Why Monza’s new dark surface could spell trouble for Mercedes

The newly resurfaced Monza track is expected to create significant changes at this weekend's Italian Grand Prix. The fresh asphalt, which retains more heat due to its darker color, could affect tire temperatures and grip levels. Mercedes, in particular, might struggle with tire overheating, given its past performance in hot conditions. Teams are unsure how these changes will impact their performance, and hot weather may make managing tire heat even more important.

Click here to read the full article by Jonathan Noble (motorsport.com)

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Briatore in the dark on Alpine's engine strategy

The future of Renault's F1 engine program is uncertain, with Alpine considering whether to switch to Mercedes engines for 2026 and beyond. Alpine's decision to appoint Flavio Briatore as executive advisor has been met with mixed reactions, but he is expected to make bold moves to improve the team. Briatore has suggested that decisions about the engine department are already set by Renault's management, though he supports exploring new power units. “Our chairman decided it was fine. This was decided already before I arrived on the team," he explained. "Look at McLaren at other teams. McLaren is not doing everything. If you want to win, you need the best of everything that is possible."

Click here to read the full article by Jaden Diaz-Ndisang (lastwordonsports.com)

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Vettel backs Schumacher for Williams seat

Sebastian Vettel thinks Williams should consider signing Mick Schumacher if they replace Logan Sargeant. Even though Vettel admits he’s biased because they are friends, he believes Schumacher’s experience and knowledge of the Mercedes engine would help the team. Vettel feels Schumacher’s time at Haas wasn’t fair to him because the car wasn’t good, but now he’s more mature. He’s confident Schumacher would perform well at Williams and show what he’s really capable of.

Click here to read the full article by Henry Valantine (planetf1.com)

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Key talking points ahead of the Italian GP

The Italian Grand Prix at Monza will be a big moment for Ferrari as Carlos Sainz races there for the last time before moving to Williams. Lewis Hamilton’s upcoming switch to Ferrari has grabbed attention, especially since he hasn’t always had the best reception from the Tifosi. Rising talent Andrea Kimi Antonelli will make his F1 debut in practice, with many expecting him to replace Hamilton in the future. The circuit has also been updated, including changes to the Rettifilo chicane, which could affect how the race plays out.

Click here to read the full article by Will Wood (racefans.net)

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F1 seems to have a heart!

Formula One has always been known for offering free tickets to movie stars, influencers, and sports figures, but the Dutch Grand Prix stood out for a very memorable reason. F1 allowed the Ambulance Wens Foundation, a Dutch organization similar to Make-A-Wish, to give a number of critically injured patients a chance to attend the event.