Ferrari’s Technical Gamble, Driver Market Shake-ups, and the Road to 2026: A Midseason F1 Analysis

As the 2025 Formula 1 season begins to take shape amid a turbulent driver market and sweeping regulation changes on the horizon, the sport finds itself at a critical inflection point. From Ferrari’s technical overhaul to Red Bull’s driver dilemmas and the increasingly intriguing 2026 rule shift, there is no shortage of drama on and off the track. Here’s a breakdown of the latest developments and what they could mean moving forward.

Ferrari’s Rear Suspension Overhaul and Power Steering Woes

Ferrari is set to introduce a significant rear suspension upgrade at the Belgian Grand Prix following a private test at Mugello. While visually subtle, the modification reportedly improves the car’s ability to absorb vibrations and maintain stable ride height — a factor that has previously forced Ferrari to run a compromised setup due to plank wear limits.

This adjustment could help the Scuderia run the car lower to the ground without risking disqualification — a critical performance advantage. The test data suggests a lap-time gain of about a tenth of a second, which, while modest on paper, could prove crucial in a tightly contested midfield battle.

However, Ferrari’s issues don’t stop with the rear suspension. A power steering issue has plagued the team, particularly in Q3 sessions when cars are on the edge of performance. Charles Leclerc has hinted at steering inconsistencies, and now there’s speculation that a fundamental misstep occurred when Ferrari leaned towards Carlos Sainz’s steering feedback rather than Leclerc’s — despite knowing Sainz was set to leave for 2025.

Even Lewis Hamilton, who will join Ferrari next season, reportedly criticized the steering system after initial tests, asking if the car was broken due to its feel. While not race-ending, this issue appears to be robbing Ferrari of tenths during crucial qualifying moments, and a mid-season fix could prove vital in turning their campaign around.

The Red Bull-Honda-Yuki Tsunoda Triangle

Over at Red Bull, the future of Yuki Tsunoda remains uncertain. Once a project backed heavily by Honda, Tsunoda’s position at Red Bull’s sister team, RB (formerly AlphaTauri), appears increasingly precarious as the Honda partnership winds down at the end of 2024.

Insiders reveal that Honda had to pressure Red Bull into keeping Tsunoda in a competitive seat — reportedly over concerns about rookie Liam Lawson’s mental resilience. But with Red Bull’s Honda collaboration ending and the brand aligning with Aston Martin for 2026, Tsunoda’s future in F1 may be hanging by a thread. A move to Aston Martin seems unlikely due to Fernando Alonso’s tenure and Lawrence Stroll’s stake in his son’s seat. Tsunoda may be left searching elsewhere, with whispers about Cadillac or even an exit from the sport entirely.

Driver Market Speculation: Verstappen, Russell, and the Rising Stars

Speculation continues to swirl around a potential Max Verstappen move to Mercedes in 2026. Mercedes, under pressure from both internal stakeholders and their customer team McLaren (who are outperforming them with the same engine), appear keen to make a blockbuster signing to spearhead their next-generation car project.

If Verstappen were to make the jump, it would set off a domino effect: What happens to George Russell? Could Carlos Sainz return to Red Bull? Would Alex Albon or Oscar Piastri be viable options? Red Bull would be left trying to squeeze five drivers into four seats — an impossible task that could leave the likes of Tsunoda out in the cold.

Young talents like Ollie Bearman, who impressed during his Ferrari stand-in role at the Saudi Arabian GP, are also on the radar. With Hamilton potentially moving on in a couple of years, Bearman could be Ferrari’s next long-term prospect.

Meanwhile, Jack Doohan may be quietly re-emerging as a Cadillac candidate, despite a difficult stint with Alpine. In the chaos of the midfield, a reset year like Sergio Perez once had could do wonders for Doohan’s career.

2026: The End of Ground Effect?

Perhaps the most seismic development in the F1 world isn’t driver-related but technical. Reports suggest that for 2026, Formula 1 will abandon ground effect as the central aerodynamic philosophy. The upcoming cars will feature flat floors, with Venturi tunnels banned outright. The ground effect era that began with the 2022 regulations — aimed at reducing dirty air and encouraging closer racing — appears to have failed to deliver on all fronts.

If true, the implications are huge:

Cars will be slower, but potentially better at racing wheel-to-wheel.

Teams like Mercedes, who have struggled with ground-effect concepts, could benefit enormously.

This change may play into the hands of drivers like Hamilton, who have reportedly never fully adapted to the demands of ground effect machinery.

The potential failure of this current era also casts a shadow on the massive investments teams made post-2022. A return to more traditional setups will require a rethink of design philosophies across the grid.

Ferrari’s Structural Shift and Internal Politics

Amidst all this, Ferrari may be restructuring its leadership team once again. Reports suggest they are considering an executive appointment to bridge the gap between team principal Fred Vasseur and top brass like Benedetto Vigna and John Elkann.

While potentially positive in terms of communication, the move also raises red flags. Would a new middleman solve Ferrari’s issues, or would giving Vasseur more autonomy have been the better route? Historically, Ferrari’s bloated decision-making structure has been part of its downfall — and adding more voices to the mix may risk complicating things further.

With Loïc Serra playing a major role in the 2024 technical direction and being pivotal in Hamilton’s move, the stakes are high. The success or failure of the new rear suspension could determine not just Ferrari’s season but also internal job security.

Final Thoughts

Formula 1 is in flux. The Ferrari upgrades could bring them back into contention, but the real turning point might be 2026 — a season that promises to redefine technical standards and driver dynamics alike.

Will Mercedes dominate again with a new formula and Verstappen at the wheel? Will Ferrari resolve its internal contradictions and finally deliver for Leclerc and Hamilton? And what of young talents like Bearman, Doohan, and the ever-volatile Yuki Tsunoda?

As ever in F1, the only certainty is change. The second half of 2025, and the build-up to 2026, may prove to be one of the most transformative periods in the sport’s modern history.

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Ferrari’s Last Shot? Hamilton’s Demands and a Game-Changing Upgrade at Spa

The stakes are sky-high as Ferrari prepares to unleash a potentially transformative rear suspension upgrade at the iconic Spa-Francorchamps. As the 2025 Formula 1 season spirals into disappointment, the Maranello camp is buzzing with both desperation and defiance. Meanwhile, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton is drawing a line in the sand, demanding a 2026 car built to his style—or else. What unfolds next could reshape not just Ferrari’s future, but the entire F1 competitive landscape.

The 2025 Flop: A Season on the Brink

After a promising run in 2024 that saw Ferrari finishing as runner-up in the Constructors’ Championship, expectations were sky-high for 2025. Instead, the SF-25 has turned out to be a major letdown. Charles Leclerc may have salvaged a few podiums, but the team remains winless, far behind a resurgent McLaren that has dominated with four podiums. Leclerc has outperformed Hamilton significantly, while Lewis languishes in sixth place, trailing McLaren’s Oscar Piastri by a whopping 127 points.

Public sentiment has shifted quickly. X (formerly Twitter) and other social platforms are filled with disillusioned fans, calling out Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur for bold title-winning promises that have disintegrated into strategic blunders and underwhelming performances. The Silverstone Grand Prix was a turning point in the narrative, where Sauber’s Nico Hülkenberg outshone both Ferraris. The strategy failures, especially the infamous “lift and coast” calls, became emblematic of Ferrari’s inability to execute.

Mugello Test: Hope or Hype?

This week, Ferrari quietly tested a new rear suspension at Mugello under the guise of a filming day. According to reports from Auto Motor und Sport and The Race, the upgrade modifies the geometry of the rear suspension—specifically lowering the front attachment of the upper triangle. This change is engineered to keep the car’s floor more stable, enhancing the ground-effect aerodynamics and allowing for a flatter, more downforce-efficient ride.

Why does this matter? The SF-25 has struggled with ride height and balance, a flaw highlighted by their disqualification in China over ride height irregularities. A more stable rear could allow Ferrari to lower the car, increase downforce, and move away from the extreme setups that have shaken Hamilton’s confidence and compromised performance.

The Hamilton Dilemma

Lewis Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari was headline-grabbing, but the honeymoon is over. Frustrated with the SF-25’s unresponsiveness, Hamilton publicly declared: “This car is not my style. I need my DNA in the 2026 design.” His comments signal more than dissatisfaction—they hint at a looming internal conflict over Ferrari’s design philosophy for the next regulation era.

Hamilton’s strength has always been extracting peak performance from cars engineered around his feedback—a formula that yielded six titles with Mercedes. But at Ferrari, the car seems more attuned to Leclerc’s preferences. This brewing conflict raises the specter of a design tug-of-war for 2026, especially as F1 prepares to usher in a new era featuring 50% electric power units and Active Aero systems.

Sky Sports and Pro Motorsport analysts have echoed these concerns. While Jenson Button believes the Mugello upgrade could close the performance gap, Naomi Schiff warns that Hamilton’s assertiveness could fracture team cohesion at a critical time.

Strategy, Politics, and Pressure

Internally, Ferrari faces a crucible of conflicting goals: rescue the 2025 season, design a championship-winning 2026 car, and manage two alpha drivers with diverging needs. Team Principal Fred Vasseur walks a tightrope, trying to maintain harmony while balancing developmental priorities. Missteps here could echo the failures of past years, where inter-driver rivalries and unclear leadership torpedoed Ferrari’s title chances.

Externally, Spa-Francorchamps is shaping up to be a make-or-break weekend. The Belgian Grand Prix’s high-speed nature will stress test the new suspension like no other track. If Ferrari’s upgrade works, they could reclaim podium positions and possibly even mount a late-season charge. But if it fails? The SF-25 risks being permanently benched in favor of an early shift toward 2026 development.

2026: The Bigger Picture

The sport’s upcoming regulatory overhaul cannot be overstated. F1’s 2026 cars will be radically different—with 50% electric engines, new aerodynamic requirements, and reduced fuel flow. These changes present a clean slate for teams, but also a high-risk opportunity.

For Ferrari, it’s a chance to rebuild with Hamilton’s input from the ground up. But it also carries the danger of designing a car that pleases neither driver if internal politics override technical coherence.

Leclerc’s rising status within the team—and his mastery of the current platform—clashes with Hamilton’s desire to imprint his championship DNA. This dynamic creates a fragile alliance. If not managed well, it could tear apart Ferrari’s 2026 ambitions before the season even begins.

Fan Reactions and Media Buzz

The buzz on F1 forums and social media is intense. Fans are split between hope and skepticism. Some hail the Mugello test as a bold and necessary gamble, a clever workaround using a filming day to gain track data. Others see it as a desperate move—a band-aid on a car that was flawed from the drawing board.

Commentary from respected analysts has added fuel to the fire. Some believe Spa could be the turning point that keeps Ferrari’s 2025 season alive. Others warn that if this upgrade flops, Ferrari should shift focus entirely to 2026 and stop wasting resources on a dead-end chassis.

Conclusion: All or Nothing

Ferrari stands at a crossroads. The rear suspension upgrade offers a sliver of hope in a season fast slipping into mediocrity. But the deeper storyline is about more than just hardware—it’s about leadership, direction, and identity.

Can Ferrari deliver a competitive car that satisfies both Leclerc and Hamilton? Can they salvage something meaningful from 2025, or is the real game behind the scenes—preparing for a 2026 comeback led by one of the sport’s most decorated drivers?

This weekend at Spa may not decide a championship, but it could decide Ferrari’s future.

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Max Verstappen to Mercedes in 2026: A Power Shift That Could Reshape Formula 1 Forever

In what is being described as one of the most seismic developments in recent Formula 1 history, Max Verstappen is reportedly set to join Mercedes in 2026 — and this time, it’s not just a rumor. Backed by insider reports, team leaks, and even comments from F1 veteran Ralf Schumacher, this deal has reportedly been approved at the highest level — by none other than Ola Källenius, the CEO of Mercedes-Benz.

This isn’t just another driver transfer. It’s a tectonic shift in the F1 power structure, with implications far beyond the racetrack. Behind the polished PR statements and tight-lipped team bosses lies a story of boardroom politics, shattered alliances, and strategic warfare — one that could completely reset the F1 grid when the new regulations hit in 2026.

A Boardroom-Level Move, Not Just Paddock Talk

For months, speculation about Verstappen’s exit from Red Bull swirled but was quickly dismissed by many due to his long-term contract, which runs through 2028. Red Bull’s dominance, coupled with a seemingly secure internal structure, made any departure look improbable.

But sources now suggest that this isn’t Toto Wolff floating ideas behind closed doors — it’s a full-blown, boardroom-approved campaign from Mercedes. Ola Källenius reportedly greenlit the effort, giving Mercedes the financial and strategic backing to pursue Verstappen with full force. This level of corporate endorsement makes the move real. It’s not speculative — it’s operational.

And that changes everything.

Red Bull’s Civil War: The Fallout Begins

While Mercedes prepared their strategic play, Red Bull was imploding from within. Tensions within the team, long rumored to be simmering beneath the surface, boiled over at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

According to Ralf Schumacher, there was a public and fiery confrontation between him and Jos Verstappen, Max’s father. The clash was loud, emotional, and deeply personal. Within days, a key female figure in Red Bull — widely speculated to be team advisor Helmut Marko’s replacement or another high-level exec — was dismissed quietly, without public explanation. No statements, no press conferences. Just gone.

The message was clear: Red Bull’s internal unity had shattered. And Verstappen, at the center of it all, began looking for the exit.

Why Mercedes, Why Now?

Mercedes hasn’t had the dominance it once enjoyed in the turbo-hybrid era. With Lewis Hamilton departing for Ferrari in 2025, the team needed not just a driver, but a statement. Verstappen is that statement.

He’s the most dominant force in modern F1, a driver who can rebuild dynasties and redefine legacies. With the 2026 regulations offering a reset in car performance and power unit design, Mercedes saw the opportunity to begin a new chapter — not with Russell as their lead, but with Verstappen as their cornerstone.

Reports indicate Mercedes could offload George Russell, or alternatively, loan their rising star Kimi Antonelli to Alpine. This would buy Antonelli valuable F1 experience while keeping the Mercedes-Verstappen axis clean and frictionless. It’s a politically savvy move that offers both immediate performance and long-term security.

What Happens Next at Red Bull?

With Verstappen’s potential exit looming, Red Bull is facing its biggest crisis since entering Formula 1. Adrian Newey, the engineering mastermind behind their success, is already on his way out. Christian Horner’s leadership remains controversial and divisive. And now, their talisman driver appears to be walking out the door.

The big question: Who replaces Verstappen? Carlos Sainz is still without a 2025 seat. Daniel Ricciardo’s performances have been underwhelming. And Yuki Tsunoda, while promising, is not yet championship material. Red Bull may be staring at a rebuilding phase — something that hasn’t happened since the Vettel era ended.

More importantly, how does the team maintain its dominance without the engine of their success? Verstappen didn’t just win; he crushed the field. Red Bull may have the machinery, but without the driver and the internal cohesion, they risk falling back into the midfield.

The 2026 Reset: A New F1 Era

The timing of this move is no accident. In 2026, Formula 1 introduces a sweeping new set of regulations, particularly around power units and sustainability. Teams that adapt early — and correctly — will hold the advantage for years to come.

Mercedes is betting that Verstappen is the driver who can lead them through this transition. With a revamped car, a fresh team structure, and the hunger to return to winning ways, they’re not just looking to compete — they’re planning to dominate.

If Verstappen joins Mercedes, the grid dynamics will shift dramatically. Ferrari with Hamilton. Mercedes with Verstappen. McLaren with Norris and Piastri. Alpine with Antonelli. Suddenly, the F1 landscape becomes a strategic chessboard, and every team must respond.

Legacy Over Loyalty

At its core, this isn’t just a contract negotiation. It’s about legacy.

Verstappen has conquered Red Bull. He’s won world titles, broken records, and become the face of the sport. But true greatness, in the Schumacher or Hamilton mold, requires domination across teams and eras. Mercedes offers that stage — a team in need of a savior, a car in need of a leader, and a future in need of a star.

By leaving Red Bull, Verstappen sacrifices loyalty for legacy. And if he succeeds at Mercedes, he’ll join the rare pantheon of drivers who weren’t just great — they defined generations.

Final Thoughts: The Shockwave Ahead

If this deal is finalized — and all signs suggest it’s already in motion — the entire Formula 1 world will feel the impact. Sponsorships, junior driver programs, technical partnerships, and team strategies will all shift to accommodate this power move.

For fans, it signals a thrilling new chapter. For teams, it’s a wake-up call. And for Verstappen, it’s the boldest move of his career.

2026 isn’t just a regulation reset. It’s a political, strategic, and competitive reset. And Max Verstappen may be the spark that sets it all off.

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Christian Horner and Alpine: A New Chapter in Formula 1?

Christian Horner, one of Formula 1’s most accomplished team principals, is now reportedly considering a seismic shift in his career—one that might see him transitioning from the pit wall to the boardroom. Following his controversial exit from Red Bull Racing, Horner has been linked with a bold new venture: acquiring a stake in the Alpine F1 Team. If the speculation is true, it could mark the beginning of one of the sport’s most intriguing rebuild stories in recent years.

The Red Bull Departure: A Turning Point

Christian Horner’s two-decade tenure with Red Bull Racing was nothing short of legendary. Under his leadership, the team secured six Constructors’ Championships and eight Drivers’ titles, elevating Red Bull to elite status in Formula 1. But behind closed doors, things unraveled. Allegations brought against him by a female employee—although ultimately dismissed—sparked internal turmoil that Red Bull couldn’t ignore. Despite being cleared of wrongdoing, Horner was sacked, a move that stunned the F1 community.

His abrupt departure has left many wondering what’s next. And if reports are accurate, Horner isn’t interested in simply taking another team principal role—he may be eyeing team ownership.

Why Alpine?

The Alpine F1 Team—formerly Renault—is struggling. They currently sit last in the Constructors’ Championship, with all their points in the 2025 season scored by Pierre Gasly. Their performance slump comes despite recent high-profile investments, including backing from Hollywood celebrities and partnerships with major sponsors. It’s a team with history, infrastructure, and ambition—but not results.

Enter Christian Horner.

Alpine presents a unique opportunity: a team in need of visionary leadership, financial backing, and a long-term project. The team is reportedly open to selling a significant stake, potentially up to 20%, with a rumored buy-in price of around £298 million. Horner, with potentially £50 million in severance from Red Bull and a network of well-placed allies, could be the perfect investor and leader to help rebuild the squad from the ground up.

A Relationship with Flavio Briatore

One of the key catalysts in this potential deal is Flavio Briatore, the controversial former team boss and current Alpine advisor. Briatore and Horner reportedly share a close relationship, and Briatore is said to have contacted Horner shortly after his dismissal from Red Bull. Their shared ambitions and experience in F1 could form the backbone of a new leadership structure at Alpine—one driven by big vision and bolder moves.

If Horner does come on board, it likely won’t be just as a passive investor. Whether he takes on a team principal role or opts to lead Alpine from a strategic, executive position, his influence would be undeniable.

The Technical and Financial Landscape

Alpine has already made several strategic changes aimed at climbing up the F1 hierarchy. They’ve partnered with Mercedes for power unit supplies—an interesting pivot that might position them well for the 2026 regulation changes. With Ferrari and Honda also pushing hard in the new era, Alpine will need to leverage every advantage they can get. The addition of Horner, with his intimate knowledge of what makes a championship team tick, could be the competitive edge they need.

Moreover, Alpine’s recent financial boost from celebrity investors shows that the team is actively building a war chest for future development. With fresh cash, a technical reset, and a leadership shake-up, they’re primed for a potential renaissance.

The Pierre Gasly Dilemma

But not all elements fit neatly into the puzzle. Pierre Gasly, Alpine’s current top driver and sole points scorer, has a complicated history with Horner. Gasly was promoted to Red Bull in 2019 under Horner’s management, only to be demoted after just 13 races. The relationship soured, especially after a humiliating incident where Max Verstappen lapped him in Hungary. Though Gasly has since proven his worth at AlphaTauri and now Alpine, tensions may still linger.

If Horner were to join Alpine in any capacity, one of the earliest challenges could be rebuilding trust with Gasly. That said, if both parties can move past old wounds, the collaboration might work—especially given Gasly’s clear potential and Alpine’s current need for stability.

Other Opportunities on the Table?

While Alpine seems like the most likely destination for Horner, other teams have been rumored to express interest. Ferrari, for instance, is reportedly skeptical. Though they admire Horner’s resume, they are hesitant to take on the media frenzy and potential drama that might follow him post-Red Bull. With internal restructuring already underway in Maranello, adding Horner to the mix might be too risky.

Aston Martin is another possibility, but Adrian Newey—longtime technical guru and former ally turned rival—might block any such move. Their strained relationship reportedly contributed to Newey’s departure from Red Bull, and it’s unlikely he would endorse Horner’s entry into Lawrence Stroll’s ambitious Silverstone project.

A Legacy Rewritten?

More than just a career move, joining Alpine could be Horner’s opportunity to redefine his legacy. The controversy surrounding his Red Bull exit, regardless of legal outcomes, has left a blemish on his otherwise stellar career. Alpine, with its rich history and current struggles, offers the perfect canvas for a comeback story.

If Horner can guide the team from the bottom of the standings to consistent podium finishes—or even championship contention—it would be a testament to his leadership, resilience, and racing intellect.

Final Thoughts: The Right Man for the Right Job?

So, is Alpine better off with Christian Horner?

From a purely performance and leadership perspective, absolutely. Horner has proven he can build a winning culture and sustain it over a decade and a half. Alpine desperately needs that kind of stability and vision. The potential obstacles—financial, political, and personal—are real. But so is the upside.

The bigger question may be: does Alpine have the courage to take the gamble?

Formula 1 is a sport built on calculated risks. And if they decide to roll the dice on Christian Horner, the Endstone-based team might just be laying the foundation for one of the sport’s most exciting comebacks in recent memory.

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The teenage Brit was born and raised in Surrey

RED BULL are yet to make a decision on Yuki Tsunoda’s future at the team despite reports he is heading for the exit door.

Four-time world champion Max Verstappen could also leave himself, with Red Bull desperate for their prized asset to turn down growing interest from Mercedes.

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Red Bull will reportedly terminate Yuki Tsunoda’s contract next season

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Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko is back in charge of driver line-ups after Christian Horner’s sacking
Tsunoda’s camp have shutdown rumours that they have spoken to Aston Martin about a potential move.

The Japanese driver, who still has a contract with Red Bull, brutally replaced Liam Lawson to partner Verstappen just two races into the current season in March.

The rumour mill said it was former team principal Christian Horner, sacked after 20 years in charge this month, who wanted Lawson out so quickly in March.

Ever since Daniel Ricciardo left Red Bull at the end of 2018, drivers have rarely lasted more than a season with the team, with upgrade and championship focus always on Verstappen.

Tsunoda’s has endured a miserable season, scoring scrappy points on just three Grand Prix weekends, contributing just seven of the teams 172 total at the halfway point in the campaign.

The Japanese star sits 17th in the drivers standings, is the lowest ranked non-rookie and has gone five rounds without scoring a single point.

Tsunoda’s qualifying results have disappointed in particular, after he escaped a near-death crash in Q1 at Imola, before managing P12 in Monaco, P20 in Spain, P11 in Canada, P18 in Austria and P12 at Silverstone.

In contrast, Verstappen, 27, secured his fourth pole of the season at Silverstone, but finished fifth in the race behind Lewis Hamilton after skidding off the track in the rain.

With advisor Helmut Marko back in charge of driver line-ups after Horner’s shock dismissal, Red Bull are likely to look inward to their Racing Bulls junior team if they were to need a next F1 star.

One option is going back to Lawson, who has picked himself back up after being removed from his Red Bull seat, sitting above Tsunoda in the drivers standings.

But Marko, 82, is reportedly pushing for a new face and wants to promote 20-year-old rookie Isack Hadjar from Racing Bulls next season.

Hadjar entered this season as something of a wildcard after his seat came about after the late decision to sack Sergio Perez caused an opening at Racing Bulls.

But the decision to call him up now looks like a masterstroke, as the French-Algerian youngster sits just outside the top 10 in the drivers standings – with one fewer point than Lawson and Tsunoda COMBINED.

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Racing Bulls star Isack Hadjar is the favourite to replace Tsunoda

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British F2 driver Arvid Lindblad is also being considered for the second Red Bull seat
But teenage Brit Arvid Lindblad is also being considered to step up from Formula Two after completing his first free practice session at the British Grand Prix on July 6.

The 17-year-old has also been undergoing extensive TPC outings behind the scenes as he prepares to follow in Kimi Antonelli’s footsteps, speedily climbing up the feeder series ladder.

Lindblad was born in 2007 and raised in Surrey to his Swedish motorcross racing father and Indian mother.

Meanwhile, Tsunoda will be the latest in a long line of Red Bull second-seat victims, following in the footsteps of Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, Sergio Perez and Lawson.

The F1 season gets back underway in Belgium on July 27, with Verstappen allegedly already having met up with Mercedes chief Toto Wolff while on holiday in Sardinia.

The BBC announced earlier this week that presenter John Torode would not have his MasterChef contract renewed following an upheld complaint over alleged racist language

Former MasterChef judge John Torode was sacked from the BBC show for allegedly using the N-word twice. It was announced this week that his contract would not be renewed following an upheld complaint.

Production company Banijay said on Tuesday that an investigation into his co-star Gregg Wallace’s behaviour by firm Lewis Silkin had “substantiated an accusation of highly offensive racist language against” John, 59. John however said in a statement: “I have no recollection of what I’m accused of.”

It’s now been suggested that John, who had co-hosted the cooking show since 2005, used the N-word twice. John is said to vehemently deny ever using the racial slur. Earlier this week John came forward as the person alleged to have used racist language, after the allegation was upheld in a report into John’s colleague Gregg Wallace’s behaviour.

John said he had no memory of making the comment and denies it ever happened. Later, Richard Osman spoke out to claim the ex MasterChef host used the ‘worst racial slur there is’. And now it’s been reported Torode allegedly used the N-word twice.

It was announced recently that John Torode won’t have his contract for MasterChef renewed(Image: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)

The Sun reports that he repeated lyrics, containing the N-word, from Kanye West’s song Gold Digger at an after-work ­gathering six or seven years ago. He’s then said to have used the word again whilst speaking to a member of the MasterChef production team.

John allegedly used the word a second time when speaking to a member of the production team, described as a “pal” who reportedly didn’t take offence. According to the outlet, the person who raised the complaint on that occasion is said to have overheard the conversation. His friend reportedly thought John used the slur as an “example” and “apologised afterwards”.

The publication adds that it’s been told that John vehemently denies ever using the N-word, whether that be in song lyrics or otherwise. A source said that he’s “utterly devastated” and “just wants to clear his name” amid the scandal.

It was announced this week that John Torode (right), pictured with his wife Lisa Faulkner (left), won’t have his MasterChef contract renewed(Image: Getty Images)

A source told the outlet that “one of the allegations” is that he used the N-word while repeating Gold Digger during a gathering with some colleagues when filming had concluded. They said: “John is adamant he would never have used the N-word and only knows the radio version of the song which says, ‘Now I ain’t sayin’ she a gold digger, but she ain’t messin’ with no broke, broke’.”

The source, who said that he only knows the clean version of the song, claimed that the complainant “didn’t say anything” at the time and that John found out that the issue had been raised a few weeks ago. They added that he doesn’t “recall it” and said: “He insists he would never have repeated the N-word in those lyrics because he only knows the radio edit of that song.”

Addressing the second allegation, a source told the Sun that he did not recall using the N-word, saying that he is “adamant” that he would “never” use that word in a conversation. They claim that someone who “overheard it” complained, not the person he’s alleged to have said it to, whom he’s said to have been “close” to whilst working together.

The source said: “Even the person who John was supposedly having the overheard conversation with said he had mentioned the word in reference and apologised straight away.” They added that he John “cannot recall” the alleged conversation and “would never” use the racial slur in question.

They said that he “knows it is unacceptable”. The source further suggested to the outlet that during a meeting over the complaint John was in “disbelief” because the presenter “insisted” that he would “never” had used the N-word.

A source also said that John “abhors” that kind of language and doesn’t recall “reciting a racist slur in a lyric” or “directing one” to a colleague at work that he “considered a friend”. They said that he is “devastated” by the situation.

It comes following a complaint against John over alleged racist language that was upheld amid an investigation into the behaviour of his co-star Gregg Wallace(Image: SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Earlier this week, the BBC said: “John Torode has identified himself as having an upheld allegation of using racist language against him. This allegation, which involves an extremely offensive racist term being used in the workplace, was investigated and substantiated by the independent investigation led by the law firm, Lewis Silkin. John Torode denies the allegation.

“He has stated he has no recollection of the alleged incident and does not believe that it happened. He also says that any racial language is wholly unacceptable in any environment. The BBC takes this upheld finding extremely seriously. We will not tolerate racist language of any kind and, as we have already said, we told Banijay UK, the makers of MasterChef, that action must be taken. John Torode’s contract on MasterChef will not be renewed.”

Shortly after, John posted in a statement: “Although I haven’t heard from anyone at the BBC or Banijay – I am seeing and reading that I’ve been ‘sacked’ from MasterChef and I repeat that I have no recollection of what I’m accused of. The enquiry could not even state the date or year of when I am meant to have said something wrong.

“I’d hoped that I’d have some say in my exit from a show I’ve worked on since its relaunch in 2005, but events in last few days seem to have prevented that. Over the past few months, I have been considering my life and the shape of it now and in the future.

“Celebrity MasterChef, which I recently filmed with Grace Dent along with two fantastic Christmas specials will be my last. Personally, I have loved every minute working on MasterChef, but it’s time to pass the cutlery to someone else. For whoever takes over, love it as I have.

“I will watch fondly from afar as I now focus on the many other exciting projects that I have been working towards. My tummy will be grateful for a rest after 20 years of eating, but what a joy it has been. Life is everchanging and ever moving & sometimes personal happiness and fulfilment lay elsewhere. Thank you for the many years of MasterChef.”

As previously reported, production company Banijay said: “The legal team at Lewis Silkin that investigated the allegations relating to Gregg Wallace also substantiated an accusation of highly offensive racist language against John Torode which occurred in 2018. This matter has been formally discussed with John Torode by Banijay UK, and whilst we note that John says he does not recall the incident, Lewis Silkin have upheld the very serious complaint. Banijay UK and the BBC are agreed that we will not renew his contract on MasterChef.”

Prior to the news of his departure, John had confirmed that he was the subject of an upheld complaint. He said: “For the sake of transparency I confirm that I am the individual who is alleged to have used racial language on one occasion.

“The allegation is that I did so sometime in 2018 or 2019, in a social situation, and that the person I was speaking with did not believe that it was intended in a malicious way and that I apologised immediately afterwards.

“I have absolutely no recollection of any of this, and I do not believe that it happened. However, I want to be clear that I’ve always had the view that any racial language is wholly unacceptable in any environment. I’m shocked and saddened by the allegation as I would never wish to cause anyone any offence.”

Both the Duchess and Samantha’s legal teams will be given 15 minutes each to present their argument to the presiding judge at the hearing in Jacksonville, Florida

The new court date is the latest update in the long-running legal saga between Meghan and her half-sister Samantha (Image: Emma Grede/Youtube)

The Duchess of Sussex is set to face a new court hearing as her half-sister tries again to sue her for defamation.

Meghan Markle’s lawyers have been ordered to appear in person at the United States Courthouse in Jacksonville, Florida, on September 9 to argue against Samantha’s case, which is an appeal after her original case was dismissed. The case could prove an unwelcome distraction for Prince Harry’s wife, who is trying to build a lifestyle brand and podcast success. A legal document has been sent to both Meghan and Samantha’s lawyers by a clerk at the US Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit,

Samantha and Meghan pictured together during happier times when the Duchess was aged 12(Image: Copyright unknown)

The document says: “The Court has determined that the cases listed on the attached calendar are to be orally argued. Counsel for each party must present oral argument unless excused by the Court for good cause shown.”

The document adds both sides will be given 15 minutes each to present their argument to the presiding judge, who was not named.

Samantha, 60, originally launched a defamation case against Meghan, 43, nearly four years ago, claiming her reputation had been damaged by her sibling in her and Harry’s tell-all interview with Oprah in 2021.

She challenged Meghan’s claims that she “grew up as an only child” and didn’t have much of a relationship with her – alleging it hurt the sales of her book, The Diary Of Princess Pushy’s Sister Part 1.

Samantha also claimed she was “forced to move residences, retract from public outings” and “faced realistic death threats” as a result of the royal’s Netflix documentary, according to a previous court filing.

Samantha believes Meghan defamed her in her interview with Oprah in 2021(Image: ITV)

And she accused Meghan of discrediting her by suggesting she did not know her growing up, alleging it hurt her personal and professional reputation and caused her to “face relentless torment online”.

The $75,000 (£55,900) claim was rejected by a judge, who ruled public statements by Meghan were “substantially true”. But Samantha, launched an appeal in April last year claiming the judge failed to take into account implied defamation created by omitting facts.

Samantha and Meghan share the same dad, Thomas Markle Sr, but have different mums.

Strictly Come Dancing professional Amy Dowden has opened up to Lorraine Kelly about her ‘really tough’ journey after finishing treatment for stage three breast cancer

Strictly’s Amy Dowden says she thinks about her breast cancer coming back ‘most days'(Image: ITV)

Strictly Come Dancing favourite Amy Dowden received the heart-wrenching diagnosis of stage three breast cancer back in 2023. Following a mastectomy and chemotherapy, the cherished BBC personality was informed last year that her body showed no evidence of the disease, with her later sharing the news with fans.

However, the talented professional dancer shared with her Instagram fans at the time that she has to wait five more years before receiving the definitive ‘all-clear on the cancer’. Now, she has candidly revealed she thinks about her cancer returning ‘most of the time’.

This week, the Strictly sensation disclosed her involvement in the Beyond the Bell film, a collaborative effort with NovartisUK. The Keep Ahead campaign delves into the emotional rollercoaster experienced after active breast cancer treatment.

Amy took to Instagram to share the film, penning a heartbreaking confession: “Like many people living with breast cancer, my journey hasn’t been straightforward.

“Even after I rang the end of treatment bell, the fear of my cancer coming back meant that I couldn’t fully celebrate.

“Breast cancer recurrence is on my mind most days, and I am still learning how to navigate these feelings and everything about life after my diagnosis – taking it one day at a time.

“The film explores the highs and lows of life after active breast cancer treatment.How the fear of recurrence once held me back. How I’ve found the strength to take back control. How I keep moving forward one day at a time.”

Amy appeared on Lorraine on Friday morning(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)

Meanwhile, during her appearance on Friday’s episode of Lorraine, the 34-year-old dancer spoke candidly about the challenges following the celebratory bell-ringing, which marks the conclusion of cancer treatment.

She revealed: “After I rang the bell, came the longest journey of recovery, and I think people think you’re fine afterwards. But you’re really not.”, reports Wales Online.

“I still have to take medication, I still have to go back to the oncology unit once a month for an injection for at least five years. I’ve been put into menopause, I don’t know what my options are going to look like, if I’m going to be able to carry my own children.”

Amy admitted to ITV viewers that life post-treatment is ‘very tough’, but she also expressed that she feels stronger than ever, now 18 months on.

Amy admitted to ITV viewers that life post-treatment is ‘very tough'(Image: Amy Dowden Instagram)

She continued: “I would just like to say to anybody, don’t compare yourself to others. I think I forgot to be kind to myself afterwards, and I really struggled last year.

“I don’t think I really processed what happened, and I think there are so many people around you when you’re having your treatment, then all of a sudden you’re on your own straight afterwards.”

Meghan Markle’s cookery and lifestyle show With Love, Meghan, was released with much fanfare earlier this year – and figures have revealed how successful the show really was on the streaming platform

Meghan Markle released her Netflix show in March (Image: Getty Images for TIME)

The viewing figures for Meghan Markle’s Netflix show have finally been revealed in a new report by the streaming platform. With Love, Meghan was finally released in March – following a two month delay due to the California wildfires – to much fanfare.

It saw the Duchess of Sussex share cookery and hosting tips as she invited a string of pals to join her as she demonstrated her secret hacks around the kitchen. However, new data from Netflix has revealed that the show failed to break into the top 300 most-watched shows on the streaming platform in the first six months of 2025.

With Love, Meghan saw her share cookery and hosting tips(Image: JAKE ROSENBERG/NETFLIX)

Figures show that it was watched 5.3million times and in the ranking of the most watched shows, it came 383rd. The same number of people also watched the fourth series of the legal drama Suits on Netflix, which stars Meghan, in the same period.

At the top of the ranking was the hit drama Adolescence, which had 145million views, followed by the second series of Squid Game on 117million views.

It comes as the Sussexes previously signed a multimillion-pound deal with Netflix in 2020. Their first show, the controversial docuseries Harry & Meghan, which features accusations against the Royal Family, was highly successful.

But the pair have failed to replicate that success with other shows such as the sports show Polo or documentary Heart of Invictus.

Harry made a fleeting appearance in the show(Image: COURTESY OF NETFLIX)

In the eight-part show With Love, Meghan, the former Suits actress, gives hosting tips and cooks with celebrity friends, including The Office star Mindy Kaling – however, it was panned by the critics.

Harry makes just one appearance at the end of the first season’s final episode when he joins Meghan, her mother Doria Ragland and friends for an outdoor celebratory brunch.

Meghan said it “feels like a new chapter that I’m so excited that I get to share and I’ve been able to learn from all of you”, in what is likely to be seen as a nod to the restrictions she felt within the royal family.

She told People magazine that her children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, visited her on set, which she called “really special because up until then, they hadn’t seen me at work”, and spoke about she and Harry having a daily “nightcap recap”, where they discussed their day.

“My husband met me when I had (the former lifestyle website) The Tig, and I see this spark in his eye when he sees me doing the thing that I was doing when he first met me,” she said. “It’s almost like a honeymoon period again.”

Meghan is reportedly set to make millions through her Netflix show with her associated product ranges. The show itself was part of a huge deal she and Prince Harry had with Netflix, which was worth $100million.

A source said previously: “Critics can keep on slamming Meghan’s TV show, but ultimately it doesn’t matter. The second season of With Love, Meghan is already in the can, and despite all the negative press from series one, Netflix bosses know people are going to watch it. The real money to be made will be in merchandise and products.

“Everything Meghan wears sells out, and Netflix execs predict that when she releases her own line of products they too will sell out. She’s a global name and a global influence. This is just the beginning.”

At the time, viewers branded the show “out of touch”. One wrote online: “I’m not even 30 seconds into the first episode and I already know that With Love, Meghan is the FAKEST stuff ever.” Another echoed: “Six minutes of with love Meghan… ok only for richest people..so.. bye bye.” While someone else added: “All of Meghan Markle’s “recipes” can be found on Pinterest.”

However, others revealed that they were enjoying the show as one gushed: “I’m watching With Love, Meghan and it’s delightful. I will never understand the people whose entire personalities are hating her. It’s sickening.” Another agreed: “People just love to hate Meghan for no reason and are constantly putting her up against Kate. They are two different people. Let the woman live.”

BBC Radio host Rylan Clark has announced that his mother Linda Clark was rushed to hospital recently and that he will miss his next show as a result of the situation

Radio host Rylan Clark has announced that his mother Linda Clark was rushed to hospital this week just days before her birthday. He shared the news with fans earlier and revealed that he will take some time off work as a result.

Rylan, 36, said this evening that Linda, 72, “isn’t well” and that she’s been treated at a hospital in Essex, with him expressing gratitude to its “emergency team”. He told fans that he now won’t be on his BBC Radio 2 show tomorrow.

The news comes just days ahead of Linda’s birthday on Sunday. Rylan didn’t provide any further details on her hospitalisation but told his followers on on Instagram that he will keep them updated as “trooper” Linda recovers.

Rylan, who appears with Linda on Celebrity Gogglebox, shared the news in a statement on the platform earlier tonight. He began by writing in the message: “Mummy Linda isn’t well sadly so I won’t be hosting the show tomorrow.”

Rylan Clark has announced that his mother Linda Clark ended up in hospital recently

The presenter continued by telling his followers: “Thank you to the emergency team at Princess Alexandra Hospital. Especially Tanya who really looked after my mum. Will keep you updated as she’s on the mend. She’s a trooper.”

He has since shared an update on Linda. Rylan wrote in a follow-up message later this evening: “She’s doing really well thankfully. All going good. Cheers for all ur messages.”

Rylan hosts his own show on BBC Radio 2 each Saturday afternoon and his replacement for this weekend’s instalment has been revealed today. It’s been announced that Richie Anderson will cover for him on Rylan On Saturday tomorrow.

Richie, 37, is set to be joined by former X Factor contestant Diana Vickers on the show and issued a message for listeners earlier. He asked for their “help” ahead of speaking to Diana, who has just launched her Just Between Us podcast.

In a video shared on his Instagram Story, Richie confirmed that he is stepping in for Rylan. He told his followers: “I need your help. So tomorrow I’m sitting in for Rylan on Radio 2 and I’m gonna be joined in the studio by the icon Diana Vickers.”

Rylan (left) said that he will miss his BBC Radio 2 show tomorrow as Linda (right) recovers (
Image:
@rylan/instagram)
Richie requested that fans send their dilemmas, saying: “She’s got a new podcast out, relationship agony aunt, so we wanna use her advice skills as we do ‘Diana’s Dilemmas’. So we want your fun household, family, relationship dilemmas.”

The news of Linda’s hospitalisation comes just days after Rylan shared that he had “finally” got him mother to have her own Instagram account. Since her debut last week, she’s amassed more than 110,000 followers on the platform.

Announcing the news last week, Rylan wrote: “So we’ve finally done it. Linda is now on Instagram.” He added: “Bear with as she gets used to it but give her a follow if you want.” He added: “Can’t believe this is happening.”

Days later, Linda shared an update. Alongside a photo of herself, Rylan and a Celebrity Gogglebox crew, she wrote: “Thank you for 100k followers! Still don’t really know what it means but Ross is helping me. This is our lovely Gogglebox crew. Luv yas.”