Formula 1 drivers have shared their first impressions after the Barcelona shakedown of the 2026 cars, highlighting both challenges and excitements in the new regulations. Key aspects include energy management issues, handling differences, and powerful acceleration. While some features like active aerodynamics fell short of expectations, the cars still feel like high-performance racers.
The first pre-season test for Formula 1's 2026 cars took place at Barcelona, providing drivers with initial hands-on experience of the overhauled rules. These changes introduce more sustainable power units with a 50/50 split between internal combustion and electric power, alongside smaller, lighter chassis designs.
Energy management emerged as a significant factor, potentially affecting even qualifying sessions. Haas driver Esteban Ocon noted that full-throttle driving could hinder performance, stating, "If you stay full throttle, you are basically putting the handbrake at the end of the straight." Instead, lifting and coasting to harvest battery power might yield faster laps. Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli added that this approach feels unnatural in qualifying, where drivers push limits, and the battery's sensitivity to style requires adaptation.
Following other cars in corners proved challenging for some. Ollie Bearman from Haas said, "It was a bit more challenging to follow. It picked up quite a big shift in balance compared to clean air." Ocon echoed this, mentioning a loss of front load. However, George Russell from Mercedes observed improvements in high-speed corners due to reduced downforce and slower speeds, creating less wake.
On straights, overtaking could increase with large speed differentials. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff reported a 50km/h gap when Russell passed Franco Colapinto during long runs, calling it "super exciting." Russell warned of risks in low-visibility conditions but noted wet weather might mitigate issues through better energy harvesting.
Active aerodynamics, featuring adjustable front and rear wings, disappointed some. Ocon described it as merely an efficiency tool, akin to a front DRS, rather than true active aero like in the Pagani Huayra.
The electric boost felt "brutal," with Antonelli highlighting the acceleration from the 350kW motor. Ocon reached 355km/h entering Turn 1, describing the speed build as "insane."
Lighter cars—30kg less than 2025's 800kg, with a 200mm shorter wheelbase and 100mm narrower width—felt more nimble. Bearman appreciated the agility while retaining downforce, and Ocon likened it to the less snappy 2020s era.
Narrower tyres and high power raised concerns over degradation. Antonelli warned, "Smaller tyres, more power, degradation might be higher, especially for the rear tyres."
Mercedes technical director James Allison explained the new Overtake Mode, which enables extra energy harvesting and deployment in zones, independent of proximity. He said it's less potent than DRS, focusing on hybrid systems rather than aero, but the boost button delivers full electric power for attacks.
Despite changes, the cars avoid past issues like porpoising, easing physical strain—Russell joked, "My back is having an easier time." Ocon affirmed, "It’s still the fastest cars in the world," and Russell emphasized the evolving nature of F1 driving.
