- The FIA has been advised that adjustments to the 2026 F1 engine regulations are no longer feasible.
- Current technical rules need refining to enhance car performance.
- Manufacturers have already invested significant time in developing the 2026 power units.
- There’s a divide among teams regarding potential changes, with some firmly opposing any tweaks.
The FIA’s plans to tweak Formula 1’s 2026 engine regulations have hit a snag. During the Canadian Grand Prix, it emerged that manufacturers believe it’s too late to make significant changes. The focus was on perhaps increasing fuel flow limitations to boost power and lessen battery dependence.
Nikolas Tombazis, FIA’s single-seater director, hinted at potential flexibility from manufacturers. He stated, ‘If there are some tweaks needed, I’m quite confident the PU manufacturers would help and be collaborative.’ However, any amendments require unanimous agreement, and some manufacturers have already signaled their opposition due to the advanced state of their work.
Mercedes’ team principal, Toto Wolff, made it clear that altering power unit regulations is no longer viable. ‘On the power unit side, the ship has sailed,’ Wolff said. He mentioned that while some teams feel disadvantaged, others believe they’ve efficiently tackled the regulations. Wolff added, ‘I think on the chassis side there are tweaks that are possible that we need to do. But, on the engine side, the process is far too advanced.’
Bruno Famin of Alpine echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the extensive work manufacturers have put in over two years. ‘We need to be careful because on the chassis side, almost nothing is done – because there is no regulation,’ Famin explained. ‘But on the PU, we have two years of work.’
Red Bull’s Christian Horner, while open to changes, acknowledged the resistance from other teams like Mercedes. He urged the FIA to make decisions that prioritize the overall benefit of F1. ‘There is always one that doesn’t want to change,’ Horner said. ‘But that is down to the FIA. As I say, it is never too late. They have all the knowledge and simulations. You have got to look at what is best for F1 at the end of the day and what will produce the best racing.’
The debate among F1 teams and manufacturers indicates that while some are open to changes, others believe it’s too late, and the regulations should remain as they are.
Source: Motorsport
