Driver Market Chaos - F1 News Recap (14th April 2024)

Alonso Stays

• Fernando Alonso extends his contract with Aston Martin until at least 2026, in what will be the “longest contract of his career” and take him past his racing career into a Niki-Lauda-at-Mercedes type role with Lawrence Stroll’s team.

• With Lance Stroll expected to continue, Carlos Sainz is now theorized to join Mercedes in a direct seat swap with Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton.

Ferrari Upgrade

• Ferrari are deploying a major upgrade package for the Imola GP, with changes to the sidepods, floor, wings and diffuser, intended to generate more downforce so the car can be run with higher aerodynamic efficiency and top speed.

2026 Regulation Rumors

• F1's new regulations are "alarming" according to internal sources, with drivers crashing under acceleration and slight corners due to chronic rear instability in simulator testing. Substantial changes to the FIA's active aerodynamic plans are required, or the cars will only be safely driveable at a pace slower than current Formula 2 cars...