Audi’s new power unit heads into testing

Audi’s new power unit heads into testing

Audi has finished its first F1 engines for testing, but the engine it will race in 2026 will be much more advanced because they want more time to improve it. The early engine they use in January and in Bahrain will focus mainly on reliability, and Binotto says the race engine for Melbourne will be very different. Audi and Sauber are working together to make the engine fit the car well, manage energy more effectively, and get their new team used to working as one team. Audi may need FIA catch-up help in the first years, but the goal is to fight for championships by 2030.

Click here to read the full article by Scott Mitchell-Malm (the-race.com)

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Five drivers ready for a 2026 breakout

Alex Palou has been the top driver in INDYCAR for six seasons, but 2026 could bring new pressure. Christian Lundgaard and Kyle Kirkwood became breakout names in 2025, finishing fifth and fourth in the standings and proving they can run near the front. Several others, Marcus Armstrong, David Malukas, Christian Rasmussen, Felix Rosenqvist, and Kyffin Simpson, also showed big jumps in form with stronger results, more top-10s, and better consistency. All of them now look ready to turn that progress into full breakout seasons and challenge Palou’s control of the series.

Click here to read the full article at foxsports.com

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Why NASCAR’s 2026 playoff format change matters

NASCAR’s 2026 playoff changes are under debate because the current format can eliminate strong drivers after just one bad race. Jordan Bianchi suggests longer playoff runs, like a 10-race Chase or two five-race rounds, and he wants the top 10 in points guaranteed a spot while wins still matter. Jeff Gluck agrees that the top performers must be protected and says a single win shouldn’t let a weak driver take a playoff spot. Both believe NASCAR now needs a system that is fair, easy to follow, and still exciting for fans.

Click here to read the full article at heavy.com

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F1 Academy locks in long-term support

F1 Academy has renewed its deal with all 10 Formula 1 teams, and each team will continue to support one driver with its own livery. The series is growing with more races, an 18-car grid for 2025, and a new rule from 2027 that allows strong drivers to stay for a third season. Cadillac will join the programme in 2027, and more big brands are now supporting the championship. With more TV coverage, more fans, and a stronger structure, F1 Academy is now a steady part of Formula 1’s plan to develop new talent.

Click here to read the full article by Aashay Khandelwal (sportsmintmedia.com)

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HSR begins selection for 2026 Rolex 24 Classic race

HSR is now accepting submissions from owners of real 1990–2010 cars that once raced in the Rolex 24 at Daytona. Only 20 cars will be selected for the 2026 HSR IMSA Classic, which will run during the 64th Rolex 24 weekend with practice, qualifying, and a 30-minute race. IMSA’s John Doonan said many cars from this era already showed strong performance at the recent HSR Classic 24 and will be considered. Competitors must submit their car’s verified history through the online form as the first step toward being chosen for the event.

Click here to read the full article at imsa.com