FIA approves Lindblad's superlicence request, Imola vows to return after 2026 snub, and other big updates

FIA approves Lindblad's superlicence request

Red Bull have put in a FIA Super License exemption request for Lindblad, which would allow the 17-year old British-Swedish driver to take part in F1 despite being below the participation age limit of 18. The FIA has allowed it's very first exemption to this rule, opening up to possibility to Lindblad competing in Formula 1 sooner rather than later. This comes after a series of impressive performances throughout his junior career that have piqued the interests of the motor racing world. The World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) confirmed he meets the criteria for the dispensation after performing well in the lower racing series and finishing fourth in the F3 championship.

Click here to read the full article by Misha Husic (fanamp.com)

‍

Imola vows to return after 2026 snub

The 2026 Formula 1 calendar has been announced, and Imola has lost its spot, being replaced by Madrid. The Imola circuit wants to return to the schedule after missing races in recent years. Following its return in 2020, after the disruptions caused by Covid-19, Imola became a popular race among fans and drivers. A statement from Imola's mayor, Marco Ranieri, expressed disappointment over the exclusion and highlighted the region's capabilities to host major events successfully. Despite the setback, he reassured that this is not the end for Imola in F1. The statement noted that the cancellation of the 2023 race due to floods is a significant factor in the current situation. 

Click here to read the full article by Fergal Walsh (racingnews365.com)

‍

Formula E unveils record-breaking 2026 calendar

Formula 1's Miami Grand Prix will debut on the Formula E calendar next season with a record-breaking 18-race schedule. The Miami International Autodrome will host the event, which the all-electric championship has secured. Spain will make its first appearance on the calendar in five years, with an E-Prix set to be staged at the Circuito del Jarama. The season will kick off in Sao Paulo on December 6th, followed by Mexico City on January 10. The season will also feature Jeddah, Berlin, Monaco, Tokyo, and London. The calendar is considered the most competitive yet, blending exciting new and existing venues with legendary circuits that define Formula E. 

Click here to read the full article by Jack Oliver Smith (motorsportweek.com)

‍

Albon learns Spanish

It's one thing to compete against each other and quite another to work things out during a Spanish lecture in Barcelona. Carlos Sainz teaches his teammate Alex Albon some Spanish phrases and expects him to pick them up almost immediately. That's pretty intense! You can bet Albon did an impressive job following up. He’s probably looking forward to returning the favor with some Thai lessons.

‍

Alpine driver change not working out

Alpine F1 boss Flavio Briatore expected Franco Colapinto to be fast, avoid crashes, and score points. However, after three races, Colapinto has not met these expectations, making the decision to replace Jack Doohan appear unsuccessful so far. But why does Alpine's controversial driver change seem to be failing so far?