F1 Roundup: Herta hints at F2 exit, Leclerc penalty looms, Masi lands new role

Saturday's F1 headlines: Colton Herta hints he won't continue in F2 beyond 2026, Charles Leclerc may face an Azerbaijan GP penalty, Michael Masi has a new role, and Rally Saudi Arabia is cancelled.

Why it matters:

Herta's next move affects Cadillac's F1 driver plans. Leclerc's penalty could hurt Ferrari in Baku. Masi's return puts a controversial figure back in motorsport leadership. The WRC cancellation raises questions about F1's closing races.

The details:

• Herta: Cadillac test driver Colton Herta says he is “not interested” in a second F2 season in 2027. The 26-year-old, a multiple IndyCar race winner, moved to F2 for 2026 to boost his F1 hopes with Cadillac but sits 19th in the standings.
• Leclerc: Fred Vasseur hinted Leclerc could take an engine penalty in Baku after his heavy Monza crash at Parabolica. That would mean a grid drop for the Azerbaijan GP.
• Masi: The former F1 race director was named head of sporting for SRO Motorsports Australia, five years after the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi GP that ended his FIA tenure.
• WRC: The FIA cancelled Rally Saudi Arabia, the scheduled 2026 WRC finale. A decision on F1's Qatar and Abu Dhabi GPs is coming; Stefano Domenicali said Imola could step in.

Between the lines:

Carlos Sainz, once considered a top F1 talent when he left Ferrari in 2024, is seeing his reputation slide as Williams' struggles affect his driving. His best days may be behind him.

What's next:

Ferrari's final call on Leclerc's engine is expected before Baku. The FIA will decide Qatar and Abu Dhabi, potentially making Imola the 2026 F1 finale.