Imola to decide fate of Pirelli’s new tire strategy, Cadillac could face $5bn setback from tariffs, and other big updates

Imola to decide fate of Pirelli’s new tire strategy

Pirelli is introducing its new C6 tire compound at Imola to test whether it can help shape predictable race strategies, especially after complaints about processional races like the Japanese Grand Prix. The goal is to create a bigger performance gap between tire options by "skipping" compounds, which could push teams toward two-stop strategies and increase unpredictability. However, the C6 has only been tested, not raced. So, its real-world performance at Imola will be critical in deciding whether Pirelli's plan to mix up tire selections can go ahead. If the compound doesn't deliver, it risks ending up like the failed 2018 hyper-soft, which forced drivers into slow, cautious races.

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

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Cadillac could face $5bn setback from tariffs

According to General Motors president Mark Reuss, Cadillac could face a $5 billion hit due to the U.S. government's tariffs imposed on foreign vehicle imports. Despite this financial setback, Reuss assured that it wouldn't impact Cadillac's F1 entry in 2026. GM's profit forecast dropped from $11.2–$12.5 billion to $8.2–$10.1 billion, partly due to the tariffs. The company is exploring cost-cutting options to manage the financial challenges.

Click here to read the full article by Gunaditya Tripathi (sportskeeda.com)

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Martin Brundle receives OBE from Prince William

Martin Brundle was awarded an OBE by Prince William at Windsor Castle on May 13, 2025, in recognition of his services to motorsport and sports broadcasting. The Sky Sports F1 commentator received the honour as part of the New Year's Honours list, announced by King Charles III. The OBE is the second-highest British honour, just below a CBE, which was awarded to Red Bull boss Christian Horner in 2024. Seven F1 figures, including drivers like Lewis Hamilton and team bosses such as Ron Dennis, have been knighted.

Click here to read the full article by Jake Nichol (racingnews365.com)

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McLaren's Miami stunt stirs Red Bull tension

Tensions between McLaren and Red Bull have flared up again in Formula 1 — but this time, it's not about lap times or overtakes. The latest spark in their ongoing feud came off the track in Miami, where Zak Brown stirred controversy with a cheeky stunt. He was seen drinking from a bottle labeled "tire water," a playful jab that didn't sit well with everyone.

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Why F1 needs women

Formula 1 is growing fast, and a big part of that growth is coming from women. More women are watching the sport than ever, and F1 has started to notice. This isn't just about the F1 Academy; it's also about the fans. The deal with LVMH and the attention on drivers' partners show that F1 is trying to connect with its female audience. But how is the sport really reaching out to them? And what's causing this rise in interest?