The FIA is set to assist Red Bull with the sale of WRC commercial rights, while Valtteri Bottas has confirmed his next move, competing in a cycling race ahead of his anticipated F1 2026 comeback with Cadillac. This round-up covers these and other key F1 headlines from Friday.
FIA to Aid Red Bull in WRC Rights Sale
Why it matters: The World Rally Championship is seeking a new commercial rights holder, with F1's governing body actively facilitating the process involving current holders Red Bull. The details: The FIA will launch a tender process and work alongside Red Bull, KW25, and banking giant JP Morgan to find a buyer. The big picture: F1 commercial rights holder Liberty Media is reportedly not interested in acquiring the WRC rights.
Valtteri Bottas's Next Move Amid Cadillac F1 2026 Deal
The latest: Valtteri Bottas is scheduled to compete in the Monsterrando cycling race this weekend. This comes after reports indicated he is closing in on an agreement to join the new Cadillac team for the F1 2026 season. Looking ahead: Bottas has reportedly reached an agreement to join Cadillac and is widely expected to partner with Sergio Perez in F1 2026.
FIA Issues Strong Statement on Alex Wurz Report
Context: The FIA has released a forceful statement in response to a media report concerning the future direction of karting, which reportedly involved Grand Prix Drivers' Association chairman Alex Wurz. The incident: The statement addresses an alleged interview with Wurz published by a Dutch F1 website.
Caterham Name Poised for Potential F1 Return
The proposal: The Caterham name, absent from F1 for over a decade, is being considered for a potential return to the grid. This effort is spearheaded by Kuwaiti investor Saad Kassis-Mohamed's investment entity, SKM Capital. The plan: SKM Capital aims to launch a new team, SKM Racing, which would revive the Caterham brand in F1 for 2027.
Martin Brundle Advises George Russell on "Pay" Comment
The issue: Sky F1 pundit Martin Brundle has offered advice to George Russell regarding his comment about potentially "paying" for the opportunity to fight for an F1 title. Brundle's take: Brundle suggested that such a remark was unwise and could "hurt us." Background: Russell is reportedly close to signing a new multi-year contract with Mercedes, having joined the team in 2022 after a stint with Williams.