Latest news with #FerrariSF-24
Yahoo
14-07-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
How Lewis Hamilton is shaping Ferrari's 2026 F1 car
Having passed the halfway point of the 2025 Formula 1 campaign, focus is fixed upon preparations for next season and the regulations overhaul – with Lewis Hamilton wanting to give his 'DNA' to the next Ferrari car. But what exactly is he looking for? The gap between the British Grand Prix and Belgian GP provides an ideal moment to take stock of both present and future, especially with one of the biggest technical revolutions in the championship's history on the horizon. These two dimensions inevitably intertwine: the present and future may seem far apart, but they're connected by a common thread of continuity, experience and development. Advertisement At Ferrari, this connection manifests in the need to turn around a season that has so far fallen short of expectations, with the awareness that the work done today and in the coming months will lay the groundwork for the 2026 car. Development is not yet in an advanced stage, but it is at a crucial point where basic design choices are being defined. As with any new venture, the F1 2026 preparations show that now is a time not only to improve the short term but also to begin leaving a mark on the future, both technically and in terms of work methods. Each driver brings a wealth of experience that can be a valuable resource, especially when coming from a team that has remained at the top for years. Ironing out inconsistencies from current Ferrari car Hamilton's 2025 season has been inconsistent so far, partly due to a lack of connection with the car. And it's from these limitations - both technical and in terms of feeling - that the seven-time world champion is trying to shape his contribution to the 2026 Ferrari, openly expressing a desire to infuse the project with his own 'DNA'. Advertisement Some issues stem from structural features of the car that must be assessed to find performance. Others are more tied to details that surface during adaptation to a new environment. It's a common process, as seen with Carlos Sainz at Williams and Nico Hulkenberg at Sauber, who had requested changes to the power steering and throttle. Ferrari SF-24 steering wheel Ferrari SF-24 steering wheel Power steering is one of the aspects Hamilton has focused on since his first outings with Ferrari. Beyond what emerged after Silverstone - which may be linked to the need to redesign the steering system following a suspension layout change – the Briton has asked for targeted adjustments based on personal needs and adaptation challenges that only become evident through on-track work. Advertisement It's important to distinguish between structural problems affecting both drivers and subjective needs related to individual feeling. Steering set-up, in particular, is highly personal: every driver has preferences that tend to become clear especially when changing teams and experiencing different lateral forces on track. Read Also: How Ferrari is helping Hamilton settle with Mercedes-inspired steering wheel software These details add to the inherent challenges of the SF-25, a car often difficult to balance. That's why Charles Leclerc has leaned towards extreme set-up solutions, especially in how he exploits the front end and compensates at the rear. Hamilton has tried various directions to adapt, some more effective than others, and has begun aligning more closely with the Monegasque's choices. Advertisement 'Charles and the team found a way to make the car work. I tried all the other directions that should theoretically work, but for some reason they didn't. So gradually I've gotten closer and closer to how Charles sets up the car,' said Hamilton. 'Last week [in Austria] was when I got the closest, and our race pace was also the most similar. But it's still difficult. It's a tricky balance, and the driving isn't comfortable.' Nonetheless, these adjustments have improved his qualifying speed, reducing the gap to his team-mate, while race pace still suffers, particularly as tyre grip drops. Some issues can't be solved with set-up alone, like the feeling in fast corners, which is an area Hamilton has struggled with all season. It's an instability that must be managed, especially in tight high-speed corners where trust and steering precision are critical. Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Unsurprisingly, Hamilton has highlighted stability as an area needing improvement, now and in the future. Advertisement 'Charles has been working with a car that's a bit more oversteery, and that approach has worked well,' said Ferrari deputy team principal Jerome d'Ambrosio. "Recently, Lewis has moved in that direction and is making it work. I think it's a result of the current regulations. We're seeing instability at corner entry. These cars are nervous, and drivers have to partly learn to live with that." There are specific technical issues limiting Leclerc as well, such as front-end struggles in slow corners. The longer and more flowing the corner, the more the SF-25 tends to understeer at the front. In sharper corners, some of these issues are masked, as seen in Austria. This makes it difficult to find a balanced compromise. Finding a bigger operating window Some aspects can be improved in the short term, but others require time – especially with 2026 in mind. The goal is not necessarily to go in one specific direction but to have more operational flexibility. For instance, since the beginning of the year, Hamilton has pointed out problems with the brakes and engine braking, which he finds too aggressive. At Mercedes, those elements were smoother – a difference not easily fixed via steering wheel settings, especially for a driver who likes to trail brake into corners. Advertisement In developing a new car, engineers always seek performance through design to meet set goals for downforce and drag. That's why cars are not built around a specific driver. Instead, the driver's input helps identify areas where more flexibility is needed – broad themes that become guidance based on experience. This is where Hamilton is trying to give the 2026 Ferrari his 'DNA', not just technically but also in terms of working methods. Considering the packed calendar, factory drivers often test the following year's car in the simulator relatively late, unless there's a major regulation change. In such cases, feedback arrives earlier, but mostly at a conceptual level. Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari 'We listen to the drivers' input. Not just one driver, both. It's actually interesting, because during factory meetings, it often turns out the drivers arrive at very similar requests, conceptually, about what they need from the car,' said d'Ambrosio at Silverstone. Advertisement 'We try to take that into account. Of course, part of development is simply about bringing a package that maximises downforce and performance. But there's also a lot that can be done to give the drivers the right tools and conditions to work, and to make sure they can adapt the car as much as possible to their driving style. 'There are two phases, and I don't think they're entirely separate. Generally, there are overall balances in the car that generate performance. Then there's a second phase involving the details – a phase where you absolutely must listen to the drivers.' To read more articles visit our website.
Newsweek
30-06-2025
- Automotive
- Newsweek
F1 Announces Azerbaijan GP Date Change for 2026
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Formula One has accepted a request made by the promoters of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix and government stakeholders to shift the dates of the 2026 race weekend in Baku. The Grand Prix was originally scheduled for Sunday, 27 September 2026, according to the recently released 2026 F1 calendar. However, to accommodate a national day of mourning, F1 and FIA have shifted the Azerbaijan GP to Saturday, 26 September. This means all the other events prior to race day, including qualifying, practice sessions, and media day, will take place one day earlier than usual. All F1 teams have been notified of the change. Sergio Perez of Mexico driving the (11) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 leads Carlos Sainz of Spain driving (55) the Ferrari SF-24 during the F1 Grand Prix of Azerbaijan at Baku City Circuit on September... Sergio Perez of Mexico driving the (11) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 leads Carlos Sainz of Spain driving (55) the Ferrari SF-24 during the F1 Grand Prix of Azerbaijan at Baku City Circuit on September 15, 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan. More2026 marks F1's entry into a new era of regulations, where cars will not only be smaller and lighter but will also be powered by electric power and internal combustion in equal measure. In addition, the year also marks the beginning of a historic F1 journey for the sport's eleventh team, Cadillac F1, while the Sauber F1 team will be present on the grid as an Audi works team following a takeover by the German automaker. In terms of Grand Prix destinations, a big change is the introduction of Madrid as a second Grand Prix destination in Spain, which replaces Imola. Announcing the 2026 F1 calendar, Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said: "2026 will be a new era for Formula 1 where we will witness a brand-new set of regulations for our sport, the cars and the engines that will be powered by 100% sustainable fuel. "We are excited to welcome Madrid to the calendar, and to see huge automotive brands like Audi, Cadillac and Ford join the Formula 1 grid. "It promises to be an unforgettable season, where once again we will come together at 24 amazing global venues to watch the best drivers in the world push themselves to the limit and produce incredible wheel to wheel racing for our millions of fans watching around the globe. "I want to thank all our fans for their passionate support and the FIA, with all the volunteers, marshals and officials, as well as the promoters, partners, sponsors, host cities and the local motor racing federations for their commitment and support in delivering this schedule in what I know will be another historic year for Formula 1." The 2026 F1 Schedule 6–8 March – Australia – Melbourne 13–15 March – China – Shanghai 27–29 March – Japan – Suzuka 10–12 April – Bahrain – Sakhir 17–19 April – Saudi Arabia – Jeddah 1–3 May – USA – Miami 22–24 May – Canada – Montreal 5–7 June – Monaco – Monaco 12–14 June – Spain – Barcelona 26–28 June – Austria – Spielberg 3–5 July – United Kingdom – Silverstone 17–19 July – Belgium – Spa 24–26 July – Hungary – Budapest 21–23 August – Netherlands – Zandvoort 4–6 September – Italy – Monza 11–13 September – Spain – Madrid 24–26 September – Azerbaijan – Baku 9–11 October – Singapore – Singapore 23–25 October – USA – Austin 30 October – 1 November – Mexico – Mexico City 6–8 November – Brazil – São Paulo 19–21 November – USA – Las Vegas 27–29 November – Qatar – Lusail 4–6 December – Abu Dhabi – Yas Marina
Forbes
08-04-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
F1 Bahrain Grand Prix 2025 Start Times And How To Watch Live
BAHRAIN, BAHRAIN - MARCH 02: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull ... More Racing RB20 leads Charles Leclerc of Monaco driving the (16) Ferrari SF-24 and the rest of the field during the F1 Grand Prix of Bahrain at Bahrain International Circuit on March 02, 2024 in Bahrain, Bahrain. (Photo by) Formula 1 heads to the Middle East for the fourth round of the 2025 season, with the Bahrain Grand Prix in Sakhir taking place from April 11-13. Lando Norris of McLaren racked up 62 points from the opening three rounds which has him sitting at the top of the drivers' standings. But he has only got a slim one-point advantage over Red Bull's Max Verstappen and is 13 points ahead of his teammate Oscar Piastri. Verstappen tightened the gap after pulling off an impressive performance last weekend, having wrestled his flawed RB21 car around Suzuka to snag a magical pole position and convert it into his first win of the season and his fourth Japanese GP victory in a row. Meanwhile, Norris and Piastri wrapped up the race in second and third respectively, helping McLaren extend its lead in the constructors' championship to 111 points – 36 points clear of Mercedes and 50 points ahead of Red Bull. Heading into the second race of the first triple-header of the year this weekend, the Woking squad is all about reclaiming its early-season edge and making sure that Verstappen – or anyone else – doesn't get a leg up in their quest for a second consecutive constructors' championship and the first drivers' title since 2008. Round four of the season at Bahrain International Circuit kicks off with FP1 on Friday, April 11 at 2:30 p.m. local time, followed by FP2 later in the day at 6 p.m. On Saturday, April 12, drivers will climb into their cars for the final practice run (FP3) at 3:30 p.m. before they fight for grid positions in qualifying at 7 p.m. The 57-lap race will get underway at 6 p.m. on Sunday, April 13. All below start times are on Friday unless stated otherwise. All below start times are on Friday unless stated otherwise. All below start times are on Saturday unless stated otherwise. All below start times are on Saturday unless stated otherwise. All below start times are on Sunday unless stated otherwise. In the United Kingdom, fans can enjoy extensive coverage of the Bahrain Grand Prix on Sky Sports, while viewers in the United States can watch the live action on ESPN and ESPN+. In select regions, F1 TV Pro subscribers can tune in for live coverage on any device, along with the opportunity to catch up on full session replays and highlights afterward. Below is the broadcast information for some key territories: Highlights from each day of the Bahrain Grand Prix weekend will be available on F1's YouTube channel.
Yahoo
09-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Lego F1 Sets Let You Put the Full 10-Team Racing Grid on Your Desk
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Lego's partnership with Formula 1 racing now sees all 10 teams represented at the Minifig level. For the grownups, there are also highly detailed 1:8 scale sets from Technic that cost more than $200 each. has also launched an online F1 portal with explainers about the racing and the teams. Formula 1 entering into a partnership with the world's largest tire manufacturer is something you expect. Not so obvious is the fact that the tiremaker in question is Lego. It's true: producing about 300 million tiny rubber wheels each year makes Lego the leader in tires. Now the toy legend is rolling out a huge number of scale-sized Formula 1 cars this year.$269.99 at There've been many Lego racing sets over the years, including a partnership with Ferrari that produced a scale model of the F310 F1 car back in 1998. More recently, the Speed Champions series brought everything from Mustangs to Countachs to Lego's Minifig scale, complete with steely-eyed little drivers. The new Speed Champions series of F1 cars includes scale models from all 10 teams, including the Red Bull RB20, Ferrari SF-24, Aston Martin AMR24, Mercedes-AMG W15, and even cars from Haas and Alpine. These are really fun sets for the budding F1 enthusiast, built for play rather than display, and with fun little details.$229.99 at For the adult Lego fan, there are currently two new sets in the range at the 1:8 scale: the Ferrari SF-24 and the Red Bull RB20. Both are under Lego's Technic line and include built-in features like functional steering and suspension, working DRS, and even a two-speed gearbox. It's a display model you build yourself, marveling at how Lego's designers manage to turn little plastic bricks into a working F1 power unit with moving pistons. Also worth a mention, though not part of the new release, are the two Icons display sets featuring Ayrton Senna's MP4/4 and Nigel Mansell's Williams FW14B. Look! Little Lego minifig Mansell moustache! Gotta have that for the bookshelf. Beyond the sets, Lego will also be present at 13 races throughout this year's calendar, offering young fans the chance to build at the track. There's also a virtual component, where kids can log on to practice their own racing skills or learn about the F1 teams through the eyes of Lego world. It's kind of like Lego Star Wars, but for Formula 1. This partnership leverages two of the most well-known brands on the planet, and grows both of them. Lego gets to appeal to F1 fans both young and old, and F1 gets to open even more access to fans who might be new to the sport. There are more sets coming in the pipeline, but right now, if you want to play out this season's racing between Red Bull, McLaren, and Ferrari at the Minifig level on your desk, it's just a couple of clicks away. You Might Also Like Car and Driver's 10 Best Cars through the Decades How to Buy or Lease a New Car Lightning Lap Legends: Chevrolet Camaro vs. Ford Mustang!
Gulf Business
12-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Business
Insights: The AI-powered future of sport and fan engagement
Image: Supplied Sports have a unique power to unite people across cultures, creating shared moments of excitement and pride. Nowhere is this more evident than in global events like Formula 1, where technology has increasingly redefined how fans interact with the sport. Over the decades, sports have evolved from grainy black-and-white broadcasts to today's high-definition streams, immersive virtual reality experiences, and advanced analytics that allow fans to engage with their favourite events in unprecedented ways. This fusion of sports and technology has deepened our connection to the games, transforming them into experiences that are accessible, interactive, and endlessly engaging. The GCC: A hub for sports innovation This evolution of sports and technology continues to reshape fan experiences, especially in tech-savvy regions like the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Recently, Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in esports, a rapidly growing sector in digital entertainment. The country's Esports World Cup (EWC) hosting has positioned it as a global hub for e-sports. The UAE has emerged as a leader in traditional sports engagement, with 89 per cent of its population regularly following sports across various media. This high engagement is supported by substantial investments in sports infrastructure and technology, which have positioned the UAE as a focal point for sports and entertainment. Dubai alone hosts over 400 academies, including partnerships with renowned names like Real Madrid and Manchester City, showcasing the country's commitment to nurturing sports talent. The UAE has also become a major destination for The annual F1 event has become a global sports and entertainment calendar highlight, attracting top athletes and world-class acts and drawing audiences from the region and beyond. BARCELONA, SPAIN – JUNE 23: Charles Leclerc, Ferrari SF-24 during the F1 Grand Prix of Spain at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on June 23, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Simon Galloway/LAT Images) The game-changer in sports: AI's expanding role Artificial intelligence is transforming the sports landscape in the GCC, bringing fans closer to the action and elevating the experience in previously unimaginable ways. AI is reshaping how fans engage with sports across the region by delivering personalised experiences, real-time updates, and immersive virtual or augmented reality features. Intelligent stadiums and digital arenas enhance this connection, creating interactive environments that make in-person attendance more engaging and enjoyable. Beyond fan engagement, AI is also advancing athletic performance and sports management. From AI-driven analytics that provide coaches with precise, data-supported insights for training to wearable technologies that aid in injury prevention, AI ensures that athletes can reach and sustain their peak performance levels. In addition, gamification powered by AI transforms spectators into active participants through fantasy sports and in-stadium gaming, turning passive watching into an immersive, participative experience. As we look to the future, AI is set to redefine sports as we know it. From smart stadiums to immersive VR experiences, AI transforms every aspect of playing, watching, and engaging with sports. Imagine holographic players in your living room or AI-driven insights rivalling human coaches. The future of sports promises fans unprecedented access, athletes performing at their peak, and a new era of innovation. So get ready — the AI-powered sports revolution is here, and it's just getting started. The writer is the CBO and CEO for New Markets at
