Formula 1 News Roundup: Driver Market, Team Updates & More

Driver Seat Updates

Haas: Fornaroli in Contention for 2027

Leonardo Fornaroli is a candidate for a Haas race seat in 2027 after completing a TPC test.

Team principal Komatsu stated the test was part of the TPC programme to evaluate young drivers. Esteban Ocon's seat for 2026 is uncertain; he needs improved performance to stay.

Alpine: Colapinto's Future Decision Imminent

Franco Colapinto credited Flavio Briatore for helping him improve mentally and technically. A decision on Colapinto's future is expected before the summer break.

Team & Driver Statements

Mercedes: Team Orders Clarified

After team orders discussions following the Barcelona race, Kimi Antonelli stated he would race differently depending on competitors' proximity. George Russell noted that team orders are needed when teammates lose time to others.

McLaren: Upgrades & Development

Lando Norris will test a new 'upside-down' rear wing on Friday and stated the team is three months behind on development.

Oscar Piastri will receive a new Mercedes battery.

Ferrari: Leclerc Regains Confidence

Charles Leclerc said he regained confidence after issues in Monaco and Montreal. He clarified that the problems were not related to car comfort or Lewis Hamilton's input.

Williams: Technical Issues Persist

Alex Albon's Barcelona chassis remains at the factory for testing. He described rear-end issues affecting both cars.

Aston Martin: Alonso's 2027 Decision Looms

Fernando Alonso plans to decide on his 2027 plans around the summer break, depending on the success of Aston Martin's upgrade and Honda's engine upgrade.

Cadillac: Performance Boost Expected

A substantial upgrade package (sidepod and floor changes) is expected to be worth a few tenths per lap, per Valtteri Bottas.

Other Updates

Hamilton Neck Injury

Lewis Hamilton disclosed a neck injury from a 2025 Barcelona test, where a hit knocked out a disc affecting a nerve, requiring pain management for nine weeks.

Red Bull Ring Upgrades

Multiple teams brought upgrades for the Austrian Grand Prix.