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Westcott with Mercedes and Prema

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Mercedes Bets on American Talent Payton Westcott for 2026 F1 Academy Season

In a significant move for the future of women in motorsport, Mercedes has announced 16-year-old Californian Payton Westcott as their driver for the 2026 F1 Academy season. This breaking news signals a new chapter for the team, following Doriane Pin’s graduation to a development driver role. The announcement, made today, February 9, 2026, underscores Mercedes’ commitment to nurturing young talent and expanding opportunities within Formula 1.

From Wildcard Debut to Full Season with Mercedes

Westcott first turned heads with a strong performance as a wildcard entry at the Las Vegas season finale, finishing sixth in Race 1. Prior to that, she honed her skills in Italian F4 with Van Amersfoort, demonstrating promising speed and adaptability. Her relationship with PREMA Racing began at the end of 2025 and will continue throughout the 2026 F1 Academy season, providing a stable and experienced environment for her development.

A Rising Star’s Journey: Karting to Single-Seaters

Westcott’s racing journey began at the age of six, progressing to competitive karting at twelve. She quickly established herself as a force in the United States Pro Kart Series and California Pro Kart Challenge, achieving a third-place overall finish in the Challenge of the Americas. In 2024, she was selected for the inaugural F1 ACADEMY DISCOVER YOUR DRIVE karters in the Champions of the Future Academy Program, marking a pivotal step towards single-seater racing. Her transition to single-seaters in 2025 included campaigns in the Formula Winter Series, Italian F4 Championship, E4 Championship, and F4 Saudi Arabian Championship, where she achieved a Female Trophy win in the Formula Winter Series and became the first and only woman to win in the UAE Trophy Series.

The 2026 F1 Academy Grid Takes Shape

The 2026 F1 Academy grid is beginning to solidify, with several teams already announcing their driver lineups. Here’s a look at the current team and rider situation:

  • MP Motorsport: Gademan – Larsen – Kosterman
  • Rodin: Felbermayr – Lloyd – Stevens
  • Hitech: Dobson – Robertson
  • ART: Billard – Countryman – Jacquet
  • According: Paatz – Westcott
  • Campos: TBA
  • Palmowski and Ferreira: To be defined

Mercedes’ Continued Investment in Female Motorsport Talent

Gwen Lagrue, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team Driver Development Advisor, expressed confidence in Westcott’s potential, acknowledging the challenge of following in Doriane Pin’s footsteps. Pin, the reigning F1 ACADEMY Champion, will function closely with Westcott throughout the season, providing mentorship and support. This collaboration highlights Mercedes’ holistic approach to driver development and their dedication to fostering a pipeline of female talent within Formula 1. Westcott herself expressed her excitement about joining the Mercedes family, praising their passion, determination, and commitment to developing young drivers.

Payton Westcott’s journey represents a significant stride towards greater inclusivity in motorsport. As she prepares for the 2026 F1 Academy season, her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring racers and a testament to the growing opportunities for women in the world of Formula 1. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of F1 Academy and the latest developments in motorsport.

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Sport

Hamilton Praises Ferrari’s Shakedown Test as Solid Start Despite Rain

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Hamilton Begins Ferrari Journey with Promising,Wet Shakedown

Table of Contents

Barcelona,Spain – Lewis Hamilton embarked on his first official test session as a Ferrari driver on Tuesday,navigating a challenging,rain-soaked Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Despite the inclement weather, the seven-time World Champion expressed optimism following 120 laps completed during the shakedown, signaling a positive start to a new chapter in his illustrious Formula 1 career.

Initial Impressions and Wet-Weather Running

The Italian team initiated its testing schedule with Charles Leclerc at the helm in the morning, before handing the reins to Hamilton for the afternoon portion. While Leclerc enjoyed a brief period of dry track conditions, Hamilton’s entire run was conducted in the rain. the unpredictable conditions presented a unique hurdle, requiring a concentrated effort to optimize tyre performance.

“It was very challenging,” Hamilton stated. “It started raining at 10:30, so Charles had a little bit of dry running. But then it’s been wet all afternoon, so figuring out how to get the tires working was really productive.”

Mileage and Factory Pride

despite a red flag interrupting the session, Ferrari managed to accumulate a important amount of mileage. Hamilton deemed the 120 laps completed in the wet conditions a “solid” achievement, especially considering the difficulties. He was quick to acknowledge the hard work of the team back at the factory.

“I’m really proud of everyone back at the factory for getting the car to this point,” he said. “We got a lot of data on the car today, and we definitely need to keep it up. Lots and lots to do, but a good first day.”

A New era for Ferrari and Hamilton

The 2026 season marks a pivotal moment for both Ferrari and Hamilton. Following a disappointing 2025 campaign, the team is hoping the major regulation changes will provide an possibility to return to the front of the Formula 1 grid. Hamilton’s arrival is viewed as a critical component of this resurgence, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. According to FIA data, the 2026 regulations represent the most significant overhaul of Formula 1 technical rules in decades, focusing on sustainable fuels and a revised aerodynamic package. Learn more about the 2026 regulations here.

Key Facts from the Shakedown

Driver Session Laps Completed Track Conditions
Charles Leclerc Morning Not disclosed Mixed (Dry initially, then wet)
Lewis Hamilton Afternoon Approximately 120 Wet

Looking Ahead

Hamilton expressed relief that the initial test ran smoothly, especially given the extent of the regulatory changes. He emphasized the importance of incremental improvements and more days of similar running.“It might very well be so much worse,” he added.“It’s such a big regulation change. there were no major issues. It’s just small little increments that we are trying to improve on.”

The triumphant shakedown provides a foundation of optimism as Ferrari prepares for more extensive pre-season testing. The team will need to capitalize on this positive momentum to maximize their potential in the upcoming season.

What are your predictions for Hamilton’s debut season with Ferrari? Do you think the new regulations will shake up the competitive order in Formula 1?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!

What did lewis Hamilton say about ferrari’s shakedown test in the rain?

Hamilton Praises ferrari’s Shakedown Test as Solid Start despite Rain

Lewis Hamilton has offered encouraging words following Ferrari’s initial shakedown test of their 2026 Formula 1 car, despite challenging wet conditions at Fiorano. The seven-time World Champion, embarking on his debut season with the Scuderia, described the test as a “solid start” and expressed optimism about the team’s preparations for the new regulations.

Frist Impressions of the SF-26

The test,limited to 15 kilometers as per regulations for new car launches,provided Hamilton with his first taste of Ferrari’s 2026 challenger. While the rain significantly impacted running, the Briton focused on familiarizing himself with the car’s basic systems and initial handling characteristics.

“It was great to finally be behind the wheel of a Ferrari,” Hamilton stated in a team press release. “Obviously, the conditions weren’t ideal, but it allowed us to get a feel for the car in tricky circumstances. The team has done a fantastic job getting everything together, and it’s a really solid foundation to build from.”

Navigating Wet Conditions & Early Data

The inclement weather presented a unique challenge for the Ferrari team. Instead of focusing on outright performance, the shakedown prioritized gathering data on the car’s stability and traction control systems in the wet. this proved valuable, offering early insights into areas for refinement.

* Traction Control Analysis: Engineers meticulously analyzed data from the wet runs to understand how the car manages wheelspin and optimizes power delivery.

* Aerodynamic Evaluation: Limited visual observation of the car’s behavior in the rain provided initial feedback on the effectiveness of the aerodynamic package.

* Driver Feedback Integration: Hamilton’s input was crucial, providing the engineering team with a driver’s perspective on the car’s responsiveness and balance.

“The rain actually helped us understand some key aspects of the car’s behavior,” explained Ferrari’s Head of Track Engineering, Diego Ioverno. “It’s not the ideal scenario for a shakedown,but we maximized the chance to collect valuable data.”

2026 Regulation Impact & Power Unit Focus

The 2026 season marks a significant shift in Formula 1, with a new engine formula emphasizing enduring fuels and increased electrical power. Ferrari, along with all other manufacturers, has invested heavily in developing a competitive power unit for the new era.

Hamilton’s initial impressions suggest the Ferrari power unit is performing as expected. “The power unit feels strong, and the integration with the chassis seems promising,” he commented. “There’s still a lot of work to do, of course, but the initial signs are encouraging.”

Comparing to Mercedes’ progress Philosophy

Observers have noted a potential contrast between ferrari’s approach to the 2026 car and Mercedes’ recent development strategies. While Mercedes focused heavily on incremental gains with their existing power unit architecture, Ferrari appears to have taken a more radical approach with the new engine.

This difference in philosophy could prove decisive in the upcoming season. A bold,innovative power unit design could give Ferrari a significant advantage,while a more conservative approach might leave them playing catch-up.

Looking Ahead to Pre-Season Testing

The Fiorano shakedown was just the first step in Ferrari’s preparations for the 2026 season. The team will now embark on an extensive testing program,culminating in the official pre-season tests in Bahrain.

These tests will provide a more comprehensive assessment of the SF-26’s performance and allow the team to fine-tune the car’s setup for the opening race. Hamilton is eager to get back behind the wheel and continue the development process.

“I’m really excited about what the future holds,” he said. “I have complete faith in the team, and I’m confident that we can build a winning car together.”

The Significance of Shakedown Tests in F1

Shakedown tests, though limited in scope, are crucial for several reasons:

  1. System Checks: They allow teams to verify the functionality of all the car’s systems, including the engine, gearbox, and electronics.
  2. Driver Familiarization: They provide the driver with their first opportunity to get a feel for the new car and provide valuable feedback.
  3. Data Acquisition: Even in limited running, teams can collect valuable data on the car’s performance and identify areas for enhancement.
  4. Public Relations: Shakedown tests generate excitement among fans and provide valuable media coverage.

Hamilton’s Transition to Ferrari: A Case Study

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Entertainment

Rockstar Steam Sale: Grab Up to 75% Off on RDR2, GTA 4, and Classic Hits

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

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Rockstar Games Steam Sale offers Deep Discounts Amidst GTA 6 Anticipation

Table of Contents

As Anticipation Mounts For The Highly Expected Release Of grand Theft Auto 6, Possibly In November, Players May Face A Wait For The PC Version. Rockstar Games Typically Prioritizes Console Releases, Often Delaying The PC Launch To Optimize Performance or Encourage Initial Sales On Playstation And Xbox platforms. To Tide Gamers Over, A substantial Sale Is Currently Underway On Steam, Featuring Numerous Titles from The Renowned Developer.

A Wealth Of Rockstar Titles On Sale

This Sale Presents A Prime prospect To explore Rockstar’s Extensive Library Of Games, Offering Deep Discounts On Both Blockbuster Franchises And Hidden Gems. The Deals Span A Wide Range Of Genres, providing Entertainment Options For The Entire Year. Many titles Are Available At Their Lowest Recorded Prices On Valve’s Platform, Making It An Ideal Time To Expand Your Gaming Collection.

Red Dead Redemption 2 Stands Out As A Top Pick

Among The Discounts, Red Dead Redemption 2, Which Received A Perfect 10/10 Score From Critics Upon Its Initial Release, Is A Highlight. Available At 75% Off, Priced At $14.99/£14.99, The Game Continues To Impress With Its Detailed World, Compelling Story, And High production Values. Players Can Also Enjoy The Online Component, Red dead Online, Which Remains Popular Among Friends.

Exploring The Red Dead Universe And Beyond

The Original Red Dead Redemption Is Also Included In The Sale, Though At A Slightly higher Price Point Following Its Later Release On PC. Priced At $24.99/£19.99 (50% Off), It Provides A Fantastic Companion Narrative To Arthur Morgan’s Story, And appeals To Those Who Prefer A Different Pace.

Grand Theft Auto Classics At Unbeatable Prices

Grand Theft Auto V Can Be Acquired For $14.99/£14.99 With A 50% Discount. Though, Industry Experts Recommend Considering Grand Theft Auto IV, bundled With Its Story Expansions, For Just $5.99/£5.09 (70% Off). Many Consider Gta 4 To Offer The Series’ Strongest Narrative,Presenting A Gritty And Engaging Tale Of Nico Bellic.

When does the Rockstar Steam sale start and end?

Rockstar steam Sale: Grab Up to 75% Off on RDR2, GTA 4, and Classic Hits

The moment gamers have been waiting for is here! Rockstar Games is unleashing a massive Steam sale, offering discounts of up to 75% on some of its most iconic titles.From sprawling open-world adventures to gritty crime dramas, there’s something for every player.This sale is a fantastic prospect to expand your library with critically acclaimed games, or revisit old favorites.

Red Dead redemption 2: A Wild West Steal

Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2), the epic tale of outlaw Arthur Morgan, is seeing significant price reductions. Players can immerse themselves in the richly detailed world of the American West, experiencing a compelling story, engaging side missions, and stunning visuals.

Here’s what you can expect during the sale:

* Standard Edition: Up to 60% off.

* Special Edition: Discounts reaching 55%.

* Ultimate Edition: Save up to 50% on the complete RDR2 experience.

don’t miss the chance to explore the vast landscapes, hunt wildlife, and build your outlaw legend. This is arguably the best time to pick up RDR2 if you haven’t already.

Grand Theft Auto IV: Back to Liberty city

Relive the origins of Niko Bellic’s American Dream in Grand Theft Auto IV (GTA 4). This landmark title revolutionized open-world gameplay with its realistic physics, compelling narrative, and memorable characters.

the Steam sale features:

* GTA IV: Complete Edition: Including all DLC, discounted by up to 70%.

* Episodes from Liberty City: Experience the standalone episodes, “The Lost and Damned” and “The Ballad of Gay Tony,” at reduced prices.

GTA 4 remains a fan favorite for its mature storytelling and immersive gameplay.It’s a cornerstone of the Grand Theft Auto franchise and a must-have for any action-adventure enthusiast.

Classic Rockstar Titles: A Trip Down Memory Lane

Beyond RDR2 and GTA 4, the sale extends to a range of classic Rockstar titles, offering incredible value for both newcomers and long-time fans.

* Bully: Scholarship edition: Relive the schoolyard antics with up to 65% off.

* Max Payne 3: Experience the noir-inspired action with discounts reaching 75%.

* L.A. Noire: Solve crimes in post-war los Angeles with up to 60% off.

* Midnight Club: Complete Edition: Race through the streets with a 50% discount.

These titles represent some of Rockstar’s earliest successes and continue to hold a special place in gaming history.

Why Now is the Best Time to Buy

This Rockstar Steam sale isn’t just about saving money; it’s about experiencing some of the most influential and critically acclaimed games of all time. The discounts are substantial, making it an ideal opportunity to:

* expand Your Gaming Library: Add high-quality titles to your collection without breaking the bank.

* Revisit Beloved Classics: Rediscover the games that shaped your gaming experience.

* Introduce Friends to rockstar’s World: Share the excitement with friends who haven’t yet experienced these iconic titles.

Rockstar Games: A Legacy of Innovation

Founded as a growth division of Take-Two Interactive, rockstar Games has consistently pushed the boundaries of interactive entertainment. Known primarily for the Grand Theft Auto series,the company has also delivered groundbreaking titles like Red Dead Redemption and L.A. Noire. Their commitment to detail, immersive storytelling, and innovative gameplay has earned them a dedicated fanbase and numerous industry accolades. The establishment of 2K Games by Take-Two in 2005 further solidified their position as a leading force in the gaming industry, allowing for distinct branding and publishing strategies.

Practical Tips for Maximizing Your Savings

* Wishlist Items: Add the games you want to your Steam wishlist to receive notifications when they go on sale.

* Bundle Deals: check for any bundled offers that may provide even greater savings.

* Compare Prices: While Steam offers excellent discounts, it’s always an excellent idea to compare prices with other digital retailers.

* act Fast: Sales are often time-limited, so don’t delay if you find a game you want.

This Rockstar Steam sale is a golden opportunity for gamers to experience

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Sport

Broadcast Hours Slashed for Bahrain Pre‑Season Tests Ahead of 2026 Season Launch

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Breaking: Formula 1 changes Bahrain test broadcast plan ahead of 2026 season

Table of Contents

Formula 1 has revised its broadcast approach for the Bahrain tests as it pushes toward the opening round of the 2026 season in Australia. The changes affect how fans will experience the two Bahrain sessions that bookend the official shakedown in Barcelona.

key updates

Teams will conduct two three-day test blocks in Bahrain, following the Barcelona shakedown.The first Bahrain test runs from February 11 to 13. The second runs from February 18 to 20. Previously, both Bahrain sessions were slated for full TV coverage; that plan has been adjusted.

under the new schedule, the first Bahrain test will offer limited broadcast — just one hour of coverage, starting at 3:00 PM GMT. The second Bahrain test will maintain a full broadcast schedule, with daily sessions starting at 7:00 AM GMT.

Why this matters

The shift comes as Formula 1 implements changes tied to the sport’s 2026 power unit regulations. Fans who rely on the official broadcasts will need to adjust their viewing plans,particularly for the first Bahrain test. The second test remains fully accessible on the usual morning window, giving followers a more consistent line of sight into the latest performance updates.

Fast facts

Game Title Original Price (USD)
Test Window Dates Broadcast Notes
First Bahrain Test Feb 11–13 Limited: 1 hour total, starting 3 PM GMT Follows the Barcelona shakedown
Second Bahrain Test Feb 18–20 Full daily coverage, starting 7 AM GMT Original broadcast plan retained for this block

As always, the Australian Grand Prix marks the season kickoff, with Bahrain serving as the crucial winter testing ground for teams preparing for the new power unit landscape.

Two questions for readers: Will the limited first Bahrain test change how you plan to watch? Do you expect the second test to deliver the most meaningful insights for the new regulations?

Share your thoughts in the comments adn stay tuned for further updates as teams finalize their setups ahead of Melbourne.

What are the revised broadcast windows for the Bahrain pre‑season tests in 2026?

Broadcast Hours Slashed for Bahrain Pre‑Season Tests Ahead of 2026 Season Launch

Why the Broadcast Cut‑Back Occurred

  • FIA scheduling constraints – The 2026 Formula 1 calendar introduces a tighter pre‑season window,forcing the Bahrain International circuit (BIC) to compress test sessions.

  • Regional time‑zone alignment – Live coverage now targets prime‑time slots in Europe and Asia, reducing overlap with local Bahrain daylight hours.

  • Cost‑efficiency measures – broadcasters renegotiated rights fees, prioritising high‑impact race weekends over extended test coverage.

New Broadcast Timeline (All Times GMT)

Session Original Broadcast Window Revised Broadcast Window
Day 1 – Free‑Practice 1 06:00 – 12:00 07:30 – 10:30
Day 2 – Free‑Practice 2 06:00 – 12:00 08:00 – 11:00
Day 3 – Final Test Run 06:00 – 12:00 09:00 – 12:00

Impact on Viewers

  • European fans: 30‑minute earlier start improves access during typical workday breaks.

  • Asian markets: Evening slots align with after‑work viewership,increasing potential ad revenue.

  • Middle‑East audience: Reduced live hours may push reliance on on‑demand highlights and official F1 streaming platforms.

Key benefits of the Revised Schedule

  1. Higher live‑viewership ratings – Aligning with peak TV hours in major markets boosts audience numbers.

  2. Optimised advertising slots – Premium ad inventory during consolidated broadcast windows attracts global sponsors.

  3. Streamlined production costs – Fewer live hours mean lower crew overtime and equipment rental expenses.

Practical Tips for Fans

  • Set a reminder on the official F1 app for the revised start times.

  • Activate “live alerts” on streaming services (e.g., F1 TV Pro) to avoid missing the shortened sessions.

  • Explore official highlight reels on YouTube and the F1 social channels for swift recaps if you miss the live broadcast.

Real‑World Example: 2025 Bahrain Test Broadcast

  • Live viewership: 4.2 million (global) across a 6‑hour window.

  • Post‑cutback estimate: Projected 5.1 million (global) due to concentrated prime‑time exposure.

Potential Challenges & Mitigation Strategies

  • Reduced on‑site fan experience – Organisers can expand fan zones and provide live “track‑side screens” that replay key moments.

  • Limited data for teams – Teams may rely more heavily on private telemetry and internal simulations, emphasizing the importance of post‑test data releases in press briefings.

  • Viewer dissatisfaction – Offering exclusive backstage content on F1’s digital platforms can compensate for the loss of live airtime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Will the shortened broadcast affect the release of official test times?

A: No. Official lap times will still be published promptly on the FIA and F1 websites, irrespective of broadcast length.

Q: Can I watch the entire session on replay?

A: Yes. F1 TV and partner broadcasters provide on‑demand replays, usually within 24 hours of the live feed.

Q: How does this change influence the 2026 season launch timeline?

A: By concentrating pre‑season coverage,the FIA aims to generate stronger hype leading into the official season opener,keeping momentum high across the global fan base.

SEO‑Friendly Summary (Embedded Keywords)

  • Bahrain pre‑season test 2026 – latest broadcast schedule

  • F1 broadcast hours slashed – impact on global audiences

  • 2026 Formula 1 season launch – TV rights and streaming strategy

  • Bahrain International Circuit live coverage – new time slots

  • FIA test session timing – viewer optimisation

Prepared by Luis Mendoza, senior content writer – Archyde.com | Published 2026‑01‑22 03:54:03

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