This Week in Racing

March 02, 2026

The Big Story

The 2026 racing season is off to a dramatic start, with several teams and drivers already making headlines. However, one story that has caught the attention of fans and pundits alike is the struggles of Aston Martin. Despite high hopes for the new season, the team is facing significant doubts over its prospects due to a tumultuous pre-season. The unreliability of their Honda engine has been a major concern, with the team even considering an early retirement from the Australian Grand Prix. This is a far cry from the expectations that surrounded the team just a few months ago, and it will be interesting to see how they can turn their fortunes around.

Around the Track

Several other stories have been making waves in the racing world. In NASCAR, Tyler Reddick made history by becoming the first Cup Series driver to start a season 3-0, with a thrilling win at COTA. Meanwhile, in IndyCar, Alex Palou picked up where he left off last season, dominating the field at St. Petersburg. Shane van Gisbergen's streak was broken by Reddick's win, but he was full of praise for the 23XI driver's skills behind the wheel. Additionally, Josef Newgarden's impressive comeback at St. Petersburg, where he vaulted from 23rd to 7th, is a testament to the incredible pit stops by Team Penske.

Worth Watching

As the season heats up, one trend to keep an eye on is the impact of the new starting procedure in Formula 1. Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has expressed surprise at the complaints surrounding the new procedure, stating that it was known about for a long time. Meanwhile, drivers will need to be prepared for the demands of the new season, and that includes having the right gear. A good pair of gloves, such as the Sparco Land Gloves (~$65), can make all the difference in terms of grip and control. With the Australian Grand Prix just around the corner, it will be exciting to see how the new starting procedure plays out and which drivers will come out on top. One thing is for sure - this season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.

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