Switch off or ramp up? How the smartest F1 drivers managed the summer break

Formula 1's expanded calendar and late triple-header in the 2026 season have made managing the summer break a scientific necessity for drivers. George Russell, speaking after a difficult Hungarian Grand Prix where a technical issue derailed his race, admitted he genuinely needed the rest this year. Pierre Gasly echoed similar sentiments following a frustrating run of races with his Alpine performing inconsistently.