F1 News Today: Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari get major title boost as key figure leaves Mercedes

Lewis Hamilton sits second in the 2026 F1 drivers' standings with 169 points, 50 points behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli, and could receive a title boost as Antonelli and George Russell face engine penalties later this season. Talent scout Gwen Lagrue has officially departed Mercedes and will join Red Bull from 2027, following the footsteps of Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko, who helped nurture Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen to four world titles each. Meanwhile, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff is set for an estimated £34 million dividend payout following the team's record 2025 financial results, adding to the £230 million he realised from selling part of his team stake in November.