Formula 1 wrapped up this Saturday with important developments regarding the calendar, the future of Carlos Sainz, and the technical plans of the leading teams. Hockenheim began discussions to reinstate the German Grand Prix, while Mercedes is evaluating at what stage Kimi Antonelli could serve a penalty for power unit component swaps.
Stefano Domenicali confirmed that the people in charge of Hockenheim approached the sport and have already taken part in an initial discussion. The possibility is considered only for the medium term, but the growing interest in Formula 1 in Germany, including audience figures and the activity around broadcasting rights, strengthens the bid to bring the country back onto the calendar.
Leading the standings, Antonelli has already reached the limit permitted for certain components of his power unit. Mercedes is still hoping to avoid the swap, but regards Monza and Baku as potential venues to serve the penalty if it becomes necessary. Toto Wolff acknowledged that the Italian circuit would be favorable due to overtaking opportunities, although the home race carries a special significance for the driver.
Carlos Sainz also placed his future in the spotlight by stating that he will use the summer break to talk with James Vowles and Williams. The Spaniard intends to assess the team’s next steps and his involvement in the project after a challenging first half of the season, but he has not yet set a date to announce his decision.
At Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton projected a stronger second half of the season and highlighted the car’s steady development pace. The Briton stated that the team is working to reduce the horsepower gap on the straights and intends to continue bringing updates after the break, a period he will also use to return physically and mentally better prepared.
The Aston Martin, for its part, tested at the Hungaroring the new version of the Honda engine that will be used in the Dutch Grand Prix. Early data indicated the elimination of the vibrations that affected the start of the season, as well as the possibility of a near 30 hp gain. Jak Crawford drove the AMR26 during the filming activity, limited to 200 kilometers.
