BREAKING : F1 News Roundup: Driver Changes, Calendar Updates, and Hamilton Under Pressure Ahead of Azerbaijan GP… Read more
F1 News Roundup: Driver Changes, Calendar Updates, and Hamilton Under Pressure Ahead of Azerbaijan GP
The build-up to this weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku has already been dominated by a string of headlines across the Formula 1 paddock, with key announcements ranging from driver changes to major calendar updates.
One of the biggest developments is confirmation that a team will be fielding two replacement drivers in Baku. The shake-up means a legendary name on the grid will miss out on the race weekend entirely, opening the door for fresh talent to step in. The decision marks one of the most significant lineup changes of the season so far, with fans eager to see how the newcomers will fare under the pressure of a high-speed street circuit renowned for drama and unpredictability.
Away from driver news, Formula 1 has also finalized the sprint race calendar for 2026. The sprint format, first introduced in 2021, has divided opinion among drivers, teams, and fans alike. While some appreciate the added action, others argue it dilutes the spectacle of a traditional grand prix weekend. Talks are now expected between F1 and the FIA regarding possible tweaks, including the controversial suggestion of introducing a reverse-grid format. Such a move would radically shake up the order and could provide more overtaking and unpredictability, though it is sure to fuel debate among purists who prefer merit-based starting positions.
Meanwhile, the incoming Cadillac F1 team continues preparations ahead of their highly anticipated debut on the grid next year. Team principal Graeme Lowdon has revealed that the American manufacturer is still in search of a reserve driver to support their entry. While no names have been confirmed, the team’s recruitment efforts underline their determination to arrive in Formula 1 well-prepared, both on and off the track.
At Ferrari, team principal Fred Vasseur has acknowledged the need to both support and challenge Lewis Hamilton, whose maiden season with the Scuderia has not gone to plan. The seven-time world champion is yet to secure a podium in his 16 races wearing Ferrari red, a statistic that highlights the rocky nature of his transition from Mercedes. Vasseur emphasized the importance of balancing encouragement with pressure to help Hamilton adapt and extract the most from the car, as the team looks to climb back toward the front of the grid.
Over at McLaren, team principal Andrea Stella has addressed the ongoing fallout from the team orders incident at Monza, where Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were caught up in a controversial exchange. Stella confirmed that the team would carefully review the situation to ensure fairness and avoid damaging internal competition between the two highly competitive young drivers. The issue has sparked debate over how far McLaren should go in managing its driver duo as they remain in contention at the sharp end of the championship.
In other updates, the FIA confirmed that Carlos Sainz has had a previously issued penalty overturned, providing a welcome boost for the Spaniard as he prepares for the streets of Baku.
Finally, television coverage will look slightly different this weekend as a popular Sky Sports presenter will be absent from screens during the Azerbaijan GP broadcast. While fans will miss the familiar voice, the network is set to reshuffle its on-air lineup for Baku.
With high-speed straights, tight corners, and a reputation for producing unexpected results, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix is already shaping up to be another dramatic chapter in the 2025 F1 season.
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