Austrian club slams FIA over election power grab, F1 moves to block tire cooling loopholes, and other big updates

Austrian club slams FIA over election power grab 

The Austrian Automobile Association (ÖAMTC) warned that new rule changes backed by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem could seriously damage the FIA’s democracy. One of the changes would make it harder for others to run against him in the next election, which the ÖAMTC says appears to be a power grab. The letter also says FIA leaders are using pressure and secret contracts with big fines to stop people from speaking out. The ÖAMTC believes the FIA is already losing trust and says the vote on these changes should be removed.

Click here to read the full article by Phillip van Osten (f1i.com)

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F1 moves to block tire cooling loopholes 

The FIA has revised its rules for 2026 to make it more challenging for teams to keep their tires cool in hot weather. This comes after McLaren was able to manage tire temperatures better than other teams, which raised questions even though they didn’t break any rules. The updated rule now bans any method, except for tire blankets and certain air openings, that heats, cools, or maintains steady wheel and brake temperatures. This change could take away McLaren’s advantage and may start a debate about whether the FIA is being fair.

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

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Canadian GP could decide Colapinto’s future

Franco Colapinto was told there was no set number of races to prove himself at Alpine, but that may be changing after three poor races. Team boss Flavio Briatore now says Colapinto will only stay if he performs well. So far, Colapinto has crashed in Imola, finished 13th in Monaco, and came 15th in Spain after more issues. With other drivers like Paul Aron and Jack Doohan waiting, Colapinto could lose his seat soon.

Click here to read the full article by Stuart Codling (motorsport.com)

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Mercedes no longer clear 2026 favorite

Mercedes is facing familiar problems in 2025 that could hurt its chances of leading Formula 1's 2026 rules overhaul. While many expect the team to rise again with the new engine rules, as it did in 2014, its current struggles raise doubts about its future. Even with fresh engine and chassis regulations coming, major issues this season suggest the road back to the top won't be easy.

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How F1 suspension works

There's a lot going on beneath an F1 car, but few systems are as critical or as complex as the suspension. It connects the wheels to the chassis and plays a key role in how the car handles bumps, corners, and varying loads. But just how incredible is the engineering behind it? Scott Mansell was given access to Alpine's 2022 F1 car and spoke with their chassis systems manager to break down the details.