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F1 Considers Regulatory Changes to 2026 Power Units

Formula 1 is set to engage in further discussions regarding a late regulatory modification concerning the new power units scheduled for 2026, a matter which has drawn criticism from prominent figures in the sport, including Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, who referred to the proposal as “a joke.”

During a recent F1 Commission meeting held on Thursday, representatives from engine manufacturers for the upcoming season deliberated on reducing the electrical energy provision outlined in the 2026 regulations.

A vote was anticipated but ultimately did not take place. To modify the existing regulations, a majority, specifically four out of five engine manufacturers—Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull-Ford Powertrains, Audi, and Honda—would have had to support the proposal.

According to the FIA, “The F1 Commission discussed in principle refinements to the energy management strategy for 2026, as well as measures to address financial issues that can be faced by Power Unit Manufacturers that experience either low performance or significant reliability issues in 2026.” The organization further noted that these topics will undergo more in-depth examination among appropriate advisory committees.

The forthcoming 2026 regulations are set to bifurcate power unit output equally between the internal combustion engine and electricity, marking a notable increase from the current power units, which utilize approximately 20 percent electric energy.

Currently, the proposed changes would reduce the electrical motor’s power from 350kW to 200kW during races, shifting the balance to a 60-40 ratio. This proposal arises from concerns that drivers could exhaust their battery power on circuits with long straights, necessitating a ‘lift and coast’ strategy before entering braking zones.

Additionally, the F1 Commission disclosed plans to explore alternative skid block materials for cars to mitigate the risk of grass fires, such as those witnessed during the Japanese Grand Prix when sparks ignited dry grass.

Wolff Critiques Proposal Amid Mixed Reactions from Team Leaders

Mercedes is perceived to be ahead of the competition as they prepare for the significant regulatory overhaul slated for 2026, which represents the most extensive change in F1 history, with nearly all technical regulations being revised. Earlier this month, team leaders convened to discuss future power unit regulations, concluding that there would be no changes for the immediate next season.

When asked about the latest proposal during the press conference following the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Wolff shared his unambiguous critique, stating, “Reading the agenda of the F1 Commission is almost as hilarious as reading some of the comments that I see on Twitter on American politics. I really want to protect ourselves and make no comment, but it’s a joke. A week ago, there was an engine meeting and then things like this end up on the agenda again.”

Overview of F1 Teams and Engines for 2026

As Red Bull embarks on a new chapter with Ford, culminating in the development of their own Red Bull Powertrain engine, team principal Christian Horner remarked that the proposal seemed “pretty sensible,” though it should have been examined earlier. He pointed out that this discussion originated from inquiries made two years prior.

“The FIA have conducted thorough research, aiming to avoid excessive ‘lifting and coasting’ during races, which could detract from the sport and frustrate drivers. Although we have not actively pushed for this change, it is essential for the sport’s integrity,” Horner noted.

In contrast, Ferrari’s Frederic Vasseur and McLaren’s Andrea Stella expressed a welcoming stance towards the proposed changes. Vasseur emphasized the need for transparency and a collaborative approach to deter potential misunderstandings over battery advantages among teams. “If we don’t maintain a good competitive environment, we risk the future of F1,” he stated.

Stella added that ensuring the success of the 2026 regulations should be a collective responsibility among stakeholders to uphold the quality of racing and the overall spectacle of the sport. He urged open dialogue to address various facets including overtaking, power deployment, and harvesting techniques, which ultimately dictate the racing experience.

Formula 1 will next head to Miami for a Sprint weekend from May 2-4, live on Sky Sports F1. Stream Sky Sports with NOW – No contract, cancel anytime

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