P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 warned of consequences if customer parts are banned
As F1 transitions to a new rules era from 2026, some teams are pushing for stricter regulations on partnerships like those between Red Bull/RB and Ferrari/Haas. McLaren CEO Zak Brown has strongly voiced concerns about the current regulations, stating they are inadequate in preventing teams from collaborating, especially when under common ownership. While the definition of a constructor for the future is under review as part of the 2026 talks, Red Bull team leaders have cautioned about potential risks. They argue that despite the existence of a cost cap, a significant gap between the top teams and the rest remains, which could worsen if teams were required to independently design and build all car components. RB CEO Peter Bayer emphasizes the importance of the benefits his team gains from its partnership with Red Bull in competing in the midfield. Mekies, RB team principal, supports Bayer’s stance, stating that altering the customer parts regulations in F1 could disadvantage smaller teams, reduce competitiveness, and impact the sport’s financial sustainability.
