The current era of Formula 1 regulations is coming to a close, with 2025 marking the final year for the current generation of F1 cars. The sport is set to transition to new cars in 2026.
The 2026 cars will be equipped with new power units that will generate power through a combination of electricity and internal combustion, with a 50/50 ratio. This development has raised concerns, particularly from Red Bull. According to their simulations, the cars will experience power depletion at the end of straightaways. This sparked a significant debate with rival teams and Formula 1 Management.
To address this potential power deficiency, the 2026 cars will incorporate movable aerodynamic components. These parts aim to reduce drag on straightaways, compensating for any power shortcomings. The wings will be configured for high downforce in corners and low downforce on straightaways.
Initially, the plan was to restrict the movable aerodynamic components to the rear wing, simplifying the design. However, recent reports from Motorsport.com suggest a change in this approach. Simulations conducted by some teams revealed concerning results regarding the characteristics of the new cars.
According to the report, when the rear wing is set to the lowest downforce configuration and the power unit is operating at maximum output, the 2026 car becomes nearly impossible to drive. Drivers experienced spinning on straightaways and struggled to control the rear of the cars even during slight curves.
The initial analysis indicates that the shift in aerodynamic balance caused by the movable components is three times greater than that caused by the current DRS (Drag Reduction System) used in Formula 1. The report also quoted an insider who suggested that the cars would need to be driven so conservatively that their lap times would be slower than the current Formula 1 machinery.
In response to these concerns, FIA officials have visited the teams’ facilities to discuss the issue. One proposed solution is to introduce movable aerodynamic components on the front wings as well, in order to reduce the offset in aerodynamic balance.
The FIA and Formula 1 Management are now in a race against time to address these problems before the regulations are finalized by June 2024.
While Red Bull has previously voiced complaints about the regulations, Christian Horner, the team’s principal, recently praised the FIA for taking teams’ concerns into account. He acknowledged the progress made so far and emphasized the importance of the chassis regulations in the 2026 package and their interaction with the power units. Horner expressed confidence in adapting to the rules, stating that they are the same for everyone and that any issues will be discovered once the regulations are finalized.
In conclusion, the future of Formula 1 regulations is undergoing significant changes as the sport prepares for new cars in 2026. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential power deficiency and the drivability of the new cars. The FIA and Formula 1 Management are actively working to address these concerns before finalizing the regulations. Despite the challenges, teams like Red Bull remain optimistic and are ready to adapt to the new rules.