BREAKING: Ferrari Predicts Major Shake-Up with 2026 F1 R…read more
BREAKING: Ferrari Predicts Major Shake-Up with 2026 F1 R…read more
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has warned that the upcoming 2026 Formula 1 regulations could lead to greater differences in performance across the grid, as the sport undergoes one of its biggest transformations in decades.
The new rules will introduce a fresh set of chassis and aerodynamic designs, along with hybrid power units that split power evenly between the combustion engine and electric motor. The cars will also be built to be more compact and agile.
These changes are aimed at keeping F1 in line with automotive industry trends, particularly around sustainability and electrification, and have helped attract manufacturers like Audi, Cadillac, and the returning Honda.
However, Vasseur cautions that such a major overhaul may initially hurt competitiveness. “It’s probably the biggest change F1 has seen in 25 years,” he said. “Teams are heading in different directions, and we don’t know yet how things will play out. The racing may not be as close as it is today.”
He pointed out that the current grid is very tightly packed, with only a few tenths separating many cars. But in 2026, he expects larger gaps to emerge. Still, Vasseur emphasized that adapting and improving is part of the sport’s nature. “That’s the DNA of F1 to evolve and try to catch up,” he noted.
Recent concerns from teams led to discussions with F1 leadership and the FIA. While ideas like scrapping hybrids in favor of V10 engines were considered, the decision was made to stick with the planned hybrid V6 formula.
Aston Martin team principal Andy Cowell, formerly the head of Mercedes’ dominant power unit program, agrees that the 2026 changes will shake up the pecking order, but he remains optimistic.
“There will definitely be surprises both good and bad but that’s what makes F1 exciting,” Cowell said. He also praised the new rules for bringing in fresh manufacturers and encouraging technological progress. “It’s great to see companies like Honda and Audi investing in innovation. This will be a fascinating new chapter for the sport.”
