The Race F1 Podcast
The Race Media Ltd
If something happens in Formula 1 racing, The Race F1 Podcast has got you covered. Featuring renowned F1 journalists Edd Straw, Jon Noble, Mark Hughes, Scott Mitchell-Malm, Ben Anderson and more, we’ll bring you unbeatable insight from the ground at every F1 race, including the inside line on the latest breaking Formula 1 news and gossip, informed debate about the biggest topics, and in-depth analysis after each grand prix. The feed also features other F1 shows from The Race's stable, including Bring Back V10s, And Colossally That's History!, and The Race F1 Tech Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 11, 2026 • 28min
BONUS: In-Car Insights - What we're looking for on day one of Bahrain F1 testing
A car-ride conversation about what to watch on day one of Bahrain F1 testing. They tease on-track clues like braking, rotation and mid-corner stability. They debate fragile aero bits, tyre and long-run observations, and how Bahrain can mask weaknesses. They unpack engine energy, straight-line mode detection zones, and the logistics of getting the right trackside view.
Feb 9, 2026 • 35min
Why Aston Martin hinted it'll start 2026 behind rivals
Jon Noble, motorsport journalist and on-the-ground reporter, shares first-hand impressions from Aston Martin’s launch and testing paddocks. He outlines why measured messaging from Alonso and Newey hints Aston Martin may begin 2026 behind rivals. They discuss personnel, simulator readiness, limited driver running, the engine compression controversy, and Cadillac’s bold Super Bowl livery reveal.
Feb 7, 2026 • 54min
HILL & HERBERT: Damon and Johnny on testing secrets and mad car launches
A nostalgic look back at outrageous car launches and theatrical PR stunts that sometimes outlived the cars. Wild backstage stories include space-themed reveals and near-sackings. A deep dive into how winter testing used to be long, experimental and driver-led. They debate how modern limits and new 2026 rules force rapid learning and raise pressure on teams and drivers.
30 snips
Feb 5, 2026 • 60min
What testing tells us about how F1 racing will change in 2026
Nelson Valkenburg, Dutch F1 commentator for Viaplay Netherlands, brings broadcaster perspective and explains how to present the new 2026 rules. Short takes on Barcelona testing, energy-harvesting complexities, which driver styles may win out, sim training advantages, turbo/tyre concerns, Williams’ delayed start and Aston Martin development timing.
24 snips
Feb 2, 2026 • 55min
The key tech trends of F1's 2026 cars
Mark Hughes, veteran F1 journalist offering sharp historical perspective, and Gary Anderson, ex-Formula 1 technical director and race engineer, dissect 2026 car design trends. They examine active aero choices, unusual sidepod and bargeboard solutions, bold suspension geometries, large airbox inlets and diffuser slotting. They also flag which cars impressed and which raise concerns.
28 snips
Jan 30, 2026 • 42min
Newey’s Aston Martin catches the eye - but who was the real winner of F1's shakedown test?
A look at Adrian Newey’s striking Aston Martin debut and whether its looks match potential. Debate over who truly led the Barcelona shakedown, with Mercedes’ mileage and Ferrari’s fastest time both in the frame. Engine reliability and mileage differences get heavy focus, including Red Bull Powertrains, Audi and Cadillac catch-up stories. Midfield progress from Alpine, Haas and Williams is also discussed.
20 snips
Jan 28, 2026 • 52min
Mercedes’ ominous form, McLaren’s debut, and more on Williams’ shakedown absence
Jorge Peiró, Spanish motorsport journalist who covered the Barcelona shakedown on-site, describes fan interest and security interactions. The conversation spotlights Mercedes’ ominous early form and what heavy mileage might signal. There’s also coverage of McLaren’s smooth debut run and why Williams skipped the group shakedown.
25 snips
Jan 26, 2026 • 37min
What we learned on day 1 of F1's frustrating private test
Reporters describe a heavily locked‑down Barcelona test with tight security and limited sightlines. They list which teams ran, who logged the most laps, and which car set the early benchmark. Technical talk covers Audi integration, gearboxes, compression ratio chatter, and first impressions of the new cars’ looks and sounds. They argue the closed format was a missed PR opportunity for F1.
Jan 24, 2026 • 32min
Alpine unveils new livery on cruise ship - but will the team sink or swim in 2026?
A cruise-ship livery launch sets a theatrical tone for Alpine’s 2026 reset. Discussion centers on the switch to Mercedes power units and whether early reliability and mileage will pay off. Leadership changes, Enstone’s capacity limits, and David Sanchez’s technical test get scrutiny. The conversation also highlights Pierre Gasly’s role and Franco Colapinto’s growing maturity as pressure mounts for a strong season start.
7 snips
Jan 23, 2026 • 39min
Ferrari launches new car + Why Williams are missing crucial first test
Scott Mitchell-Malm, motorsport journalist and technical analyst, breaks down Ferrari’s SF-26 launch and its cautious Fiorano shakedown. He walks through visible design features and the team’s conservative running plan. He also explains why Williams will miss the Barcelona private test and the potential consequences for their 2026 preparations.
