F1 Today: Wolff Slams Masi, Red Bull Sets 2026 Car Launch Date

Toto Wolff has once again voiced his strong opinions on the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, calling former FIA Race Director Michael Masi "a lunatic" and accusing him of destroying Lewis Hamilton's potential eighth world title. Meanwhile, Red Bull Racing has announced January 15, 2026, as the launch date for its 2026 challenger, the RB22, in Detroit, USA.

Why it matters:

The 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix remains a raw nerve in Formula 1, especially for Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton. Wolff's continued condemnation highlights the lasting impact of Masi's decisions, which fundamentally altered the championship outcome and, for many, undermined the integrity of the sport. For Red Bull, the early 2026 car launch signifies a major strategic move as they embark on a new engine partnership with Ford, signaling their intent to maintain dominance in the sport's next hybrid era.

The Details:

• Wolff's Continued Outrage: Toto Wolff described the 2021 Abu Dhabi GP as a "loss of control," where Masi's decision to allow only select lapped cars to unlap before a final lap shootout cost Hamilton his record eighth world title. Wolff's wife, Susie Wolff, also expressed her "disbelief" at how one individual's interpretation of rules could change F1 history.
  • The FIA later acknowledged "human error" but maintained Masi acted in good faith, a stance that has not appeased Mercedes.
  • Mercedes has struggled to regain its previous dominance under the new regulations, with Wolff admitting the championship loss "stings deeply."
• Red Bull's 2026 Challenger: The RB22 will be unveiled on January 15, 2026, in Detroit, Michigan, USA.
  • This location is significant as Detroit is the hometown of their new engine partner, Ford.
  • The launch will be a joint presentation, also including Racing Bulls' 2026 car.
  • Early Unveiling: This early date aligns with an accelerated 2026 F1 testing schedule, necessitated by the incoming new technical regulations.
    • Teams will begin private testing in Barcelona (January 26–30), followed by official sessions in Bahrain (February 11–13 and February 18–20).

The big picture:

The 2021 controversy continues to cast a long shadow over F1, illustrating the profound impact of race direction on championship outcomes and team morale. Mercedes' persistent struggles since then underscore how critical stability and clear regulations are for competitive balance. Concurrently, Red Bull's proactive approach to the 2026 regulations with Ford highlights the intense preparation required for the sport's next era, where engine partnerships and early integration will be paramount. These two narratives—one of past injustice, one of future ambition—reveal the ever-evolving, high-stakes nature of Formula 1.

What's next:

The lingering resentment from 2021 means Masi's name will likely continue to be a talking point for Mercedes for years to come, especially if they fail to return to championship contention. For Red Bull, the RB22's launch will be a pivotal moment, offering the first glimpse into their new Ford-powered future. The subsequent testing schedule will reveal how well teams have adapted to the new regulations and integrated their power units, setting the stage for what promises to be a transformative 2026 season.