JUST IN : F1 News Round-Up: Verstappen’s 2026 Absences, Hamilton’s Ferrari Struggles, and Major McLaren Moves… Read more
F1 News Round-Up: Verstappen’s 2026 Absences, Hamilton’s Ferrari Struggles, and Major McLaren Moves
Formula 1 has entered another week of high drama both on and off the track, with updates ranging from driver absences and contract renewals to team management decisions and billion-dollar deals. Here are the latest headlines shaking up the paddock.
Verstappen to Miss Four Races in 2026
Three-time world champion Max Verstappen is set to miss four Grand Prix weekends in 2026, with Red Bull confirming his absences due to clashes with commitments outside Formula 1. While no detailed explanation has been made public, the announcement is a significant talking point, as missing multiple races could put Verstappen at a disadvantage in the championship fight. Red Bull has yet to outline who will step in for those races, but speculation is already rife about reserve and junior drivers being given the opportunity.
Hamilton Closing in on Unwanted Record at Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari has been anything but smooth. The seven-time champion is reportedly on course to equal, or even surpass, an unwanted record: the poorest performance by a Ferrari driver in over a decade. After years of competing for wins and titles, Hamilton has struggled to adapt to the Scuderia’s inconsistent machinery, often finding himself outside podium contention. With Ferrari’s season showing little improvement, his first year in red risks being remembered more for its frustration than its promise.
Red Bull Holds Talks Over Tsunoda’s Future
Red Bull bosses Helmut Marko and Laurent Mekies have reportedly held urgent discussions over Yuki Tsunoda’s future after another disappointing string of results. The Japanese driver has shown flashes of pace, but his inconsistency has left Red Bull questioning whether he can deliver the performances needed to remain in their program long term. With young talent lining up in the junior ranks, Tsunoda’s position could come under serious threat if results do not improve soon.
McLaren Secure Future With Young Talent
On a brighter note for the grid, McLaren has tied down one of its promising young drivers with a full-time contract for the 2026 season. The decision underlines the team’s faith in their rising star and their commitment to a long-term plan built around youth and stability. After years of battling midfield struggles, McLaren’s resurgence in recent campaigns has been anchored by its ability to spot and nurture talent, and this latest move continues that trend.
Hamilton Opens Up on Personal Sacrifices
Away from the track, Hamilton has spoken candidly about the personal sacrifices demanded of elite athletes. In a rare moment of openness, the Brit reflected on the toll Formula 1 takes on family life and how drivers often miss out on milestones with loved ones. His comments resonated widely, reminding fans that behind the fame and success, even the sport’s biggest names make difficult compromises to chase glory.
McLaren Finalizes $4.1 Billion Stake Sale
McLaren CEO Zak Brown has confirmed the completion of a massive stake sale, with the deal reportedly valued at $4.1 billion. The investment is seen as a major boost for the team’s future competitiveness, providing additional resources for car development, infrastructure, and talent acquisition. The move marks a new era for McLaren, strengthening its financial stability as it aims to stay among Formula 1’s frontrunners.
Zak Brown’s Frustration With Verstappen
Meanwhile, Brown has also expressed frustration with Verstappen’s presence in the sport, bluntly admitting that he wishes the Dutchman “out of the way as soon as possible.” With McLaren and Red Bull locked in a fierce rivalry at the front of the grid, Brown’s comments highlight the intensity of the title battle and the tension simmering behind the scenes.
Even at speeds of 200mph, the drama in Formula 1 shows no sign of slowing down—on track or off it.
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