Overview
- Aston Martin’s Mike Krack called the 2022–25 ground‑effect era “difficult” after finishes of 7th, 5th, 5th and 7th, as the team banks on Honda power, Adrian Newey and Enrico Cardile for 2026.
- Ferrari track chief Matteo Togninalli said Lewis Hamilton’s underperformance versus Charles Leclerc in 2025 reflects an adaptation process that “needs time,” describing their working relationship as extremely positive.
- Red Bull has moved on from Sergio Pérez, with rookie Isack Hadjar embracing a learning role alongside Max Verstappen for 2026, while Yuki Tsunoda said he was told after Qatar he would not have a fixed seat next year.
- Alpine, last in 2025, plans a reset with Mercedes power as Franco Colapinto readies for a full‑time 2026 campaign, with an A526 launch set for January 23 and pre‑season tests in late January and February before Melbourne on March 6–8.
- The 2026 regulations bring lighter, smaller cars with far greater electrical deployment, active aerodynamics and 100% sustainable fuel, alongside confirmed new manufacturer entries from Audi, Cadillac and Ford.