Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing has expressed his concerns regarding the future direction of Formula 1 and its proposed introduction of active aero systems in the 2026 regulation overhaul. The upcoming generation of F1 cars is expected to be smaller and lighter, with a balance of 50% internal combustion and electrical power. While the engine regulations have been finalized, the chassis regulations are still under discussion.
The FIA has suggested the use of moveable rear wings as part of the active aero systems, but this idea has raised doubts among teams and drivers. Trials with the adaptive rear wing system have been conducted in team simulators, but the resulting change in aero balance has increased the risk of spins during straight-line acceleration. To address this issue, the FIA is now considering the inclusion of a moveable front wing in addition to the active rear wing, in order to better manage the change in aero balance.
Verstappen has criticized the proposed rule changes, expressing his belief that compromises will have to be made on certain tracks where high energy consumption per lap is required.
“And obviously, as you know, considering the potential of features like active aerodynamics and such. I’m uncertain if we should proceed in that direction. That’s the current outlook.
“Hopefully, we can optimize all these sorts of things.
“For me, it’s more crucial to simply attempt to combat the weight of the cars, striving to optimize that instead of relying on all these tools and tactics to aid overtaking or following.
“There must be alternative methods to achieve it. I suppose, with the engine regulations they implemented, they had to do that to generate top speed and essentially determine where the battery stops deploying and so on. And yes, certain tracks will perform better while others may be more precarious.
“Of course, people will attempt to refute my arguments, but we will ultimately find out in ’26. However, I’m not overly preoccupied with it since we have a lot of work in the upcoming seasons leading up to ’26. But we’ll see if we can make some improvements.”
Ferrari competitor Carlos Sainz shared his perspective on the discussion, stating: “I believe it’s all a consequence of the engine regulations. Ultimately, if you require significantly more energy from the electric powertrain, you will need to incorporate active aerodynamics in some way to compensate.
“And that’s where it becomes complicated with regards to overtaking and the use of active aerodynamics to enhance straight-line speed and reduce full throttle time.”
However, Sainz exercised caution in criticizing the plans for the regulation reset without observing the finalized framework in action.
“Until we have the opportunity to test them, I think it’s unfair to criticize or support the regulations,” he continued.
“In the meantime, if it has attracted major car manufacturers such as Audi to participate in the sport, I believe it is something that should be acknowledged and put into perspective.
Personally, I believe that these cars have become excessively large and heavy. If I had to make a change for the future, it would be to address this issue. Additionally, the suspension has become a major topic of discussion, particularly in relation to certain tracks and the strain it puts on the drivers.
Sainz, whose future in Formula 1 is uncertain beyond 2024, also proposed that the FIA should consider implementing active suspension systems to enhance driver safety and well-being.
Considering the introduction of active aerodynamics, it would make sense to also incorporate active suspension systems to protect the drivers’ backs and ensure the safety of certain tracks.
It is evident that we are currently placing too many demands on the tracks and circuits, expecting them to modify numerous small bumps that were previously insignificant with the ’21 car. Now, these situations can result in spins or significant accidents.
Therefore, if I were to request or suggest one addition for the ’26 regulations, it would be a measure to provide some protection in this regard.
The aerodynamic regulations for 2026 are expected to be officially confirmed by the end of June this year.”