Ferrari investigates Hamilton DNF, Verstappen radio emerges, 2027 F1 calendar revealed

Ferrari has launched an investigation into Lewis Hamilton's SF-26 after the seven-time champion retired from the Spanish Grand Prix with a brake problem. Initial findings from the team indicate the failure was not related to the rebuild job following his FP3 crash. Elsewhere, F1 has confirmed the 2027 calendar, featuring an expanded 10-round Sprint schedule and a surprise Monaco format change.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's first season at Ferrari was always going to be judged on results. A brake failure that ends his race early raises questions about reliability, while the 2027 calendar decisions show F1 is still willing to experiment with formats in search of better racing.

The details:

• Ferrari's investigation is focused on Hamilton's brake issue at the Madring, with PlanetF1's Thomas Maher reporting initial findings from the team.
• The problem is understood to be unrelated to his FP3 crash rebuild, giving Ferrari a clearer path to identifying the root cause.
• On the opening lap, Hamilton and Max Verstappen ran side-by-side into Turn 1, forcing Verstappen wide. An untelevised team radio message later told Verstappen that Hamilton was "entitled" not to leave him space.
• The 2027 calendar will start in Bahrain and increases the number of Sprint rounds from six to 10, creating a particularly busy September and October.
• Monaco will host a Sprint race for the first time, reigniting debate over whether the format can improve action around the Monte Carlo streets.

Between the lines:

Martin Brundle believes Aston Martin should reset its driver line-up with "a couple of mid 25-year-olds," a pointed remark amid uncertainty over Fernando Alonso's future. Nico Rosberg disagreed, highlighting the experience and quality that Alonso still brings to the team.

What's next:

Ferrari will work to trace the exact cause of Hamilton's brake failure before the next race, while the expanded Sprint calendar faces its first real test in Monaco. The Alonso situation remains one of the key storylines as the 2027 grid continues to take shape.