Formula One News — June 2026

Austria GP - Thursday Press Conference

Audi has quietly become the first Formula 1 manufacturer to deploy an upgraded power unit under the FIA's controversial ADUO engine development system.

Fresh speculation surrounding long-time chief engineer Paul Monaghan has added to the sense of upheaval at Red Bull as the team prepares for a crucial home race in Austria.

Former Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko has criticised Formula 1's handling of the Monaco pitlane speeding controversy while renewing his call for the return of V8 engines.

The organisation of the former French GP has come under renewed scrutiny after a regional audit found what it described as "flawed" management of the event.

McLaren will become the third Formula 1 team to use the so-called 'Macarena' rear wing concept at this weekend's Austrian GP.

Retired Red Bull adviser Dr Helmut Marko believes this weekend's Austrian GP could mark a turning point in the 2026 title fight.

Zandvoort has already secured a high-profile successor to Formula 1.

Jean Alesi has defended Formula 1's controversial new regulations, arguing that critics are allowing nostalgia to cloud their judgement.

Jean Alesi has rejected suggestions that Charles Leclerc is heading down the same frustrating path he experienced himself at Ferrari.

Red Bull is preparing what insiders describe as its biggest upgrade package of the 2026 season as pressure mounts ahead of the team's home race in Austria.

James Vowles has insisted Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon remain fully committed to Williams despite fresh speculation linking both drivers with exits.

Lewis Hamilton says an injury sustained before his Ferrari debut contributed to his difficult first season with the Maranello team.

Oscar Piastri admits he has no explanation for his increasingly difficult run of form alongside McLaren teammate Lando Norris.

Kalle Rovanpera's hopes of pursuing a future in Formula 1 have received a major boost after Toyota confirmed the two-time world rally champion has been medically cleared to resume his racing program.

Alpine's successful Monaco appeal is threatening to trigger a wave of fresh challenges from rival teams.

Aston Martin admits its disastrous start to the 2026 season is beginning to take a visible toll throughout the team.

Max Verstappen has reportedly still not assured Red Bull that he intends to remain with the team through the end of his contract.

Isack Hadjar says working alongside Max Verstappen has confirmed exactly why the Dutchman is regarded as Formula 1's benchmark driver.

Toto Wolff has admitted Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton are now genuine championship threats as reliability concerns mount at dominant Mercedes.

Max Verstappen has further played down speculation about his future after his recent meeting with Red Bull's top leadership in Salzburg triggered fresh rumours linking him with Mercedes.

Honda has clarified reports that one of its senior engineers drove an Aston Martin Formula 1 car in Japan to help solve the team's vibration problems.

Barcelona is refusing to abandon hopes of returning to the Formula 1 calendar every year despite agreeing to alternate with Spa-Francorchamps from 2028.

Lewis Hamilton's long-awaited first Ferrari victory is ramping up pressure on teammate Charles Leclerc.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem has added fuel to growing speculation that Chinese automotive giant BYD could become Formula 1's twelfth and final team.