Fast Five: Sainz rumored for Audi 2026 lead role, FIA introduces key rule change ahead of qualifying, and other big updates

Sainz rumored for Audi 2026 lead role

As the 2026 Formula 1 season approaches and Audi prepares for its debut, Carlos Sainz Jr. is rumored to take a central role. While his tenure at Ferrari has been solid but hampered by team strategies, Sainz has displayed leadership qualities. With his current contract expiring in 2024, the 31-year-old Spaniard seeks a long-term deal, making Audi a compelling option as his potential fifth team. Sainz's strategic thinking, often deviating from team plans, has led to success, exemplified by his recent Singapore Grand Prix win, indicating his unique value in Formula 1. His overshadowing by Charles Leclerc at Ferrari raises questions about wasted potential, possibly driving him towards Audi in 2026.

Click here to read the full article by Siddharth Bharani-Dharan (beyondtheflag.com)

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FIA introduces key rule change ahead of qualifying

FIA race director Niels Wittich has reintroduced the maximum time limit rule for all qualifying laps before the F1 Japanese Grand Prix. This rule requires drivers to maintain a specific time limit for each lap to prevent slow-lap queuing and enhance safety. The rule was not enforced at the Singapore Grand Prix, leading to concerns about impeding, but no penalties were issued. Wittich's event notes for Suzuka state that drivers may be deemed to be going too slowly if they exceed the specified time limit from the second Safety Car line to the first Safety Car line on any qualifying lap unless exceptional circumstances are accepted by stewards.

Click here to read the full article by Lewis Larkam (crash.net)

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Why Ferrari sacrificed second-place car in Singapore 

Ferrari adopted a strategic approach at the Singapore Grand Prix, aiming to maximize their chances of victory by supporting the car that qualified second if it secured pole position. Carlos Sainz Jr. won the race, having qualified in pole position just ahead of Charles Leclerc. Ferrari used tire strategy and controlled the race pace to secure the win for Sainz, but this compromised Leclerc's position. Despite this, Ferrari's win was crucial for the team, lifting them to third place in the constructors' championship after a challenging start to the 2023 season. Looking ahead to the Japanese Grand Prix, Leclerc expects a tight competition between Ferrari, Red Bull, McLaren, and Mercedes, making it difficult to predict the outcome.

Click here to read the full article by Keith Collantine (racefans.net)

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Fantasy preview for Japanese GP

Formula 1 returns to Suzuka for the 48th Japanese Grand Prix after a rain-interrupted 2022 race led to Max Verstappen's championship win with rule changes. F1 Fantasy experienced a shift in the meta lineup, with McLaren and Ferrari's resurgence altering the template. Keep an eye on Red Bull's performance in Suzuka, consider Ferrari, and note the rise of Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz. Suzuka's history suggests fewer overtakes, so look for budget drivers with race potential. Avoid drivers like Esteban Ocon, Yuki Tsunoda, and Lance Stroll, who are in poor form or facing challenges. The weather forecast indicates a dry Grand Prix, but rain before or after the weekend could impact the race. Consider switching to Ferrari if they perform well in practice, and smaller budgets can explore options like Sainz or Leclerc over Perez or Red Bull.

Click here to read the full article on f1fantasyhq.com

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Vettel's biodiversity project takes flight at Suzuka

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Sebastian Vettel's bee hotels on the inside T2 at Suzuka Circuit are ready for his Buzzing Corner project to promote biodiversity. Vettel, who is currently at the Suzuka track, talks about the uniqueness of the yellow and black curb painting and mentions there will be an opening ceremony with other drivers.