P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The FIA’s single-seater technical chief has explained the tight-rope the governing body is walking with F1’s new engine rules.
According to the FIA’s single-seater technical director, creating engine regulations that please all parties is a delicate balancing act. The new engine formula for 2026 involves a 50-50 power output split between the internal combustion engine and the enhanced electrical systems, with batteries now generating 350kw of power. This ratio shift places higher demands on energy management and harvesting during a lap compared to the previous 80-20 split favoring the ICE in 2025. Criticism of the new regulations came from Max Verstappen, who likened the engines to “anti-racing” and a souped-up version of Formula E. The rules appear to be designed to attract new manufacturers into Formula 1, as evidenced by Audi’s entry with a works project and Honda supplying Aston Martin, among others. While achieving a balance between satisfying drivers, manufacturers, and fans is challenging, the FIA is committed to making necessary adjustments to address concerns and maintain the sport’s appeal amid evolving societal trends and stakeholder interests.
