Seven F1 Facts That Show How Much Has Changed Since GTA 5
Summary
As GTA 6 finally arrives 13 years after GTA 5, F1 has transformed: Alonso’s win drought continues, McLaren and Mercedes have reclaimed titles, and Red Bull’s dominant 2013 leadership has largely dispersed.
GTA 6 arrives on 19 November 2026, more than 13 years after GTA 5 launched on 17 September 2013. In that time F1 has undergone new engine eras, rebuilt dynasties and a near-total turnover at the top.
Why it matters:
The contrast shows how quickly F1’s competitive order can shift—and how long some droughts can last.
The details:
- Fernando Alonso has not won since the 2013 Spanish GP; his tally remains 32.
- Nico Hulkenberg scored his first podium at the 2025 British GP after 239 starts.
- F1 moved from V8s to turbo-hybrids in 2014, wider cars in 2017, ground effect in 2022 and a new rules cycle in 2026.
- McLaren ended a nine-year winless run in 2021, then won the 2024 and 2025 constructors’ titles; Lando Norris took the 2025 drivers’ crown.
- Ferrari have still not won a title since 2008 (constructors’) or 2007 (drivers’), despite Alonso, Vettel, Leclerc and now Hamilton.
- Mercedes have won nine constructors’ titles since 2013, including 2026; Kimi Antonelli became F1’s youngest champion.
- Red Bull’s 2013 title-winning structure has largely dispersed: Newey, Wheatley, Horner and Marko have left, with Laurent Mekies now in charge.
What’s next:
Red Bull still won with Max Verstappen, but the people who built its first dominant era are gone. The next rules cycle could reshape the grid again.
Original Article :https://www.gpblog.com/en/features/seven-mind-blowing-f1-facts-that-show-just-ho...