Why are these top F1 drivers slower than their team-mates?

Why are these top F1 drivers slower than their team-mates?

Author: Motor Sport July 30, 2026 Duration: 44:55

Oscar Piastri and George Russell have both led the Formula 1 World Championship in the past 12 months, so why are these top-level drivers unable to get on terms with their team-mates?


And how is Lewis Hamilton now looking to have the edge over Charles Leclerc after a crushing 2025 season?


Mark Hughes outlines new evidence that emerged during the Hungarian Grand Prix to explain the sometime disparity between the drivers at Mercedes, McLaren and Ferrari.


Last weekend's race also generated some much-needed good news at Aston Martin, which made it into the second stage of qualifying for the first time this season, courtesy of Fernando Alonso. Its aerodynamic upgrades have worked; can an improved Honda engine put the team amongst the front-runners?


In the latest episode of the Motor Sport F1 Show, Mark and Bryn Lucas also ask whether Niki Lauda's sensational recovery from his horrific fireball crash at the Nürburgring, 50 years ago, represents racing's greatest comeback.


And what viewer question does Mark rate as the best he's ever been sent?


Listen to find out - and see what you make of the answer.


Subscribe now for every weekly episode and tell us what you want to know from Mark. Send us a message on social media or find this podcast at https://go.motorsportmagazine.com/4hFb8kc and drop your questions in the comments. He'll answer a selection of the best every week.


Read Mark's column every Wednesday at https://go.motorsportmagazine.com/4hFb8kc


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Each week, the Motor Sport F1 Show with Mark Hughes cuts through the noise of the Formula 1 paddock. Hosted by Bryn Lucas and featuring the unparalleled insight of grand prix editor Mark Hughes, this podcast offers a clear-eyed analysis of what truly defines the sport’s relentless narrative. The conversation moves beyond mere headlines and podium finishes to examine the technical innovations, strategic gambles, and human stories that decide races. Regular guests join the discussion, providing depth to the latest events and previewing the critical topics on the horizon. It’s a dialogue for those who appreciate that F1 is as much about engineering genius and political maneuvering as it is about pure speed. This Motor Sport production delivers authoritative context, whether breaking down a controversial ruling, a rival team’s sudden performance leap, or the long-term implications of a new regulation. For listeners seeking a sophisticated and nuanced take, this show serves as an essential weekly debrief. The feed also features other series from Motor Sport, with contributions from iconic figures in the racing world, making it a comprehensive hub for motorsport audio. Tune in for a consistently detailed and engaging perspective on the world’s fastest competition.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Motor Sport F1 Show with Mark Hughes
Podcast Episodes
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Dario Franchitti is the latest to make an appearance on our special podcast series, celebrating 100 years of Motor Sport magazine.The Scot is one of Britain's most successful IndyCar drivers, claiming three Indianapolis…
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Damon Hill is Rob Widdows' latest guest in our special podcast series, celebrating 100 years of Motor Sport Magazine.The 1996 Formula 1 World Champion reflects on following his father's footsteps into the world of Grand…
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A five-time grand prix winner who partnered the likes of Niki Lauda and Alain Prost, John Watson came achingly close to winning the 1982 Formula 1 World Championship.He's Rob Widdows' latest guest in a special podcast se…