As the Formula 1 paddock gears up for the Canadian Grand Prix, Lando Norris is optimistic that McLaren has made significant progress in rectifying its Achilles’ heel – slow-speed cornering. The team’s recent upgrades have yielded promising results, but the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve will provide a true test of their lower-speed potential.
Author: Caius Twilightbane
Williams Formula 1 team principal James Vowles has made an aggressive pitch to lure Carlos Sainz to the team in 2025, citing the squad’s ambitious plans for a Mercedes power unit and technical staff overhaul. Vowles is confident Sainz can see the strengths of joining Williams as it aims to return to its former competitiveness.
Mercedes has introduced a revised front suspension wishbone to the Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix in a bid to boost performance. Lewis Hamilton, driving the Mercedes F1 W15, expressed confidence in the car’s wet-weather capabilities and is hopeful about the team’s chances of closing the gap to the frontrunners.
Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso excelled in the wet conditions to top the second practice session at the Canadian Grand Prix, with Mercedes’ George Russell and Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll rounding out the top three. The session was marred by rain complications, as the drivers struggled to find the optimal tire strategy.
In a dramatic first practice session at the Canadian Grand Prix, McLaren’s Lando Norris emerged as the surprise pacesetter, posting a blistering lap time to top the timesheets ahead of Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz. The wet and changing conditions at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve forced drivers to adapt quickly, setting the stage for an intriguing qualifying and race weekend.
Formula 1 has unveiled the highly anticipated regulations for the 2026 season, which will see a significant shift towards electric power units and innovative car designs. While the aim is to maintain F1-level speeds, some drivers express skepticism about the performance and weight of the new machinery.
In a significant move, Sergio Perez has announced his intention to finish his Formula 1 career with Red Bull Racing. The Mexican driver has extended his contract with the reigning champions, solidifying his commitment to the team and his aspirations to achieve further success on the grid.
Lewis Hamilton has voiced his concerns over the 30kg weight reduction for the 2026 Formula 1 cars, arguing that more substantial weight loss is needed to improve sustainability and performance. Haas driver Nico Hulkenberg shares Hamilton’s sentiments, highlighting the potential impact of reduced downforce on high-speed corners.
With the 2026 Formula 1 season on the horizon, Mercedes is feeling confident about its ability to develop a class-leading power unit that could propel the team to renewed dominance under the upcoming regulatory changes. The team’s wealth of experience, progress in recent years, and expertise in emerging technologies like sustainable fuels position Mercedes for success in the new era.
Rising American driver Jak Crawford has successfully completed his inaugural Formula 1 testing experience with Aston Martin, impressing the team with his smooth adaptation to the high-powered AMR22 car. This milestone event marks the start of Crawford’s journey towards a potential future in the pinnacle of motorsport.