Carlos Sainz Jr. has urged Formula 1 leadership to remain open-minded regarding the 2026 regulations as criticism over the new rules continues to grow within the paddock. Drivers and audiences alike have expressed frustration with the complicated energy management requirements imposed by the updated power unit regulations, which have created confusion both on and off the track.
Concerns from Drivers and Broadcasters Over Power Unit Complexity
Several drivers have voiced difficulties dealing with the aggressive energy recovery demands under the new system, while broadcasters have struggled to accurately convey the nuances to viewers. Former Ferrari driver Ivan Capelli shared his doubts on Sky Italia, noting the challenges in understanding driver behavior with the current car setup but expressed confidence that Liberty Media is working to improve graphical explanations of the on-track action.
“That’s true, even for us it’s currently very difficult to see what a driver is doing with these cars. But I trust the work Liberty Media is doing to clearly explain what’s happening on the track through graphic content.”
– Ivan Capelli, Former Ferrari Driver
FIA Considers Adjustments in Response to Testing Feedback
Reports indicate that the FIA is already exploring contingency plans. During recent testing in Bahrain, teams were asked to trial a reduction in peak electric motor power to evaluate whether this could serve as a potential fallback. This indicates that governing bodies may consider fine-tuning the regulations if they prove too demanding or detract from the racing spectacle.
Sainz Calls for Regulatory Flexibility to Address Performance Issues
Speaking with DAZN, Sainz emphasized that flexibility should be prioritized early in the season to prevent excessive constraints. He detailed how the current power recovery requirements have slowed performance compared to the prior year, with brief bursts of power on straights quickly giving way to energy depletion that requires complex recovery within a single lap.
“My message to FOM and the FIA is generally that we should remain somewhat open-minded at the beginning of the year in case the regulations we have drawn up regarding the recovery time we have to make in one lap are a bit excessive.”
He added further:
“Everything I’ve tried is very different and slower than it was last season. Overall, everything is a bit worse. We have a little more power for two or three seconds on the straight than last year, but then it cuts out quickly and we have to recover all that energy.”
“All I ask is that they be open-minded. If the power-to-energy ratio isn’t ideal or suitable for some circuits, they should be flexible so we don’t have to do strange things on the straights.”
– Carlos Sainz Jr., Ferrari Driver
Some Voices Urge Patience Amid Early Criticism
Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher cautioned against hasty judgment of the new regulations. He reminded stakeholders that initial reactions to major changes often skew negative but could improve over time. Schumacher highlighted the strategic intent behind the rule changes, aimed at attracting new manufacturers including Audi, Honda, and General Motors.
“We’ve often seen that when new regulations are introduced, people judge too hastily.”
He also stressed the importance of remembering the rationale behind the new rules:
“We mustn’t forget why these rules were introduced. This decision was definitely the right one.”
– Ralf Schumacher, Former F1 Driver
Formula 1 CEO Confident Despite Calls for Rule Revisions
Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, rejected suggestions that the season requires immediate regulatory changes. In his view, the spectacle remains intact and the fastest competitor will ultimately prevail, regardless of the energy management challenges.
“I’m sure we’ll see another incredible spectacle this year.”
“From a fan’s perspective, I see no difference. As always, the fastest driver will win in the end.”
– Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1
CEO Discusses Concerns with Max Verstappen but Rules Out Major Changes
Domenicali confirmed he has engaged in a constructive dialogue with Max Verstappen following the Dutchman’s pointed comparison of the cars to “Formula E on steroids.” While acknowledging Verstappen as a key voice for the sport’s future, Domenicali emphasized the importance of allowing the season to develop before considering drastic modifications.
“We had a constructive conversation. Max is the future of Formula 1. That’s why it’s important that we listen to him.”
“Before we start thinking about a Plan B, we should let the season begin. Whenever the rules change drastically, there are doubts. In the end, there are technical solutions for everything.”
– Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1
