Alonso to return for FP2 after missing FP1

Alonso to return for FP2 after missing FP1

Aston Martin confirmed that Fernando Alonso is sitting out FP1 in Hungary due to a minor muscular injury in his back, which he developed after the Belgian Grand Prix. Team boss Mike Krack explained that the break allows Alonso more recovery time and that the plan is for him to return for FP2 later today. Reserve driver Felipe Drugovich is filling in for FP1, and the team has made adjustments to Alonso’s seat to ensure he’s comfortable for the rest of the weekend. Krack said switching to Drugovich was straightforward, and the team will continue with the same test program originally planned for Alonso.

Click here to read the full article by Lydia Mee & Ronald Vording (motorsport.com)

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FOX buys 33% stake in IndyCar

Penske Entertainment sold one-third of its company to FOX to help grow IndyCar and extend its TV deal with Fox Sports. All races now air on FOX, which has led to a 31% rise in viewers and the most-watched Indy 500 in 17 years. Penske says the deal will bring new ideas, better digital content, and more attention to IndyCar drivers. The sale also gives a small clue about the company's future but doesn't include Penske's other businesses, like his car dealerships or race teams.

Click here to read the full article by Jenna Fryer (independent.co.uk)

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Court halts Rick Ware Racing sale in charter dispute

A North Carolina judge has issued a 10-day temporary restraining order blocking Rick Ware Racing from selling its NASCAR team to T.J. Puchyr, following a legal dispute with Jimmie Johnson’s Legacy Motor Club. Legacy claims it had a prior agreement, brokered by Puchyr himself, to buy one of Rick Ware’s two charters, but there’s confusion over which charter was sold and whether the deal was for 2026 or 2027. Ware argues he plans to lease one charter to RFK Racing in 2026 and sell the other to Legacy in 2027, while Legacy accuses him of lying and trying to secretly sell the charter to Puchyr. The court has scheduled a trial for January, but in the meantime, Legacy has also filed a separate lawsuit against Puchyr for interfering and has ended its consulting relationship with him.

Click here to read the full article at dailymail.co.uk

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BMW commits to WEC and IMSA

BMW has confirmed it will continue racing the M Hybrid V8 in both the World Endurance Championship and IMSA, with a clear focus on long-term involvement. The company also said its deal with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing will end after this season, though they might still work together in other ways. BMW hasn’t confirmed whether it will race the full IMSA season or the endurance races, but a new team will be announced soon. Team WRT is expected to take over the IMSA program in 2026.

Click here to read the full article by Rachit Thukral (crash.net)

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Why NASCAR’s new approach is working

NASCAR has shifted from its chaotic mid-2000s overhaul era to a more thoughtful, trial-and-error approach, where innovation is encouraged but not forced. The organization now takes risks like street races, rotating championship venues, and crossover events, while still honoring its traditions like the Daytona 500 and Southern 500. Leaders like Ben Kennedy and drivers like Joey Logano and Chase Elliott support this flexible mindset, trying new ideas and quickly moving on if they fail. This modern approach has helped NASCAR shake off outdated habits, embrace change, and create a future that still respects its roots.

Click here to read the full article by Ryan McGee (espn.com)