The FIA is considering potential tweaks to the 2026 Formula 1 regulations following mixed feedback from drivers during pre-season testing. While some drivers like Lando Norris and George Russell have praised the new cars, others including Max Verstappen, Fernando Alonso, and Lewis Hamilton have raised concerns about energy management and racing purity. FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis stated that 90% of the work is satisfactory but emphasized openness to changes based on early race data.
Formula 1's pre-season testing in Bahrain has highlighted divided opinions on the 2026 car specifications. Drivers tested the new machinery, prompting varied reactions. Lando Norris and George Russell expressed positive views, whereas Max Verstappen criticized the energy limitations, noting that drivers who approve could fit in a small 'easy-up tent,' implying a minority. Norris acknowledged it is not the purest form of racing. Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton also voiced criticisms.
FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis addressed these concerns, stating the cars represent a significant improvement over simulator feedback from last summer and autumn. 'The comments in Barcelona and in Bahrain are certainly much better than what people [said based] on the simulator,' he said. Tombazis indicated that while 90% of the regulations are on track, adjustments may be needed, particularly regarding energy deployment and harvesting. Potential changes could allow drivers to recover more energy per lap, addressing complaints of being 'energy poor' on straights, without requiring hardware alterations—focusing instead on software and power unit operation.
Tombazis emphasized a collective approach: 'We are completely conscious that we may need to make adjustments. That has been a discussion we've been open about with the teams and the PU manufacturers for a long, long time. And with the drivers, indeed.' He cautioned against overreaction, noting the 50-50 power split between internal combustion and electrical systems has known challenges since 2022, but much work has mitigated them.
The FIA plans to assess performance after the first races, starting with the Australian Grand Prix on March 8, 2026. Any changes would involve discussions and governance processes, unlikely to occur immediately between races like Australia and China, but not delayed for months. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali echoed calls for calm, stating, 'We need to avoid overreaction because it's just the beginning of a new journey.' He highlighted the importance of listening to drivers like Verstappen, who cares deeply about the sport.
