Drivers express concerns about energy management but see potential for improvement in upcoming seasons
Category: Business
Carlos Sainz Jr. believes that Formula 1’s controversial 2026 regulations could evolve into a more thrilling spectacle, even as leading drivers express skepticism about the new energy-based racing format. Speaking in Madrid on September 10, 2026, Sainz noted that the current system has not yet convinced many drivers, who question how much skill is required under the new rules.
One of the prominent criticisms comes from reigning world champion Max Verstappen, who highlighted that the new cars are easier for newcomers to adapt to. He pointed out that traditional advantages, such as braking technique and corner entry, have been diluted due to the emphasis on energy management and push-button overtaking. Verstappen's concerns echo a broader sentiment among drivers who feel that the essence of racing is being altered.
Nevertheless, Sainz argues that there is a silver lining. He stated, "There’s a huge difference between last year’s F1 and this year’s. But it’s an F1 that the fans don’t dislike. In fact, the last few races have been fun." This perspective suggests that, regardless of driver apprehensions, the audience is responding positively to the changes, which have led to closer competition and variation in race outcomes.
Drivers have voiced discomfort with the notion of overtaking being primarily reliant on pressing a button to gain an energy advantage. Sainz remarked, "We drivers aren’t entirely convinced by the idea of just pressing a button and overtaking another car, but we’re getting used to it." He believes that with some modest adjustments in the regulations over the next two seasons, Formula 1 could become significantly more exciting.
The 2026 regulations introduced a fundamental shift in Formula 1, emphasizing electrical energy deployment and the use of driver-controlled modes to create overtaking opportunities. This change has been met with mixed reactions from the drivers, many of whom argue that it shifts the competitive focus away from traditional racing skills such as braking and corner entry.
Sainz explained that the adjustment to the new system requires drivers to be more strategic in their use of electrical energy. They must carefully plan how to deploy their battery power when overtaking and defending positions. "In this Formula 1 we are always watching the battery. That is the big change," he said. This new dynamic means that drivers must execute overtakes and manage their energy reserves to maintain their positions afterward.
Recent races have demonstrated that the current regulations can produce entertaining events, even if some drivers are not fully on board with the mechanisms of overtaking. The public’s response has been more favorable than that of the competitors, indicating that the regulations may have succeeded in attracting fan engagement, at least in the short term.
Looking ahead, Sainz expressed hope that modest changes in 2027 and 2028 could improve the balance between energy management and traditional driving skills. He emphasized that the regulations were intentionally crafted to allow for development during their early seasons, meaning that a complete technical reset is not necessary for enhancements.
One of Sainz’s personal aspirations involves the performance of his team, Williams, and fellow competitor Aston Martin. He hopes for both teams to close the gap to the leading squads, which would make the races more competitive and broaden the scope of the competition, regardless of how overtakes occur. "I hope that both Williams and Aston Martin take a step forward that brings us closer to the top," he stated.
The upcoming race at the Madrid circuit is expected to be a telling test for the 2026 system. With its unique angled braking zones, the track may challenge the effectiveness of the new overtaking mechanisms and reveal whether the current regulations can adapt to maintain competitive racing.
As the season progresses, the adjustments and reactions to the 2026 regulations will be closely monitored by both fans and participants. Whether the changes will lead to a more balanced and skillful racing environment is uncertain, but Sainz's optimism hints at a potential for improvement that could resonate throughout the sport.