Hi ,

Max Verstappen believes sim racing plays a key role in developing future racing talent. If you missed his thoughts in last week’s blog, today’s newsletter includes a link to that column. Episode 3 of the podcast also launches this week—be sure to tune in and subscribe if you want to learn about the importance of branding.

This is what else I covered last week.

Audi Launches Driver Development Program

Audi has launched a driver development program and in last week’s Driver Development Roundup you will find out why. I also have advice on the mindset you need to achieve your goals, why quitting is not an option and more! Click here to read all of last week's driver development news.

Getting That First Motorsport Sponsor

Getting that first motorsport sponsor is key and in last week's Business of Being a Race Driver you will get advice from pros that have been there. You will also learn why legal advice is important before signing a contract plus more motorsport sponsorship advice! Click here to read all this and more.

Prototype Cup Europe Introduced For 2026

The Prototype Cup Europe is being introduced by Creventic for 2026 and in last week’s Racecraft & Race Cars Roundup I have the details. I also have more racecraft tips, 2026 calendar news and details on the new Aston Martin Experiences program. Click here to read all the racecraft tips and more.

Max Verstappen Says Sim Racing Shapes Future Talent

Max Verstappen says that sim racing will shape future racing talent, and David Cook from Racing Prodigy agrees. Find out why in last week's edition of the Sim Racing Roundup. I also have advice on setting up a sim rig in a small room with a small budget and much more! Click here to read what Max has to say.

Formula E’s Influencer Marketing Strategy

Formula E’s influencer strategy is just one of the topics covered in last week’s Sustainable Motorsport Roundup. I also have details on the new IMSA Michelin Sustainability in Racing Award, sustainable race fuel at the gas pumps and more. Click here to read all the recent sustainable motorsport developments.

Alex Palou Ordered to Pay McLaren $12M Over Contract Breach

Alex Palou has been ordered to pay McLaren $12M over a contract breach case and I have all the details in last week’s Business of Motorsport Roundup. I also have details on Christian Horner’s interest in Alpine, the latest motorsport sponsorship deals and who owns biometric data in F1? Click here to read all the latest motorsport legal news and more.

The Week Ahead

This week on News Racers Can Use features:

• The Importance of Character When Under Pressure
• Shift Up Now Foundation Announces Sponsorship Grant Applications Now Open for 2026
• The Cost of a European F4 Seat in 2026
• Why You Need To Stand Out When Creating Your Personal Brand
• And much more!

Quote of the Week

"The day you think there is no improvements to be made is a sad one for any driver." – Sebastian Vettel

The Last Lap

Before Brawn: The F1 car Honda would have made

The Brawn BGP001 achieved success beyond anyone’s imagination after Ross Brawn’s famous £1 takeover of the Honda Formula 1 team, but before the giant manufacturer decided to pull the plug on its F1 efforts, it had already undertaken extensive research and development on another potential 2009 challenger. Goodwood Road & Racing look at the Honda RA109 and what could have been.

To your success on track and off!

Mark Boudreau

Motorsport Solutions Architect at Motorsport Prospects