Esteban Ocon confirms the worry of many F1 fans that lifting off will become a standard part of the new 2026 regulations. Even during qualifying laps, when drivers are racing the clock, the next-generation cars will benefit from easing off the throttle occasionally, in particular to recharge the advanced hybrid system. According to Ocon, drivers adapt quickly and, besides, it’s the fastest way to race.
After the first shakedown in Barcelona – during which Haas notably completed a large number of laps with the new VF-26 – Esteban Ocon delivered an initial reaction to the new regulations. The Frenchman had earlier raised questions about the active aerodynamics, which he described as “DRS at the front.” He admitted that managing the energy system requires more adjustments than expected.
“Even during qualifying laps we have to lift-and-coast,” Ocon said after the private test days. “It felt a bit odd at first, but we had already practised it in the simulator. After one lap I had it under control. Now it actually feels strange not to do it. We use it so often that you quickly get used to that driving style.” Although easing off the throttle may sound slower than heavy braking, the Haas driver insisted it is the quickest option in these cars. “If you keep your foot on the throttle you have to brake very hard at the end of the straight,” he explained. “With lift-and-coast that’s reduced. It even feels faster if you lift earlier.”
‘It’s still Formula 1’
Ocon also shrugged off criticism from fans who fear this driving style clashes with the character of Formula 1. “If you can point me to somewhere that has even faster cars, let me know,” he said with a wink. “As drivers we simply optimise the tools at our disposal. If this driving style is the fastest, we apply it. It’s still Formula 1.”
Still, the 29-year-old driver voiced concerns. “I did a few laps behind other cars,” he added. “It was harder to follow. There’s a noticeable change in balance compared with running in clean air, perhaps even stronger than with the previous generation. It’s early days, but that was my first impression.” The new overtaking mode, which gives drivers an electrical boost during battles, hasn’t convinced him either. “At the moment overtaking looks rather difficult,” he concluded. “Even though the system is still being optimised.”
