difficult to manage.

    Wolff telling the Daily Telegraph.

  • Mercedes to power Williams for 2026 regulations

    Williams have announced that Mercedes-Benz will remain as their power unit supplier from the 2026 Formula 1 season onwards.

    Mercedes started supplying Williams with engines in 2014, when the turbo-hybrid got underway, and the new deal means the partnership will extend into the 2026 technical regulation changes.

    F1’s future power units will exclusively use 100% sustainable fuel, reducing overall consumption, while their electrical systems will be upgraded to achieve higher performance.

    Williams’ Team Principal, James Vowles spent more than a decade at Mercedes and will have an impressive knowledge of the work Mercedes HPP do at Brixworth to create such a successful power unit.

    For Mercedes it makes sense as they have enjoyed a long relationship which helps them to gather data to develop the new generation of power units, also it’s about maintaining the relationship for Mercedes to potentially run one of their juniors with Williams in the future, as they did with George Russell.

    We have enjoyed a long-term partnership with Mercedes-Benz, and we are thrilled to extend this collaboration into the next era of Formula 1. The expertise, support and technology that Mercedes brings to the table align perfectly with our team’s aspirations in the medium and long term. This long-term agreement with Mercedes is a positive step and forms part of our objectives for the future, whilst we will still retain our design and manufacturing expertise and capabilities in-house.

    James Vowles on the news.

    We are delighted to confirm Williams Racing as the second customer team that we will supply for the 2026 power unit regulations. Today’s news highlights the strength of the Mercedes-Benz offering in F1 and importantly not only validates, but reinforces, our overall motorsport strategy. Since 2014, we have continued to build and develop our relationship with Williams. As the team continues to put the foundations in place to challenge at the front of the grid, we look forward to supporting them with our power unit supply

    Toto Wolff on the news.

  • Piastri extends contract until 2026

    McLaren have agreed a fresh multi-year contract extension with rookie, Oscar Piastri that will keep the driver with the British team until at least the end of the 2026 season.

    The Australian already had a deal to race for the team in 2024, having signed a multi-year agreement to make his debut this season, but some strong performances this season has made McLaren wanting to lock him down for the future.

    The 22 year old, took his first top-three finish in F1 when he secured second in the Sprint in Belgium and has scored points on six occasions, most recently in Singapore when he fought back from 17th to finish seventh!

    The announcement of his new contract, ensures McLaren will retain their current driver pairing until at least the end of the 2025 season, with team-mate Lando Norris having agreed a new deal with the Woking-based outfit in February this year.

    It follows a strong showing for the team at last weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix, where Norris secured his third second-place finish of the year and Piastri recovered well, as previously stated above.

    It’s fantastic to confirm that Oscar has signed a multi-year extension with the team. Oscar is an asset to McLaren and constantly impresses with his performance, work ethic and attitude, so it was an easy decision for the team to make. He has already proved pivotal to the team, so it’s brilliant to have his vote of confidence as we push to win championships again in the future. I look forward to seeing him develop with us as we continue this journey together.

    Andrea Stella, Team Principal.

    I’m delighted to be continuing our partnership with Oscar through to the end of 2026. He’s an incredible talent and an asset to the team so it’s fantastic to be committing to each other in the long term. Oscar is already proving what he can do out on track and has been instrumental in the turn around we’ve had so far this season. He’s fit into the team brilliantly and is really valued by the whole McLaren Racing family. I’m excited to see how he continues to grow both on and off track.

    McLaren CEO, Zak Brown.

    I am thrilled to be extending my partnership with McLaren for many years. I want to be fighting it out at the front of the grid with this team and I am excited by the vision and foundations that are already being laid to get us there. The welcome that I have received and the relationships that I have built make this feel like home already. The team’s consistent commitment in me has made me feel incredibly valued and the desire from the team for me to be part of its long-term future made this an easy decision. To be wanted like that and for the team to show so much belief in me after just half a season, means a lot. Stability is a huge advantage in this early part of my career and to have that with a brand as prestigious as McLaren gives me the opportunity to continue the work that we’ve started. We’ve enjoyed some good moments together in my rookie season, but I’m excited to work together with everyone at MTC over the coming years to create some great moments.

    Oscar Piastri on the contract extension.

  • Honda to make full scale F1 return, joining forces with AM

    Japanese manufacturer, Honda will launch a full-scale return to Formula 1 in 2026 as the works power unit supplier to Aston Martin. Honda left F1 at the end of 2021, after a seven-year stay in the sport that culminated in a drivers’ World Championship victory through Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.

    They continued their relationship with Red Bull through a power unit support deal, which is still set to run until the end of 2025.

    When F1 first unveiled its new engine regulations for 2026, Honda were enticed by the requirement to use 100% sustainable fuels and the greater focus on electrical power, as it delivered synergies with the automotive company’s goals.

    But with Red Bull pursuing their own path with an in-house power unit devision, aided by their new partner which they announced at their car launch, Ford. Honda then had to look somewhere else – and so they signed a deal with Aston Martin.

    Mercedes who have been a partner of the Silverstone-based team since 2009, will continue to supply Aston Martin with power units, plus the gearbox and rear suspension, until the end of 2025.

    One of the key reasons for our decision to take up the new challenge in F1 is that the world’s pinnacle form of racing is striving to become a sustainable racing series, which is in line with the direction Honda is aiming toward carbon neutrality, and it will become a platform which will facilitate the development of our electrification technologies. Honda is a company that has a history of growing by taking on challenges and winning world-class races. With the new 2026 regulations, the key for winning will be a compact, lightweight, and high-power electric motor with a high-performance battery capable of handling high and swift power output, as well as the energy management technology. We believe that the technologies and know-how gained from this new challenge can potentially be applied directly to our future mass production electric vehicles, such as an electric flagship sports model, and electrification technologies in various areas, including eVTOL which is currently under research and development. Honda and our new partner, the Aston Martin F1 Team, share the same sincere attitude and determination to win, so starting with the 2026 season, we will work together and strive for the Championship title as Aston Martin Aramco Honda.Honda has the utmost respect for the FIA, which made a bold decision to introduce these new and challenging regulations to ensure the sustainability of both racing activities and the global environment, and for the Formula 1 Group, which has been enhancing the brand value of F1 and ensuring F1’s evolvement as the most prestigious automobile racing in the world.

    Honda CEO, Toshihiro Mibe.

    We share a mutual drive, determination, and relentless ambition to succeed on track. Honda is a global titan and its success in motorsport is longstanding and incredibly impressive.

    Aston Martin owner, Lawerence Stroll.

    The new 2026 F1 power unit regulations are a huge and important change, but one which we are confident we can navigate successfully together. Jointly with our strategic partner Aramco, we can look forward to open collaboration towards a common goal. Our future works partnership with Honda is one of the last parts of the jigsaw puzzle slotting into place for Aston Martin’s ambitious plans in Formula 1. Finally, I would like to pay tribute to our current power unit supplier who we will continue to partner with for the next few seasons.

    Group CEO of Aston Martin Performance Technologies, Martin Whitmarsh.

  • Ford returns & partners with RB from 2026

    American automotive giants Ford have confirmed their intention to make a Formula 1 comeback when the new engine regulations are introduced in 2026, meaning another chapter will be added to the American organisation’s rich history.

    Ford’s involvement in F1 stretches all the way back to the 1960s and the DFV (Double Four Value) engine, built in partnership with British engineering firm Cosworth, which took 155 wins from 262 races between 1967 and 1985.

    From their first title wins with Graham Hill and Lotus in 1968 to their most recent with Michael Schumacher and Benetton in 1994, Ford have played a part in 10 constructors’ championships and 13 drivers’ championships – which make them the third most successful engine manufacturer in F1 history!

    Some 20 years on from their last participation, the appeal of F1’s future engine regulations – featuring increased electrical power and 100% sustainable fuels – will see Ford grace the grid once again.

    The news today that Ford is coming to Formula 1 from 2026 is great for the sport and we are excited to see them join the incredible automotive partners already in Formula 1. Ford is a global brand with an incredible heritage in racing and the automotive world and they see the huge value that our platform provides with over half a billion fans around the world. Our commitment to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030 and to introduce sustainable fuels in the F1 cars from 2026 is also an important reason for their decision to enter F1. We believe that our sport provides the opportunity and reach unlike any other and we cannot wait for the Ford logo to be racing round F1’s iconic circuits from 2026.

    Stefano Domenicali on the news.

    This is the start of a thrilling new chapter in Ford’s motorsports story that began when my great-grandfather [Henry Ford] won a race that helped launch our company. Ford is returning to the pinnacle of the sport, bringing Ford’s long tradition of innovation, sustainability and electrification to one of the world’s most visible stages.

    Bill Ford Executive Chairman, Ford Motor Company.

    After confirming that Ford will be returning, Ford then revealed at Red Bull’s launch that they are partnering up for “a long-term strategic technical partnership” with Red Bull Powertrains, ahead of the sport’s new regulations coming into play.

    Starting in 2023, Ford and Red Bull Powertrains – the Milton Keynes team’s dedicated engine division – will develop a next-gen power unit to supply both Red Bull Racing and the sister Alpha Tauri operation from 2026 until at least 2030.

    Ford’s return to Formula 1 with Red Bull Racing is all about where we are going as a company – increasingly electric, software-defined, modern vehicles and experiences. F1 will be an incredibly cost-effective platform to innovate, share ideas and technologies, and engage with tens of millions of new customers.

    Jim Farley, President and CEO, Ford Motor Company.

    It’s fantastic to be welcoming Ford back into Formula 1 through this partnership. As an independent engine manufacturer to have the ability to benefit from an OEM’s experience like Ford puts us in good stead against the competition. They are a manufacturer rich in motoring history that spans generations. From Jim Clark to Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher, the lineage speaks for itself. For us as Red Bull Powertrains to open the next chapter of that dynasty, as Red Bull Ford, is tremendously exciting. 2026 is still a while a way but for us the work already starts as we look to a new future and a continued evolution of Oracle Red Bull Racing.

    Christian Horner on the latest news.

  • Audi & Sauber to join forces in 2026

    Audi have reached an agreement with Sauber to make the Swiss Formula 1 operation their works team from 2026.

    The German manufacturer announced in August that they will be joining F1 as a power unite supplier, when new regulations that feature increased electrical power and 100% sustainable fuels will be introduced in four years time.

    Ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix this weekend, Audi said Sauber – who are currently running under the Alfa Romeo banner – will become their “strategic partner” for their F1 programme and that the automotive company plans to acquire a stake in the Sauber Group.

    Audi will create their power unit at their base in Neuburg in Germany where already more than 120 people are working on the project – while Sauber will develop and manufacture their race car at their headquarters in Hinwil, Switzerland. Sauber will also be responsible for planning and executing the race operations.

    Ahead of Audi’s arrival, Alfa Romeo will end their title sponsorship of Sauber a the end of the 2023 campaign. The Swiss team will continue to use Ferrari power units through to the end of 2025, before taking on Audi power for the following campaign.

    Audi who are apart of the Volkswagen Group – say expansion of their Neuburg facility in terms of personnel, buildings and technical infrastructure should “be largely in place for 2023”. They intend to do their first tests of the 2026 power unit in an F1 test car in 2025.

    We are delighted to have gained such an experienced and competent partner for our ambitious Formula 1 project. We already know the Sauber Group with its state-of-the-art facility and experienced team from previous collaborations and are convinced that together we will form a strong team.

    Oliver Hoffmann, Audi AG Board Member.

    The partnership between Audi AG and Sauber Motorsport is a key step for our team as we continue to make progress towards the front of the grid. To become Audi’s official works team is not only an honour and a great responsibility: it’s the best option for the future and we are fully confident we can help Audi achieve the objectives they have set for their journey in Formula 1.

    Sauber Motorsport CEO and Team Principal, Fred Vasseur.

    It is great news to hear that Audi will have a partnership with Sauber for their entry into Formula 1 in 2026. The combination of those two names is a very exciting prospect for our sport. It highlights the strong momentum that Formula 1 has and the belief in our strategy to further grow and enhance the sport while delivering on our sustainability plans to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030 with advanced sustainable fuels in the cars in 2026. We look forward to seeing their progress over the coming years and the car on the grid for the team’s first race.

    Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of F1.

  • Audi to join F1 in 2026

    German manufacturer, Audi will be joining the Formula 1 World Championship from the 2026 season as a power unit supplier.

    The announcement comes after new power unit regulations, designed specifically to make it possible and attractive for newcomers to join the sport at a competitive level, were published earlier this month.

    The 2026 power units, will maintain the current V6 internal combustion engine architecture but they feature increased electrical power and 100% sustainable fuels, which are the two factors Audi say were key to joining the sport.

    Audi – who are part of the Volkswagen Group – added that it also supports F1’s future plans to be more sustainable and cost efficient, with a cost cap for power unit manufacturers introduced in 2023 as well as F1 setting a target of being Net Zero Carbon by 2030.

    Audi Sport’s facility in Neuburg will be where the power unit is developed, marking the first time in more than a decade that F1 powertrain will be built in Germany.

    Audi say there are already test benches for F1 engine testing as well as for electric motor and batter testing in their Neuburg base. They are now currently working on getting personnel, buildings and technical infrastructure in place by the end of the year.

    Adam Baker, who has held several senior positions for manufacturers and teams in motorsport whilst also spending three years with the FIA, he will now run the Formula 1 project as CEO.

    I am delighted to welcome Audi to Formula 1, an iconic automotive brand, pioneer and technological innovator. This is a major moment for our sport that highlights the huge strength we have as a global platform that continues to grow. It is also a big recognition that our move to sustainably fuelled hybrid engines in 2026 is a future solution for the automotive sector. We are all looking forward to seeing the Audi logo on the grid and will be hearing further details from them on their plans in due course.

    F1 President and CEO, Stefano Domenicali.

    Motorsport is an integral part of Audi’s DNA. Formula 1 is both a global stage for our brand and a highly challenging development laboratory. The combination of high performance and competition is always a driver of innovation and technology transfer in our industry. With the new rules, now is the right time for us to get involved. After all, Formula 1 and Audi both pursue clear sustainability goals.

    Markus Duesmann, Chairman of Board of Management of Audi AG.

  • FIA approve PU regulations for 2026

    The FIA World Motorsport Council has approved power unit regulations set to come into effect for the 2026 season with increased electrical power and 100% sustainable fuels two of the key aspects of the newly-approved rules.

    The 2026 power units will maintain the current V6 internal combustion engine architecture, with the FIA setting out four key pillars of the new regulations, which are:

    • Maintaining the spectacle – the 2026 power unit will have similar performance to current designs, utilising high-power, high-revving V6 internal combustion engines and avoiding excessive performance differentiation to allow for improved raceability.
    • Environmental sustainability – the power unit will include an increase in the development of electrical power to up to 50% and utilise a 100% sustainable fuel.
    • Financial sustainability – financial regulations regarding the power units will reduce the overall costs for competitors whilst retaining the cutting edge technological of Formula 1.
    • Attractive to new power unit manufacturers – the new regulations are intended to make it possible and attractive for newcomers to join the sport at a competitive level.

    The regulations will see the current Motor Generator Unit Heat or MGU-H element removed whilst the power output on the power units’ Energy Recovery Systems will be increased to 350 kilowatts.

    The FIA continues to push forward on innovation and sustainability – across our entire motor sport portfolio – the 2026 Formula 1 Power Unit Regulations are the most high-profile example of that mission. The introduction of advanced PU technology along with synthetic sustainable fuels aligns with our objective of delivering benefits for road car users and meeting our objective of net zero carbon by 2030. Formula 1 is currently enjoying immense growth and we are confident these regulations will build on the excitement our 2022 changes have produced. I want to thank all of the FIA management and technical staff involved in this process for their diligence and commitment in working together with all of our Formula 1 stakeholders to deliver this. I also want to thank our WMSC members for their consideration and approval of these regulations.

    FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

    2022 & 2023 porpoising and roll hoop regulations approved-

    The WMSC also approved changes to the 2022 and 2023 Technical Regulations, designed to address both the issue of aerodynamic porpoising and of safety standards for roll hoops.

    With regards to porpoising, it has now been approved that from this months Belgian Grand Prix until the end of the season, there will be changes to re-define the stiffness requirements of the plank and skids around the thickness measurement holes on the cars.

    From 2023, meanwhile the following changes will be made:

    • The floor edges will be raised by 15mm
    • The diffuser throat height will be raised
    • The diffuser edge stiffness will be increased
    • An additional sensor will be mandated to monitor the porpoising phenomenon more effectively.

    Additionally, follow Zhou Guanyu’s crash at the 2022 British Grand Prix, the following changes surrounding safety standards for the roll hoops on F1 cars were also approved to become of the 2023 Technical Regulations:

    • A rounded top will now be required on the roll hoop, which will reduce the chance of it digging into the ground during an incident.
    • A change will be made to ensure a minimum height for the point of application of the homologation test.
    • There will be a new physical homologation test where the load pushes the roll hoop in the forward direction.
    • There will be a definition of new tests, to be carried out by calculation.