Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed confidence that the series will adjust its new 2026 technical regulations to address concerns from drivers and fans. He highlighted increased overtaking and growing global interest despite issues in qualifying sessions. Stakeholders are meeting to implement short-term changes ahead of the Miami Grand Prix.
Formula 1 introduced major technical changes for 2026, emphasizing a near 50-50 split between internal combustion engines and hybrid power, sustainable fuels, active aerodynamics, and smaller, lighter cars with reduced downforce. These rules have boosted overtaking in the season's first three grands prix in Australia, China, and Japan, but raised worries over qualifying performance. Drivers must lift-and-coast in fast corners to recharge batteries, diluting the sessions, while higher closing speeds contributed to a high-speed crash involving Haas driver Oliver Bearman in Japan, according to reports from the races. F1 metrics show positive trends, with sold-out events, higher attendance, and a 25% year-on-year increase in TV viewership in key markets. Fan surveys indicate strong enthusiasm for the added racing action, Domenicali said in an interview in London with Autosport. Speaking exclusively to Autosport, Domenicali insisted the championship is on the right track with solid foundations. 'I can see an incredible result in terms of positivity from the bigger fan base on what is the effect on the racing,' he said. He acknowledged qualifying criticisms and noted ongoing work with drivers, teams, and the FIA for adjustments without panic. Meetings this week and next aim for changes before Miami, focusing on full-power qualifying and driver safety concerns. The regulations stemmed from manufacturer demands five years ago to balance electrification and combustion engines, attracting Audi, Ford, General Motors, and Honda while Renault exited. Domenicali dismissed baseless criticism as having 'zero effect' and defended overtaking gains by comparing them to fuel-saving tactics in the 1980s turbo era and past DRS use. 'Overtaking is overtaking,' he stressed.
