Thursday F1 Roundup: Sky F1 Exit, Hamilton Ferrari Cleared, Alonso Addresses Alpine Rumors

Thursday delivered a busy Formula 1 news cycle across the paddock. Sky F1's Rachel Brookes confirmed her departure after more than a decade, while the FIA cleared Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari following post-Barcelona scrutiny. Fernando Alonso also pushed back against speculation linking him to a return to Alpine.

Why it matters:

These stories reflect mounting pressures throughout the 2026 season. Brookes' exit follows her recent disclosure of online abuse, underscoring the toxicity media personnel increasingly navigate. Meanwhile, Hamilton's regulatory clearance and Alonso's uncertain Aston Martin future highlight the relentless scrutiny on both technical compliance and driver-market speculation.

The details:

• Sky F1 exit: David Croft acknowledged the broadcaster will miss Brookes after she left immediately, having recently spoken out about abuse received following a Max Verstappen interview.
• Hamilton inspection: The FIA confirmed Hamilton's SF-26 passed "extensive physical inspection" after his Barcelona victory, with the rear-braking system fully compliant with 2026 regulations.
• Aston Martin criticism: Alonso claimed the team faces "borderline abuse" on social media after a season yielding just one point, calling them an "easy target" amid rumors of a 2027 Alpine move.
• Austrian heat: With temperatures nearing 40°C, the FIA declared a heat hazard for this weekend's Red Bull Ring race, requiring advanced cooling systems and allowing driver cool vests.

What's next:

The Austrian Grand Prix arrives this weekend under punishing heat that will challenge reliability and strategy. Aston Martin and Honda addressed speculation linking Alonso to Alpine, though questions will likely persist until the Spaniard clarifies his future beyond 2026. Hamilton, meanwhile, will look to capitalize on Barcelona momentum.