Tuesday in Formula 1 featured Gabriel Bortoleto as one of the standout figures ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix. The Brazilian arrives at Spa-Francorchamps feeling confident after an eighth-place finish at Silverstone, while Red Bull and McLaren are also preparing significant updates for the weekend.
Bortoleto highlighted that the points earned at the British Grand Prix represent a reward for Audi’s work and an extra boost for the rest of the season. Responsible for the team’s six points in 2026, the driver stated that he intends to keep learning how to extract the maximum from the car and to pursue another strong result at a circuit that demands confidence, precision, and adaptability.
Behind the technical scenes, the FIA authorized Red Bull to use its controversial rear wing at Spa. The concept, also employed by Ferrari, remains under investigation for safety reasons after failures that caused the RB22’s wing not to return fully to its original position, resulting in a loss of aerodynamic downforce and accidents involving Max Verstappen in Austria and at Silverstone. Up to now, however, the governing body has found no reasons to ban the component.
McLaren, for its part, confirmed that Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will use the latest version of the Mercedes engine. The upgrade does not promise an immediate performance gain, but it provides greater reliability, and it will be deployed on the grid without penalties. The team will also bring a new rear wing, though it does not expect a significant change in its competitiveness.
Away from the track, instability in the Middle East has once again raised concerns for Formula 1. The WEC is studying replacing its rounds in Qatar and Bahrain with races in Barcelona and Monza, a scenario that broadens questions about the remainder of the Formula 1 calendar, which still includes events in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
