FIA’s Bold 2026 F1 Engine Overhaul: Will Manufacturers Play Ball?

The FIA's Single Seater Director, Nikolas Tombazis, has expressed strong confidence that manufacturers will align to adapt the upcoming 2026 Formula 1 power unit regulations if necessary. This assertion comes in light of recent debates sparked by McLaren Team Principal, Andrea Stella, following the release of draft chassis and aerodynamics rules for 2026.

Hybrid Power Units and the 50/50 Split

Initially defined for the 2026 season, the new power unit regulations aim to increase hybridization with a targeted 50/50 power split between internal combustion engines and electric systems. However, not everyone in the F1 community is convinced of the feasibility of this plan. Andrea Stella has been notably vocal, emphasizing that all stakeholders—both from the power unit and chassis fronts—must contribute to the sport's success.

Governance and Collaboration

Tombazis acknowledges that governance structures surrounding the power unit regulations are already in place, indicating that any revisions would need collective agreement from all manufacturers. Despite this, he remains optimistic: “Generally speaking, there's a very good spirit of collaboration. If tweaks are required, I'm quite confident the PU manufacturers will be cooperative.”

The draft aerodynamic regulations have introduced movable aerodynamics on the front and rear wings, designed to create a low-drag configuration on straights. This innovation aims to reduce the burden on hybrid power units, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to regulation.

Concerns from the Field

Stella points out a crucial concern: the current approach puts heavy demands on the chassis. “We can still achieve a 50/50 concept, but it needs to be done in a way that doesn’t place undue stress on the chassis, which is challenging to meet,” he states. This creates a noticeable disparity between engine and aerodynamic regulations.

A Two-Year Gap and Its Implications

The timeline for these regulatory adjustments has been questioned. The engine regulations were crafted two years before the aerodynamic ones—a move speculated to attract new manufacturers like Audi to the sport. This has resulted in aerodynamic rules needing to compensate for the pre-set engine guidelines.

The Benefit of Hindsight

Reflecting on the process, Tombazis admits that more time could have allowed for better planning. “There's very little I wouldn’t change with more time,” he says, underscoring the pressures of regulatory timelines. Yet, he believes that drastic changes wouldn't alter the current trajectory significantly.

Perhaps the most significant takeaway is the increased participation of power unit manufacturers, which Tombazis considers a point of pride. Despite the debates and adjustments, broader involvement from these key players signals a positive growth trend for the sport.