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Lewis Hamilton Voices Concerns About F1’s Future Amid 2026 Regulation Changes
Seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton has expressed deep concerns about the future of the sport as it heads towards significant regulation changes in 2026. Speaking to Sky Sports F1, the Mercedes driver revealed he is uneasy about the direction the sport is taking, particularly with the increased emphasis on electric power and other technical alterations.
The upcoming 2026 regulations will see a major overhaul in how Formula 1 cars are designed and powered. A greater focus on sustainability means cars will rely more heavily on electrical power, and the overall design will be altered to produce lighter, more compact, and environmentally conscious vehicles. While these efforts aim to align the sport with global trends toward carbon neutrality, Hamilton is skeptical about what these changes will mean for the racing experience — both for drivers and fans.
Hamilton, who turned 40 this year, made it clear that he is already struggling with the current generation of cars, which he described as the heaviest he’s ever raced. He acknowledged that there are plans to reduce weight in the next iteration, but overall, he fears the sport is moving backwards in terms of performance and excitement.
“I don’t think it’s going in the right direction personally, but maybe I’ll be surprised next year,” Hamilton said. “Maybe we’ll arrive and the cars are really nice. But the way it’s going right now, we’re going slower, the cars are getting heavier.”
He also voiced disappointment in the current sound of the power units. Since Formula 1 transitioned from V8 and V10 engines to the quieter turbo-hybrid V6s, many fans and drivers have lamented the loss of the sport’s once-iconic roar. With the new regulations expected to make the engines even quieter, Hamilton fears this will further dilute the visceral, emotional experience that made F1 so thrilling.
“I miss the sound,” he added. “When you hear a V12 Ferrari it’s like ‘argh’ — it’s the passion.” He fondly recalled the era of fellow seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, particularly his years at Ferrari, when the deafening growl of the engine added to the spectacle and intensity of racing.
Hamilton’s comments come at a time when Formula 1 is trying to balance its push for innovation and sustainability with the need to preserve the heritage and excitement that have defined the sport for decades. While some support the move toward greener technologies, others — like Hamilton — believe it shouldn’t come at the cost of the core elements that make F1 unique.
As the sport prepares for another major evolution, Hamilton’s words serve as a reminder that the passion and history of Formula 1 must not be forgotten in the pursuit of a cleaner, more futuristic series. Whether the 2026 regulations will enhance or hinder the racing experience remains to be seen — but for now, one of the sport’s greatest champions is not convinced.
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