F1 Nation

Lawrence Barretto, experienced F1 correspondent and presenter, breaks down 2026's big changes. New engines, batteries and sustainable e-fuels enter the arena. Hear clear explanations of boost, the overtake system, battery harvesting, active aero and qualifying with expanded grids. Cadillac's strong debut and Audi's works transition get attention too.

F1TV commentator and former Renault driver Jolyon Palmer joins Tom Clarkson to reflect on pre-season testing, as Formula 1 gets set for a very exciting new era.The teams and drivers have had a shakedown in Barcelona, followed by two, three-day tests in Bahrain, ahead of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix in March.So what have we learned about the new cars? Which teams look competitive? Who still has a lot of work to do? And what do we think the pecking order is heading to Melbourne?What Next?F1 Nation is back next Monday with our big season preview before the Australian Grand Prix. And F1 Explains returns for 2026 this Friday on the F1 Nation feed. Presenter Christian Hewgill is joined by F1 correspondent Lawrence Barretto to answer your questions about the new cars and regulations. Send them in to f1explains@f1.com

Announcements about a new 2026 schedule and a weekly split between reaction shows and Q&A installments. A clear plan for listener questions to be answered by insiders and technical explainers. Promises of interviews with drivers, team principals and behind-the-scenes staff. Teasers about first-week topics, including what changes in 2026 and previews of testing coverage.

This week, Jolyon Palmer, former F1 driver and analyst, and James Hinchcliffe, IndyCar winner and F1 pundit, join race engineer Will Joseph to celebrate Lando Norris's remarkable title win. They discuss how Lando turned struggles into strengths while navigating intense pressure. Insights include McLaren's strategic depth and team dynamics with Oscar Piastri. The panel reflects on Max Verstappen's near-title escape and evaluates Red Bull's race tactics. Lando's journey reshapes what it means to be a champion, while Oscar’s growth hints at a promising future.

F1 correspondent Lawrence Barretto joins Tom Clarkson from Yas Marina to dissect the intense qualifying for the title-deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. They explore how Max Verstappen’s pole position sets a psychological tone against championship rivals Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. The duo dives into potential tactical mind games, with predictions on aggressive strategies from Piastri and the influence of George Russell and Charles Leclerc. Lawrence analyzes team dynamics, offering insights into Lando's race strategy amid high-stakes pressures.

Jolyon Palmer, a former F1 driver turned analyst, and James Hinchcliffe, an IndyCar race winner, join Tom Clarkson to dive into the thrilling title showdown at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. They analyze the pressure on drivers like Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, and Oscar Piastri, discussing the impact of intra-team dynamics at McLaren. The duo debates strategies that could make or break the race and reflects on Red Bull's tactical prowess. Predictions fly as they speculate on the title winner and reveal insights on upcoming talent Isack Hadjar.

Jolyon Palmer, a former F1 driver turned commentator, and Paul Aron, an up-and-coming Alpine reserve driver, delve into the high-stakes drama of the Qatar Grand Prix. They dissect McLaren's costly decision not to pit during the Safety Car, which allowed Max Verstappen to seize victory and propel the title race to its final showdown. The duo also analyzes Oscar Piastri's return to form, Lando Norris' struggles under pressure, and Carlos Sainz's impressive podium finish. Plus, insights into Red Bull's challenges and the implications of Adrian Newey joining Aston Martin add depth to the thrilling race recap.

Spanish motorsport journalist Albert Fabrega joins Tom Clarkson to delve into Adrian Newey's new role as Aston Martin's Team Principal starting in 2026. They discuss what this means for the team's dynamics and driver reactions. The duo explores whether Newey's design expertise translates to team leadership. As they shift gears, they analyze championship scenarios, focusing on Lando Norris's title chances and McLaren's strategy. With new tyre regulations in play, they predict race outcomes and the potential impact on the championship standings.

In this discussion, F1 correspondent Lawrence Barretto analyzes the shocking disqualification of McLaren drivers due to technical breaches, detailing the aftermath and its implications for the title race. He breaks down Max Verstappen's commanding victory and the impact on his rivals. The conversation also highlights Mercedes’ unexpected gains from McLaren’s misfortune, Ferrari's ongoing struggles with their setup, and the impressive rise of Kimi Antonelli. Plus, Doriane Pin shares her exciting journey to becoming the F1 Academy champion.

F1 TV expert and six-time IndyCar race winner James Hinchcliffe joins Tom Clarkson for a thrilling preview of the Las Vegas Grand Prix. They dive into Lando Norris's championship mindset and Oscar Piastri's need to capitalize with nothing to lose. Hinchcliffe discusses the complexities of the Vegas street circuit, Red Bull's slim title chances, and Ferrari’s hopes for a win despite recent struggles. The conversation also touches on the fiery midfield battle and the significance of race strategies in the remaining triple-header.