F1 2026 Regulations: Newey Reveals The Controversial Influence Behind The Scenes

Adrian Newey, an iconic figure in Formula 1 design and the outgoing Chief Technical Officer at Red Bull, recently shed light on the contentious influences behind the 2026 F1 technical regulations. According to Newey, the FIA has been 'heavily influenced' by 'one or two manufacturers,' significantly shaping the new rules. The intent behind these compromises, Newey believes, is to make the sport more attractive to new manufacturers, especially as F1 faces a pivotal reset.

Compromise or Complicity?

While the idea of attracting more manufacturers might sound beneficial at first glance, Newey remains skeptical. He argues that brands are inherently fickle and often 'come and go' in the racing world. “At the moment, they look a slightly strange set of regulations but to write them off and say therefore they won’t be good, it’s way too premature,” Newey told Autosport.

Instead of immediately casting judgment, Newey believes that designers should adapt and meet the challenges posed by these new guidelines. For him, the enduring commitment should be to the sport itself, even if that means navigating through what he considers to be a compromised set of rules.

The 50/50 Powertrain Debate

A significant talking point in the 2026 regulations is the proposed 50/50 split between electric and horsepower in the new powertrains. Newey expressed discomfort, noting that such a change would drastically increase reliance on the chassis. “It’s certainly going to be a strange formula in as much as the engines will be working flat-chat as generators just about the whole time,” he expanded.

The prospect of engines working hard even in the slowest corners, like the Loews hairpin, is something that F1 teams will have to adjust to. Further adding to the complexity is that these engine regulations were implemented without considering their impact on the chassis, which now needs significant reengineering to accommodate the changes.

Efficiency Over Everything

Despite his reservations, Newey admitted that the new regulations do have the potential to drive efficiency, a critical concern in modern motorsport. “But I think the one good thing is that it does promote efficiency,” he admitted. Anything that supports and encourages efficiency aligns with global trends and environmental imperatives, making F1 more relevant and appealing to a broader audience.

Yet, this efficiency comes at a cost. Newey questioned whether the FIA's desire to attract manufacturers is worth the trade-offs, especially when the focus should be on creating the best possible rules for the sport. “I suppose since Audi are coming in for 2026 there has been a partial success in this regard, but I’m not sure it’s worth the overall compromise of what could be achieved,” he lamented.

The Core of F1: Teams and Fans

One of Newey’s critical points was the importance of core teams and the viewing public. “The reality is manufacturers come and go, with the exception of Ferrari,” he said, emphasizing that while manufacturers might bring temporary glamour, it’s the teams and the fans that keep F1 alive.

He stressed that the sport must continue to deliver a great show, rewarding variety and consistently engaging its audience. “So it’s essential we provide a good show and as part of that variety is proven to be well rewarded,” Newey concluded.

The 2026 regulations have ignited a debate not only about the technology of the future but also the philosophical direction of Formula 1. As stakeholders weigh the benefits of new partnerships against the challenges these rules present, Newey's insights offer a compelling critique of the compromises that shape the world's premier motorsport.