Q&A Special: Harry Benjamin, Alice Powell, and Andrew Benson

The BBC’s F1: Chequered Flag podcast released a Q&A special on April 9, 2026, featuring analysis from Harry Benjamin, British racing driver Alice Powell, and BBC F1 correspondent Andrew Benson. The episode arrives as Formula 1 undergoes an enforced break in its schedule.

The special episode focuses on fan-submitted questions regarding the trajectory of the 2026 season and the future of the sport’s most prominent drivers. Among the primary topics discussed were the prospects of Lewis Hamilton winning a race in 2026 and potential candidates to replace Max Verstappen should he decide to leave Formula 1 at the conclusion of the season.

Season Disruptions and Calendar Changes

The podcast takes place during a hiatus caused by the cancellations of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix. The panel used the special to provide nostalgic perspectives and discuss current issues impacting the sport during this unplanned gap in the racing calendar.

In addition to driver speculation, Benjamin, Powell, and Benson addressed questions regarding circuit preferences and which venues fans and experts would like to see included on the official F1 calendar. The discussion also touched upon the aesthetic history of the sport, specifically regarding favorite F1 cars and liveries.

Recent Analysis and Upcoming Events

The Q&A special follows previous coverage from the podcast, including a review of the Japanese Grand Prix qualifying session. That analysis specifically examined the performance of Kimi Antonelli and George Russell, as well as the struggles faced by Max Verstappen during that event.

Formula 1 is scheduled to return to action at the start of May for the Miami Grand Prix. Live commentary for the event will be provided across the BBC Sounds platform and the 5 Live network.

The panel’s discussions during the April 9 episode focused on several key areas of interest for the 2026 season:

• Whether Lewis Hamilton can secure a race victory in 2026.
• The potential replacement for Max Verstappen if he departs the sport at the end of the season.
• Ideal additions or changes to the racing calendar circuits.
• Evaluations of historical F1 car designs and team liveries.