F1 2026 Rule Overhaul: Why Carlos Sainz Thinks the FIA is Overcomplicating Everything
Carlos Sainz has voiced some strong opinions about the FIA's proposed regulations for the 2026 Formula 1 season, accusing the governing body of 'playing around too much.' These new regulations, released ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, aim to integrate seamlessly with previously confirmed power unit rules, featuring a 50/50 power split hybrid power unit.
What's New in 2026?
One of the highlights of the proposed regulations is the introduction of movable aerodynamic elements on both the front and rear wings. This innovation aims to allow cars to shift into a 'low-drag' mode on straights. It’s a design ingenuity aimed at countering energy conservation concerns associated with the new power units.
Sainz, however, seems unimpressed by these changes. Speaking during the Spanish Grand Prix press conference, he commented, “From what I’ve seen, it just seems to me a bit exaggerated what we’re trying to do in 2026. We’re manipulating downforce here and there,” said Sainz, who implied the regulations are becoming too convoluted.
The Criticisms
“50% hybrid and combustion, I don’t know. It seems extreme, and I’m curious to see what they come up with. But if it has managed to attract Audi as a manufacturer, and make Honda stay, it’s also good for F1. So let’s see,” Sainz added.
Sainz isn’t the only one with concerns. The FIA has confirmed consultations with teams to address these issues. His former teammate Lando Norris also expressed worries that the new regulations would result in a more spread-out field, effectively undoing the convergence achieved under the current set of rules.
“I think it’s no secret that when you bring such a different power unit that we’re bringing in ’26, plus such a different aero, tires, weight, and concept of car, the field will spread again,” Sainz explained. But he quickly added that the FIA seems determined to prevent any drastic disparities by tightening the regulations further.
Industry Perspectives
For all the skepticism, there’s cautious optimism among some in the industry. If new regulations could lure automotive giants like Audi and retain existing ones like Honda, that’s a win for the sport in terms of financial stability and technological advancements.
Sainz, however, remains unsure if tighter regulations would work as intended. “We kind of said the same about ‘22 and look what happened. So they seem to be always tightening, tightening it up and see if it works. I don’t know,” he noted.
What's clear from these comments is that the upcoming 2026 rule changes have stirred the pot considerably. While the intent behind these regulations aims to maintain competitiveness and technological advancement, the execution and its impacts remain a topic of hot debate.
As the FIA continues to refine these rules, drivers, teams, and fans alike will be watching closely to see how these changes will shape the future of Formula 1. Will the new regulations enhance the race experience, or will they unravel the competitive balance that the sport has worked hard to achieve? Only time will tell.