Barcelona has hosted Formula 1 since 1991 and has often been where pre-season testing has taken place; however, it’s believed that from 2026 onwards, it’ll be wiped from the calendar.

As reported by PlanetF1.com, F1 currently don’t have an update on the status of the iconic circuit in Barcelona.

Despite this, a street race in the Spanish capital is expected to be announced, with it having supposed to have been confirmed last week but only for a technical issue to delay it.

Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies

According to the newspaper, F1 will announce that Madrid will host the Spanish GP from 2026 either in the next few hours or potentially next week.

The street circuit in Madrid will reportedly be situated in the suburbs of Ifema and Valdebebas and be five kilometres in length.

Based on drawings of the potential Madrid street circuit, the track will go around Real Madrid Sports City and through where the Mad Cool festival is typically based, whilst the bulk of the circuit will be around the pavilions of the fairground.

One driver who’ll perhaps welcome the move is Carlos Sainz, as he was born in Madrid.

It should be noted that the first ever F1 Exhibition was also located in Madrid, highlighting how highly the city is viewed by the sport.

Whether the F1 Exhibition starting in Madrid and now the Spanish GP potentially moving there are linked is unknown, although potentially likely.

It will see another classic circuit possibly wiped from the calendar and replaced with a street venue, something which is happening increasingly often in F1.

READ: Franz Tost makes shock claim about Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen

Only in the latter stages of the 2023 season did F1 introduce a new street race in Las Vegas, with purpose-built circuits seemingly dying on the calendar.

More and more street tracks are being added by the pinnacle of single-seater motorsport, raising concerns that the sport is moving away from genuine circuits.

Whilst the racing isn’t often great, Barcelona is a gem on the calendar and has hosted some iconic battles over the years; however, it’s looking like it’ll follow in the path of Hockenheim and the Nurburgring.

The post Barcelona to lose Spanish GP appeared first on Formula1News.co.uk.

Mayer recalled one of the “stupidest things” he’s ever done whilst appearing on the F1 Nation podcast, where he delved into the shocking 2016 Spanish Grand Prix.

The 2016 Spanish GP is famous for two reasons; firstly, it’s where Max Verstappen won his maiden race for Red Bull, something which happened after Hamilton and Nico Rosberg crashed into each other.

The former Mercedes duo were battling throughout the opening few corners, before they collided on the run into Turn 4.

Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies

Hamilton was on the outside of Rosberg at Turn 3 but opted to try and get up the German’s inside ahead of Turn 4, where he was then squeezed onto the grass by his childhood friend.

The seven-time World Champion lost control of his car on the grass and crashed into Rosberg, resulting in the duo going off into the gravel trap where they retired from the race.

It was a shocking moment which opened the door to Verstappen, who claimed his first ever F1 win on his debut for Red Bull.

On that day, the stewards decided that Hamilton and Rosberg’s collision was a racing incident but it’s what happened after that Mayer admits is his “biggest mistake ever” as a steward.

Mayer recalled that Hamilton asked him how he should’ve avoided the accident, to which he started telling the British driver what he could’ve done differently.

Hamilton ended up becoming angry, before he slammed the door and left.

Mayer instantly realised he “wasn’t respectful” to Hamilton, as he was trying to tell the Stevenage-born driver how to drive, despite the fact he’s never driven an F1 car himself.

As a result, Mayer told Hamilton’s team manager to apologise to him on his behalf.

“My biggest mistake ever as a steward was in 2016, Hamilton and Rosberg started the race in Barcelona and they crashed,” Mayer said.

“Both drivers were out. We bring them in afterwards. And we decide no further action in the end.

“But Lewis says to me, ‘Well, what was I supposed to do?’ As a steward, somebody who’s never driven an F1 car, I started to tell him what I thought he ought to have done.

READ: Helmut Marko could be saved by loyal driver

“That wasn’t respectful of me, he got up, he was a bit mad and he slammed the door and walked out. Poor Ron Meadows, his team manager, went absolutely white in the face and said, ‘Oh, I’ll get him back to apologise’.

“I said, ‘Actually, Ron, I need you to go and apologise on my behalf because it was a stupid thing for me to do’.

“It’s maybe not my stupidest thing as a steward but I’m not going to tell you the other ones!”

The post FIA steward admits their ‘biggest mistake ever’ led to Lewis Hamilton anger appeared first on Formula1News.co.uk.

Gnabry’s journey in football has been one of the most discussed stories in recent years, particularly regarding players developed through Arsenal’s academy.

After a loan spell at West Bromwich Albion failed to yield significant results, Gnabry struggled to make a lasting impact at Arsenal before eventually moving to Werder Bremen. 

However, it was his subsequent transfer to Bayern Munich that propelled his career to new heights, amassing numerous titles and earning accolades such as the player of the season in Munich. 

Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies

He has also made over 40 appearances for the German national team.

When asked about his support for Arsenal this season, Gnabry expressed his allegiance, saying, “Yes, of course. There’s the saying ‘once a Gunner, always a Gunner,’ so of course, I was rooting for them and hoping. I think they had a very good season.” 

Despite rumors linking him with a return to Arsenal, which persisted until last summer, Gnabry remained committed to Bayern Munich.

It is evident that Gnabry still holds a special connection with Arsenal, even though he did not achieve great success during his time at the club. 

His continued support for the Gunners showcases the lasting bond he maintains with his former team. 

READ: McLaren react to Red Bull’s exposed floor

Football fans are always intrigued by moments like these, where players make comments showing their affection for their former clubs, especially during events like the F1 grid walk.

While Gnabry has forged an exceptional career since departing Arsenal, achieving remarkable success at Bayern Munich, his ongoing support for his old club underlines the enduring connection he shares with Arsenal. 

Regardless of his individual achievements, Gnabry’s affinity for the Gunners remains an integral part of his footballing journey.

The post Bayern Munich star sends message to Arsenal fans at Spanish GP appeared first on Formula1News.co.uk.

Despite starting on the front row following a tumultuous qualifying session, the Madrid native slipped back to fifth position as both Mercedes cars and a resurgent Sergio Perez overtook him during the race.

Sainz was left to lament Ferrari’s struggles with tire degradation, particularly on a track notorious for its demanding tire wear. 

Nonetheless, he fared better than his teammate Charles Leclerc, who faced a challenging weekend, being eliminated in Q1 and failing to score points on race day.

Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies

During the Lift the Lid podcast, Herbert shared his sentiments: “I felt very sorry for Carlos Sainz because he did a great job in qualifying, securing a spot on the front row. 

“However, during the race, he had two Mercedes cars rapidly closing in on him, ultimately denying him a podium finish.”

Herbert continued: “In reality, he would have secured third place if it weren’t for another team suddenly finding their stride and surpassing him. It’s unfortunate that he lost out due to circumstances beyond his control.”

The disappointment of missing out on a podium finish at his home race will undoubtedly motivate Sainz to bounce back stronger in the upcoming races. 

READ: Ex-McLaren engineer joins Alfa Romeo

Ferrari, as a team, will also be determined to address their tire degradation issues and regain their competitive edge.

Ferrari has been struggling to find their form this season, slipping from P2 in the Constructors’ Standings last season to P4 this year, behind Red Bull, Mercedes and the resurgent Aston Martin.

While it’s unlikely Ferrari could mount a title challenge this year given Red Bull’s commanding lead, there is still a chance for the team to challenge for P3 or P2 in the Constructors’ race.

The post Axed Sky F1 pundit says he felt ‘sorry’ for Carlos Sainz appeared first on Formula1News.co.uk.

Russell forced Hamilton onto the grass down the start/finish straight as they both started their final push lap in Q2, in an attempt to make Q3.

Hamilton was behind the 25-year-old and received a huge slipstream from the former Williams driver, who moved to the left to receive a tow from Carlos Sainz.

Hamilton saw the space that Russell left and opted to enter it, resulting in him pulling alongside his team-mate.

Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies

However, Russell then swept back to where he’d originally been, without realising Hamilton was there.

The duo collided as a result with Hamilton’s front wing having been broken, whilst the 38-year was also forced onto the grass.

Both drivers bailed out of their laps as a result, eliminating Russell from qualifying.

Hamilton, Russell, and team principal Toto Wolff blamed the incident on “miscommunication”.

Rosberg though, thought the incident was similar to his and Hamilton’s on the opening lap of the 2016 Spanish GP.

The pair took each other out as they approached Turn 4, with Rosberg having revealed last weekend during his punditry duties that he “didn’t see” his former team-mate.

“I didn’t see Lewis coming. How was I supposed to know he was behind me? Very comparable, actually,” Rosberg told Sky Sports F1.

Rosberg then discussed how the incident was followed by himself and Hamilton being joined in a room by Wolff, and Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche.

“First of all, a roaring Toto came in. Rightly so, logically,” revealed Rosberg.

“He then has said the first word on Sunday, very consistently, and then there was absolute silence for us at first, that was very, very difficult.”

READ: McLaren break silence on switching to Red Bull power units

Following their incident, Rosberg and Hamilton both had to travel to Ibiza to speak to the late Niki Lauda individually, with the German noting that Lauda was a “mediator” as the side’s non-executive chairman.

“On Monday we still had to show up at Niki’s, in Ibiza,” Rosberg continued. “First one, then the other.

“But Niki did a very good job as a mediator. Then we got back together a bit. Niki always tried to find little concessions on each side, that you get closer. Until you are very close and then you can say ‘okay, now we can actually move on’.”

The post Nico Rosberg uses George Russell to defend his controversial incident with Lewis Hamilton appeared first on Formula1News.co.uk.

During the post-race analysis after the Spanish Grand Prix, Matteo Bobbi and Davide Valsecchi made sexist remarks whilst live on air and have been subsequently suspended.

Valsecchi has since taken to social media to air his regrets, stating:

“I’m so sorry, because on Sunday in the post-race I fell into an exchange of bad-tasteful jokes and used unsuitable and disrespectful words. And I’m not.

Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies

“This is why I would like to apologise to those who felt offended, to women and to Sky. Really.”

Equally, Matteo Bobbi was quick to bemoan his comments, claiming:

“After the race I was the protagonist of a joke that came out in a completely unhappy way, although it was not in my intentions I generated an unpleasant moment that made the sensitivity of some people suffer. I ended up in gravel.

“Being anything but a disrespectful person I sincerely apologise to those who felt offended by reiterating my total and deep respect for everyone and towards women, particularly starting with the beautiful woman next to me. For 10 years I have been commenting on F1 with the friends of Sky, a family now and in 10 years I had never found myself in such an unpleasant situation.

“I’ve always thought that from mistakes you understand, learn and start again. What happened will lead me to try to improve further as a man and as a professional.”

As it currently stands, both men have been temporarily suspended and there has been no further action taken.

The hugely distasteful comments came when Bobbi drew attention to a woman who could be seen in the background, labelling her an “upgrade package.”

Valsecchi opted to join in on proceedings, responding,

“I already know them but they told me I can’t test them. So I raise my hands.”

Female broadcaster Frederica Masolin caught in the crossfire

Had it not been for the presence of fellow broadcaster Frederica Masolin, then perhaps the situation may have worsened.

Masolin thankfully told her colleague to “be careful” as she was understandably appalled by the unprofessionalism.

As the joking continued Masolin tried to save viewers from further discomfort, adding,

“Can we watch some interviews instead of these two? Let’s hear from Carlos Sainz, please. I’m going to censure you two.”

Masolin read a comment from a viewer that raised concern over the safety of Matteo and Davide, ultimately asking whether their wives would appreciate such behaviour.

Matteo and Davide foolishly continued.

“Well, when I get home I’ll get a beating, probably. Sorry, Davide,” claimed Matteo.

READ: Lewis Hamilton fires Lando Norris accusation

Valsecchi added: “Well you know I’ve had eye surgery twice because I’ve been losing sight since I was a child, looking at those things.”

It was a shameful end to an otherwise thrilling weekend which saw Max Verstappen win in Barcelona for the second year running, increasing his lead to 53 points over teammate and title rival Sergio Perez.

The Mercedes duo of Lewis Hamilton and George Russell impressed as the pair finished second and third respectively. It is clear that Mercedes upgrades have improved the W14 but not enough to close the gap on Verstappen who finished the race 24 seconds ahead of Hamilton.

The post Sky F1 pundits forced to apologise after disgracing themselves on the air appeared first on Formula1News.co.uk.

Alonso, however, remains optimistic and is confident that he and his team will stage a comeback in Canada to reclaim their position in the championship standings.

Following the race in Barcelona, where Mercedes showcased their dominance over Ferrari and Aston Martin, Alonso expressed his dissatisfaction with the fact that Mercedes has now overtaken his team in the championship. 

Lewis Hamilton and George Russell secured second and third place respectively, demonstrating their team’s strength. 

Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies

Although they were unable to challenge Max Verstappen for the top spot, they did manage to outperform Sergio Perez of Red Bull Racing, who had to start the race from the 11th position. 

As a result, Mercedes has now surpassed Aston Martin in the championship standings.

When asked about his concerns regarding the strong performance of Mercedes, Alonso responded, “It’s only one race… In Canada, we [will] demolish them. 

“I leave here happy because qualifying was our pain point. I came back well from my starting spot.

“We limited the damage. Mercedes made gains among the constructors, but we have outrun Ferrari. I’m happy with that.”

Despite the setback in Barcelona, Alonso remains positive about Aston Martin’s potential for success in future races. He believes that their qualifying performance, which has been a challenge for the team, can be improved. 

READ: Nico Rosberg fires Fernando Alonso warning

Alonso’s determination to make a strong comeback in Canada reflects his confidence in the abilities of both himself and the team. 

As the Formula 1 season progresses, the competition between teams intensifies, with each race presenting new opportunities and challenges. 

Alonso’s optimism and drive to overcome setbacks will undoubtedly fuel Aston Martin’s efforts to regain their position in the championship standings and prove their competitiveness on the track. 

The post Fernando Alonso puts a target on Lewis Hamilton’s back appeared first on Formula1News.co.uk.

Sharkira is no stranger to the Catalonian city of Barcelona, having spent 11 years with Barcelona football legend Gerard Pique.

This time, however, Shakira was in the city to accompany another sporting great.

Similarly with Miami, Shakira was in attendance in support of Hamilton, as the two were pictured dining with friends after the race.

Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies

From boat trips to dinners to media frenzy to speculation, no one knows for sure if there is a budding romance in the making.

But with the Taylor Swift-Fernando Alonso rumours at an end, the Hamilton-Shakira affair will certainly get its “deserved” attention.

Hamilton was able to equal his best result of the season with a second-place finish at the Spanish GP, giving the pair much to celebrate.

The podium finish brought Hamilton up to 87 points, significantly closing the gap on old foe Fernando Alonso who was unable to continue his run of podium finishes, settling for 7th place on home turf.

It was a positive weekend for Mercedes, who secured a double podium, with George Russell finishing third.

READ: OnlyFans star infiltrates Aston Martin’s garage at 2023 Spanish GP

Mercedes introduced major upgrades at the Monaco GP, but the nature of the track made it hard to detect how influential they could be.

However, with a new front suspension, new sidepods and floor, Hamiton has certainly grown in confidence and proved the upgrades have made a difference.

All eyes will be on Mercedes at the Canadian GP as the Silver Arrows look to close the gap on Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.

The post Are Lewis Hamilton and Shakira deliberately teasing fans? appeared first on Formula1News.co.uk.

Carmelo Sanz de Barros, who is also the president of Spain’s automobile club Real Automovil Club de Espana, dismissed the notion, stating that there is currently no approved circuit or firm proposal for a Madrid event.

“There’s a lot of noise but the circuit has not been approved and there is no firm proposal,” de Barros said.

However, De Barros did acknowledge the existence of “political will” to organise a race in Madrid, a sentiment echoed by F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. 

Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies

Domenicali warned Barcelona that it must improve its offerings if it wants to extend the current race deal beyond 2026. However, de Barros emphasised that Madrid’s plans are not yet at an advanced stage.

“The first request would be to the Spanish federation and then to the FIA. Then the commercial proposal would go to Formula One Management (FOM),” de Barros explained. 

“I can confirm that there is nothing for now, and due to the political situation, the situation will continue like this until September at least.”

De Barros reassured that Barcelona’s Spanish Grand Prix is not in doubt, as both the FIA and FOM have a history of fulfilling their contracts. 

Manuel Avino, another prominent Spanish motor racing and FIA official, expressed the desire to avoid a conflict between Barcelona and Madrid over hosting rights.

“What interests us is keeping it in Spain, and if there can be two races, even better. We had two in Spain not so long ago, with Barcelona and Valencia,” Avino remarked. 

However, Domenicali downplayed the possibility of multiple races in Spain, while FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem acknowledged it as a potential option.

READ: George Russell breaks silence on Lewis Hamilton incident

“I like this country, and the interest in having more than one Grand Prix is good news,” Ben Sulayem stated. 

“In fact, there could be two or even three,” he added with a smile, referring to his meetings in Barcelona with a delegation from Jerez.”

While the future of the Spanish Grand Prix remains uncertain, discussions continue among FIA officials, FOM, and various stakeholders to determine the best course of action for the sport’s presence in Spain.

The post FIA official admits ‘political will’ for Formula 1 to race in Madrid appeared first on Formula1News.co.uk.

Ocon valiantly defended his position when Alonso overtook him on lap 51 to secure seventh place. While Ocon’s late defensive move received criticism from some observers, Alonso stated that his former teammate raced him no differently than any other driver.

When asked about the nature of their battle, Alonso responded, “If it appeared different on TV, I don’t know. I overtook Zhou, Tsunoda, and Esteban, and for me, they all felt the same.” 

The experienced Spanish driver implied that Ocon’s defencive manoeuvres were within the usual scope of racing and not targeted specifically at him.

Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies

Ocon acknowledged the spirited fight with Alonso during the Spanish Grand Prix and expressed his enjoyment of racing alongside the two-time world champion. 

Recognising Alonso’s speed, Ocon revealed that once he saw the Spaniard on the right side, he backed off as he knew he couldn’t keep him behind. 

Despite relinquishing the position, Ocon maintained a positive outlook, stating: “There was no drama at all. It was good racing. I’ve enjoyed it, and I look forward to many more battles with Fernando.”

Elsewhere on the grid, Valtteri Bottas encountered difficulties during the Spanish Grand Prix due to damage sustained on the opening lap, according to his Alfa Romeo team. 

READ: Martin Brundle risks Christian Horner fury with Adrian Newey comment

Xevi Pujolar, the team’s head of track engineering, disclosed that. upon inspecting the car after the race, they identified floor damage likely caused during a skirmish on lap one. The damage affected the car’s performance and led to inconsistencies throughout the race.

Initially, the team attributed the issues to traffic and the challenges of maintaining tire temperature while navigating through slower cars. However, the problems persisted even in free air, hindering Bottas’ pace.

Starting from 16th on the grid, the Finnish driver ultimately finished 19th, with only Logan Sargeant’s Williams behind him. Alfa Romeo now aims to investigate the root cause of the problem and assist Bottas in understanding his experience with the car.

The post Fernando Alonso reacts to Esteban Ocon almost causing huge incident appeared first on Formula1News.co.uk.