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
Jan 22, 2026 • 37min
Mercedes’ F1 car reveal and McLaren’s ‘clever’ upgrade strategy
Join experienced motorsport journalist Jon Noble as he dives into Mercedes' new W17 car reveal and its cutting-edge design features. He discusses McLaren’s clever strategy of delaying their testing to maximize development and avoid early commitments, potentially outsmarting their rivals. The conversation also covers the upcoming engine meeting regarding power unit advancements and the implications of compression ratio changes. Get insights into team strategies and what the new regulations could mean for the season ahead.
Jan 20, 2026 • 44min
Why Audi and Honda managed expectations at respective launch events
Valentin Khorounzhiy, a motorsport journalist, shares vibrant insights from Audi's Berlin launch, highlighting the festive atmosphere and the team's emphasis on managing expectations for 2026. Scott Mitchell-Malm, a technical reporter, provides an intriguing look at Honda’s RA626H engine reveal in Tokyo, noting their cautious approach to competitiveness and the impact of their fuel supplier switch. Both guests underline the importance of reliability and long-term goals as major themes in the teams' messaging this season.
Jan 19, 2026 • 41min
Haas and Cadillac F1 cars break cover - our reaction
In this chat, motorsport journalist Scott Mitchell-Malm and former F1 technical director Gary Anderson dive into Haas and Cadillac's new 2026 F1 cars. Scott breaks down the significance of Haas's partnership with Toyota, while exploring how it enhances testing and manufacturing capabilities. Gary provides a detailed technical analysis of the car designs, including innovative features and aero strategies. They also discuss Cadillac's conservative approach in its first year, recruitment challenges, and the importance of reliability for both teams.
Jan 18, 2026 • 50min
When should an F1 driver retire? - The Undercut with Damon Hill and Mark Hughes
Damon Hill and Mark Hughes dive into the tricky topic of F1 drivers' retirements, focusing on legends like Hamilton and Alonso. They explore how car performance and team dynamics cloud assessments of a driver's true capabilities. Confidence plays a huge role, impacting both motivation and performance. Hill reflects on his own retirement experience, while both discuss the balance between enjoying driving and competing. They also touch on life after racing and the psychological challenges that come with saying goodbye to the track.
11 snips
Jan 17, 2026 • 1h 24min
BONUS: Indycar at war! Ep. 3 - Peace in our time
In a gripping conclusion to a dramatic saga, the hosts reveal how the CART/IRL war finally reached a resolution in the early 2000s. They discuss the controversial finish of the 2002 Indy 500, marked by chaos and disputed decisions. Tensions rise as politics overshadowed facts in the rulings, leading to major implications for teams and manufacturers. The narrative unfolds with insights into the collapse of CART and the eventual unification of IndyCar, highlighting key players like Tony George and Kevin Kalkhoven. A captivating dive into motorsport history!
30 snips
Jan 16, 2026 • 32min
Red Bull and Verstappen kick-off F1 launch season - but what did we learn?
Jon Noble, an experienced motorsport journalist, joins to dissect Red Bull's dazzling launch in Detroit, revealing a fresh livery and deep insights into their power unit for 2026. They delve into Ford's influential role, the intriguing design clues from the show cars, and Max Verstappen's measured approach as he gears up for a pivotal year. The discussion also touches on the modest debut of Racing Bulls and predictions for their season, underscoring the dynamic interplay of technical detail and driver expectations in F1's ever-evolving landscape.
24 snips
Jan 14, 2026 • 1h 5min
What's active aero and will the Mercedes engine be best? We answer your questions on F1 2026
Scott Mitchell-Malm, an F1 technical journalist, and Jon Noble, a seasoned Formula 1 reporter, dive into the pivotal changes for 2026. They explain how active aero will function, the tactical nuances of its deployment, and the evolving driving styles required. Discussion on the expected dominance of Mercedes in power units raises eyebrows, with predictions on Red Bull's standing also explored. The conversation touches on the complexities of new fuel regulations, sustainability issues, and the contrasting performance between works teams and customer outfits.
Jan 13, 2026 • 1h 3min
BONUS: Indycar at war! Ep. 2 - The nightmare attempt to rival the Indy 500
In this engaging discussion, motorsport journalist Edd Straw and Indy car historian John Oreovicz dive into the chaotic US 500 of 1996, where CART attempted to challenge the Indy 500. They explore the infamous three-wide start crash and its damaging effects on CART's image. The conversation reveals the intense atmosphere among journalists and the ensuing rivalry between CART and IRL. Edd and John also reflect on how the tensions and struggles shaped the future of IndyCar racing, highlighting the eventual migration of teams back to Indianapolis.
Jan 11, 2026 • 1h 2min
HILL & HERBERT: Who will be 2026 F1 champion? Damon and Johnny's verdict
Damon Hill and Johnny Herbert dive into the excitement of the 2026 regulations, discussing how new rules will shift driving techniques and team dynamics. They focus on Lando Norris's potential growth after securing a title and analyze Isack Hadjar's role at Red Bull alongside Verstappen. The duo debates which teams will thrive or struggle under the new guidelines, speculating on engine loopholes and the impact of Red Bull's recent staff changes. Plus, they compare aging legends Hamilton and Alonso, pondering their future form in the competition.
12 snips
Jan 9, 2026 • 1h 5min
BONUS: Indycar at war! Ep. 1 - The insane story of how a sport was split apart
Join U.S. motorsport journalist John Oreovicz as he takes you through the dramatic split in IndyCar racing during the 1990s. Hear about Tony George's controversial announcement to create the IRL and the motivations behind it, including a desire for more American drivers. Oreovicz shares insights into CART's initial underestimation of George's resolve and the repercussions of pivotal decisions that weakened their position. Discover how branding disputes and tactical moves fueled a fierce rivalry that forever changed the face of American motorsport.
