Why teams turn to low-cost upgrades

Why teams turn to low-cost upgrades

Most Formula 1 teams are now focused on the big rule changes coming in 2026, so there have been fewer upgrades on the 2025 cars. Instead of big changes, teams are making small and cheap updates that can still give some extra speed. Brake ducts are the main area they are working on because small tweaks there can help with downforce, airflow, and tire cooling. Teams will still try upgrades this year, but only if they are simple, low-cost, and bring good results.

Click here to read the full article by Jon Noble (the-race.com)

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Winners and losers from a chaotic Bristol night

The Bristol Night Race was full of drama with tire problems causing 14 cautions and 36 lead changes over 500 laps. Christopher Bell made a three-wide pass on the final restart to win, giving Joe Gibbs Racing a sweep of the Round of 16. Alex Bowman was knocked out of the playoffs, Carson Hocevar lost his first win chance after a late yellow, and Ty Gibbs slipped up on pit road. Goodyear’s high-wear tire added nonstop drama, leaving teams scrambling for rubber in one of the most unpredictable Bristol races in years.

Click here to read the full article by Nick DeGroot (motorsport.com)

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Cadillac delays reserve driver decision

Cadillac Formula 1 boss Graeme Lowdon said the team has not begun the process of finding a reserve driver. The squad has already confirmed Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas as its race drivers, while Colton Herta will serve as the test driver. Lowdon explained that the reserve will also be chosen on merit, not nationality, though he admitted fans would like to see an American in the team. Cadillac is preparing to enter F1 in 2026 as the 11th team on the grid.

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

Hamlin risks crew ban after Bristol crash

Denny Hamlin heads into the second round of the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs 26 points above the cutline, but his team may lose two pit crew members after a wheel came off during the Bristol Night Race. The issue happened on Lap 385 when Hamlin hit AJ Allmendinger, leading to a crash and an immediate two-lap penalty for his No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing team. NASCAR rules require further penalties, including suspensions, though crew chief Chris Gayle argued the contact caused the wheel to come off. Hamlin and Gayle both suggested there was a mechanical issue, and while the team is not sure if it will appeal, they insist they are ready to handle any outcome.

Click here to read the full article by Matt Weaver (motorsport.com)

Radburn to join F1 Academy rookie test

Australian driver Imogen Radburn will join F1 Academy’s first rookie test at Spain’s Circuito de Navarra on September 17–18. The test will have 18 young drivers racing the same cars and taking physical and mental tests. 19-year-old Radburn has already won state titles in Formula Ford and Formula 4 and helps promote women in motorsport through programs like Girls on Track. A strong performance could give her a full-time seat or wildcard spot in the 2026 F1 Academy season.

Click here to read the full article by Ben Waterworth (speedcafe.com)