The Spanish driver Carlos Sainz, currently with the Williams team, has expressed his concerns regarding the new regulations in Formula 1, implemented for the 2026 season. With the introduction of these changes, there has been an increase in criticism from some paddock members, and Sainz has been one of the latest to make his voice heard.
The new regulations impose the use of smaller, more agile cars, as well as engines that combine an almost equal ratio of electric and internal combustion power. Drivers have had to adapt their driving style to recharge the batteries of the vehicles during laps.
The new energy utilization techniques have necessitated an approach that involves redesigning the circuits. Sainz has expressed that, on tracks like Shanghai, conditions may be more favorable, but he indicates that circuits like Melbourne, Monza, and Spa need a thorough review.
“I believe they are not aligning with what Formula 1 should be,” Sainz commented. He added that, although he hopes changes will be implemented immediately, he acknowledges that the FIA could not solve everything at the beginning of the season. “It would be good to make adjustments to improve the spectacle that the cars offer.”
Sainz shares the sentiment of numerous drivers calling for changes to the regulations, including proposals on starting procedures and energy limits. However, significant transformations are not expected before the next major engine update, scheduled for 2030/31.
Meanwhile, the head of the Haas team, Ayao Komatsu, has pointed out that it is necessary to observe five races to adequately assess the impact of the new regulations, warning against impulsive reactions to current criticisms.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
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