P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Helmut Marko has demanded immediate changes to the 2026 F1 regulations following a divisive start to the new season.
Helmut Marko has demanded immediate changes to the 2026 Formula 1 regulations following a divisive start to the new season. The 2026 regulations have proven divisive amongst drivers, teams and fans, with concerns over artificial racing and excessive battery management taking centre stage. Drivers are at the mercy of their batteries and software, in some cases, the car overriding a driver’s command leading to accidental overtaking. Qualifying has also been significantly impacted, the cars slowing down on straights in order to harvest energy, diluting the spectacle. Marko has attacked the complexity of the regulations, questioning whether changes proposed by the FIA for Miami will save 2026. He has questioned the driver skill needed to drive the 2026 cars and demands change “now” to address the negative mood among the drivers towards the regulations. Marko, known for his blunt opinions, emphasized the importance of reducing the battery’s share and focusing more on the combustion engine to improve the racing spectacle. Marko’s influence as a former driver academy head will be felt in the ongoing discussions surrounding the future of F1 regulations.
