Overview
- Mercedes chief Toto Wolff downplayed assumptions of a resurgence under the new hybrid formula, saying early clues will come from late-January testing and Bahrain, with extra learning expected from supplying McLaren, Williams and Alpine.
- Lawrence Stroll called for patience as Aston Martin becomes a Honda works outfit in 2026, stressing the time needed to integrate a new power unit with the chassis.
- After a winless 2025 and fourth in the constructors’ standings, Ferrari is targeting a reset for 2026, with Stefano Domenicali expressing confidence that Frédéric Vasseur, Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc have a plan.
- Ex-Haas boss Günther Steiner predicted Max Verstappen will avoid a Vettel-style dip under the new regulations, and end‑of‑season votes by team principals and drivers named Verstappen the year’s top performer despite Lando Norris’s title.
- Dutch outlet De Telegraaf reported that Christian Horner and investors have offered about €763 million for roughly 24% of Alpine, a deal described as progressing but not confirmed.