The FIA recently unveiled the long-awaited chassis regulations for 2026. The first impressions of the new generation of Formula 1 cars have been met with a fair share of criticism. Drivers are questioning whether the cars will become ‘extremely slow’ compared to previous years. To ensure speed, the FIA could adjust the engine regulations, but the teams are not looking forward to such changes.
Not many drivers reacted enthusiastically when the FIA unveiled the next generation of Formula 1 cars. “Too much fuss,” was the verdict of reigning world champion Max Verstappen. Other drivers complained that the cars are at risk of becoming ‘extremely slow’. FIA chief Nikolas Tombazis assured during the race weekend in Canada that the various engine suppliers would ‘undoubtedly be helpful’ in the event of adjustments.
Team Leaders’ Opinions on the New Regulations
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff, however, disagrees. “The engine regulations are a thing of the past,” he responded sternly. “We can still adjust the chassis, but we are too far along with the development of the engine to change anything now.”
Alpine team boss Bruno Famin is also not waiting for changes. “The chassis is still exciting,” he said. “After all, we had to wait so long for the new regulations. But we have been working on the engines for two years.” The new engine regulations – where the power is evenly distributed between a battery and an internal combustion engine – were already announced in 2022.
Red Bull’s Stance on the New Regulations
Christian Horner is less negative. If the rules were to be adjusted, the Red Bull team boss sees few problems. “There will always be teams that don’t want to change anything,” he referred to age-old rival Mercedes. “But the FIA decides. They have the knowledge and carry out the simulations.”
