F1 Nation

F1TV commentator Jolyon Palmer and Alpine Reserve Driver Paul Aron join Tom Clarkson in the Lusail paddock to reflect on another huge twist in this year’s title race.  The guys talk about the decisive moment of the Qatar Grand Prix, when everyone except both McLaren drivers pitted under the Safety Car and Max Verstappen took full advantage to ensure the championship fight goes down to the season-finale in Abu Dhabi.  What was McLaren’s thinking behind that strategy? Why did it cost them victory? And how should they have reacted differently?   Tom, Jolyon and Paul also discuss why Oscar Piastri was back to his best in Qatar and why Lando Norris wasn’t quite at the level he’s shown in recent weeks. And with just 16 points now separating Lando, Max and Oscar, what will their mindset be in the build-up to this mouth-watering title showdown at the Yas Marina Circuit? Also on the agenda: Carlos Sainz’s incredible performance to secure his second podium for Williams, another weekend to forget for Ferrari and a strong result for Fernando Alonso and Aston Martin following the news that Adrian Newey will become their Team Principal in 2026. Listen to more official F1 podcasts In-depth interviews with F1's biggest stars on F1 Beyond The Grid Your F1 questions answered by the experts on F1 Explains THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY... F1 Store: Treat the F1 fan in your life this festive season with exclusive gear from the Official F1 Store. Shop now at f1store.formula1.com Square: Get up to $200 off Square hardware at square.com/go/f1nation. 

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.

Join F1 TV lead commentator Alex Jacques and Brazilian racing expert Felipe Giaffone as they break down a thrilling race in Brazil. Lando Norris showcases peak performance, accurately judged as he edges closer to the championship. Max Verstappen delivers an astonishing comeback from the pit lane to P3, raising questions about his title chances. The duo also discusses Oscar Piastri's controversial penalty, rookie advancements from Kimi Antonelli, and Ferrari's struggles, making for an insightful analysis rich with predictions for the rest of the season.

Jolyon Palmer, a former F1 driver and current commentator, teams up with Erik van Haren, a motorsport journalist from De Telegraaf, to delve into the intense championship battle ahead of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. They explore Lando Norris's remarkable turnaround from a 34-point deficit and the pressures of leading the standings. The conversation shifts to Max Verstappen's chances of a comeback and how Red Bull has evolved under new leadership. Additionally, they analyze the fierce competition for P2 in the Constructors' Championship and the unpredictable effects of weather at Interlagos.

James Hinchcliffe, a six-time IndyCar winner, and Esteban Gutiérrez, a former F1 driver, delve into the thrilling Mexico City Grand Prix. They analyze Lando Norris's impressive pole-to-victory journey and what it means for his championship mindset, alongside Oscar Piastri's struggle for consistency. The duo discusses Max Verstappen's relentless comeback efforts, Lewis Hamilton's controversial penalty, and the strong showing from Ferrari. Gutiérrez highlights the importance of team culture and the rise of Haas rookie Ollie Bearman, who claimed a career-best finish.

Haas Formula 1 driver Ollie Bearman shares his insights ahead of the Mexico City GP. He discusses his recent momentum, aiming for a third consecutive points finish, and the challenges posed by the high-altitude circuit. Bearman also dives into the intense title battle between Verstappen and McLaren’s Piastri and Norris, revealing which driver he thinks thrives under pressure. With thoughts on race strategy, car performance, and even a nod to Colton Herta’s F2 transition, Bearman's perspective is both candid and compelling.

James Hinchcliffe, a six-time IndyCar race winner and F1 TV expert, joins Tom Clarkson to analyze the US Grand Prix. They discuss Max Verstappen's dominance and its implications for McLaren's championship hopes. Hinchcliffe delves into Lando Norris's strategic overtake of Charles Leclerc and Oscar Piastri's recent performance dip. Team dynamics come under scrutiny as they ponder whether McLaren should prioritize one driver. They also explore Ferrari's recovery strategy and Lewis Hamilton's evolving role at Mercedes.

Join former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer and ex-Ferrari engineer Rob Smedley as they dissect the fierce competition between McLaren teammates Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. They debate how securing the Constructors' title might change team dynamics, and explore the concept of 'rules of engagement' in racing. With insights into Mercedes' future driver lineup and the challenges Ferrari faces, Rob shares a peek behind the scenes at Maranello. Plus, predictions for the United States Grand Prix add to the excitement!