F1 to enforce stricter rear wing tests at Chinese GP, Tencent renews F1 digital rights in China, and other big updates

F1 to enforce stricter rear wing tests at Chinese GP

After observing concerning deformations in Australia, the FIA is introducing stricter rear-wing flexibility tests at the Chinese Grand Prix. High-definition cameras and reference dot stickers helped capture footage, leading the FIA to impose an immediate reduction of the allowed slot gap variation from 2mm to 0.5mm, with a temporary 0.75mm tolerance for China. This move follows suspicions of teams, including Ferrari and McLaren, who are exploiting aeroelasticity tricks like ‘mini-DRS,’ which had previously helped McLaren in Azerbaijan. Since teams keep pushing the rules, the FIA will also introduce tougher front-wing tests at the Spanish GP.

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

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Tencent renews F1 digital rights in China

Tencent will stream F1 in China until 2027, with all races and sessions available on its platforms, including F1 Academy highlights. The 2024 Chinese Grand Prix had 50% more viewers than in 2019, and Shanghai will host races until 2030. All 11 teams, including the new 2026 entry Cadillac, have signed a deal to keep F1’s commercial rules in place until 2030. F1 made $3.65 billion in 2024, a 6% increase, mainly from race fees, media rights, and sponsors.

Click here to read the full article by Tariq Saleh (sportcal.com)

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Is McLaren unstoppable this season?

McLaren proved its dominance in the season opener, with Lando Norris securing pole and both cars showing impressive race pace until Oscar Piastri’s late spin cost them a 1-2 finish. Lando Norris had a big advantage because McLaren’s car handled tires better, while Verstappen lost time early in the race. Red Bull got faster toward the end, but Christian Horner admitted McLaren had found a way to keep their tires strong for longer. Despite George Russell claiming McLaren could already shift focus to 2026, Norris dismissed the idea, insisting they must keep pushing to maintain their advantage.

Click here to read the full article by Filip Cleeren (motorsport.com)

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Melbourne was pure chaos!

F1 returned in the most CHAOTIC fashion at the 2025 Australian GP! The race had it all—heartbreak, jubilation, and high drama. Oscar Piastri, Isack Hadjar, and Jack Doohan all crashed, while Lando Norris took the win in Melbourne, and Kimi Antonelli delivered a standout performance. There were also some interesting sightings, from drivers' family members to surfboards and more.

Brit vs. Aussie slang battle!

With nothing but pride and bragging rights on the line, the McLaren duo took to Albert Park’s Fan Forum stage in front of a roaring crowd, putting on a show for Australian Grand Prix fans! It’s Brit vs. Aussie as Lando Norris goes head-to-head with his teammate, Oscar Piastri. How well does Lando know Australian slang? And can Oscar crack the British lingo?