P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Carlos Sainz is wary of the energy management demands faced by drivers in F1 2026
Williams Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz has called on the FIA to keep an open mind about potential changes to the energy management regulations for 2026 if they prove to be excessive.
The 2026 power units have a 50/50 split between internal combustion and battery power, with the elimination of the MGU-H component.
This change has increased power delivery from the battery but has also resulted in drivers needing to manage energy more intensively during a lap.
In qualifying, drivers are expected to lift-and-coast on fast laps due to these new requirements.
Sainz mentioned the need for adaptability from the FIA to prevent the situation from becoming overly challenging, especially at tracks like Melbourne or Jeddah.
He emphasized the importance of remaining flexible in adjusting the regulations for better performance and entertainment in the Formula 1 races.
The significant energy management demands during testing led Max Verstappen to compare the new rules to “Formula E on steroids.”
