F1 News

F1 Today | Marko turns up the heat as Red Bull launch Newey's project

12 July at 20:00
  • Matt Gretton
  • Editor-in-Chief

Formula 1 has just completed a triple-header and goes into a rest weekend. However, one of the most tantalising projects involving Adrian Newey and Red Bull was launched on Friday. His RB17 has been showed to the world, and now forms part of the swansong of his time at Red Bull Racing. Meanwhile, Helmut Marko has increased the pressure on Sergio Perez.

Red Bull unveils Adrian Newey's RB17

Designed by Adrian Newey and Red Bull Advanced Technologies, the RB17 builds on 20 years of F1 innovation that has won Red Bull six constructors' titles. The RB17 has a carbon-fibre monocoque chassis with two seats and a mid-mounted V10 engine. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a carbon-fibre gearbox. Weighing less than 900 kilograms and with more than 1200 hp, the RB17 delivers lap times comparable to F1 and top speeds of more than 350 km/h, while still being easy to drive. The RB17 will appear in a very limited edition: only 50 will be sold. See more here.

 
 
 
 
 
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Marko turns up the heat on Perez

Sergio Perez may have a new contract at Red Bull Racing in his pocket, but he is not entirely sure of the Formula 1 seat next year alongside Max Verstappen. Helmut Marko is adding to the pressure on the Mexican, saying Red Bull will make a decision on his future during the summer break.

Marko confirms that there is a performance clause in Perez's F1 contract, although the 81-year-old Austrian stresses that there is one in every contract. What Perez may have more to fear is the two races remaining before the summer break: indeed, it has been suggested that this is the deadline for the Mexican to improve. Find out what Marko said here.

Audi gain experience

Audi has struck a major blow ready for their arrival in Formula 1. The team currently goes by the name Stake F1 but will be called Audi from 2026. The management team will be strengthened with the arrival of Stefan Strahnz, who previously worked for Mercedes. Find out more here.

Brown critical of the FIA stewarding system

The Formula 1 stewarding system has come under scrutiny in the last few weeks. Team principals and drivers themselves have been involved in meetings looking to change the way races are managed after the fallout of the Austrian Grand Prix, with issues arising at other Grands Prix in the past as a result of the part-time and interchanging nature of stewarding. McLaren team boss Zak Brown believes the current structure undermines the sport of F1. This is what he had to say on the matter.