How bold strategy exposed McLaren’s hidden pace, Aston Martin denies Stroll lost temper before Spanish GP, and other big updates

How bold strategy exposed McLaren’s hidden pace

McLaren looked set for a one-two finish in Spain, but Verstappen’s aggressive three-stop strategy forced them to push harder than expected and showed they still had more speed left. Red Bull tried to beat McLaren by going all-out on pace, and for a moment, it almost worked. When McLaren told Piastri to push, he went much faster, which proved the team had been saving performance. Norris struggled with tire wear and couldn’t speed up the same way, and McLaren had to quickly pit him to stop Verstappen from passing.

Click here to read the full article by Gianluca D'Alessandro (motorsport.com)

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Aston Martin denies Stroll lost temper before Spanish GP

Aston Martin confirmed Lance Stroll withdrew from the Spanish Grand Prix on medical advice due to ongoing pain in his hand and wrist from a 2023 injury. Despite rumors that Stroll lost his temper and worsened the injury by breaking things and swearing at team members, team officials denied these claims. Chief Trackside Officer Mike Krack explained Stroll had been managing pain for weeks and likely hid its severity because he wanted to keep racing. The team emphasized that the decision to withdraw was made for health reasons, not due to any angry outburst.

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

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Why GPDA role put Russell in tough spot after Verstappen clash

Max Verstappen crashed into George Russell on purpose near the end of the Spanish Grand Prix, and many people think it was intentional. Even though Russell is a leader for the drivers, he didn’t want to speak for them because he was too involved in the incident. Verstappen got a 10-second penalty and three penalty points, which means he is close to being banned from a race. Russell said Verstappen’s actions cost him and his team important points, but he is focusing on making his own car better.

Click here to read the full article by Michelle Foster (planetf1.com)

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Drugovich ready to ditch Le Mans for F1 debut 

Felipe Drugovich said racing in Formula 1 is more important to him than racing at Le Mans if Aston Martin needs him to replace Lance Stroll. Stroll pulled out of the Spanish Grand Prix because of pain in his hand and wrist and had surgery. It is not clear how long Stroll will be out, so Aston Martin might need a backup driver. Drugovich made it clear he’s willing to ditch Le Mans to finally get his F1 debut and prove himself alongside Fernando Alonso.

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

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How does Vowles switch off with races on his mind?

James Vowles reflects on achieving four consecutive double points finishes, calling the result at the Monaco GP a clear step forward from previous races. He also answers fan questions, like what reliability problem Albon had near the end, what Toto shouted at him, how he relaxes even when racing is still on his mind, and more.