P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 chief brands new 2026 cars a ‘waste’ and in danger of ‘steep decline’
Alpine chief Flavio Briatore is critical of the upcoming changes to F1 cars, expressing concerns about the new electrical energy focus in the regulations from 2026.
The shift includes a significant increase in electrical energy output and a power split between the internal combustion engine (ICE) and the 350kW electrical MGU-K system.
Briatore views this as a risk that could lead to a decline in F1 due to the complex energy management, calling it a waste of engineering effort that fans won’t understand.
He believes the new system may be too intricate for fans and drivers, emphasizing the need for clearer explanations in the sport.
As the 2026 F1 season approaches, drivers like Max Verstappen have also voiced reservations about the new cars, likening them to ‘Formula E on steroids’ and expressing concerns about the increased management required to race them.
