P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner has pinpointed that sustainable fuels will be the “biggest area of differential” in the 2026 F1 regulations.
In 2026, Formula 1 will undergo significant changes with radical overhauls in both chassis and power unit regulations. The 1.6 litre turbo V6 hybrid powertrain will remain, but with notable tweaks such as the elimination of the MGU-H system and increased electrification to achieve a 50/50 power split. Additionally, the introduction of 100% sustainable fuels will be a key focus.
There is speculation that 2026 will mark an era of engine-dominated formula, similar to the introduction of hybrid powertrains in 2014. Red Bull, collaborating with Ford to produce in-house engines for the first time, sees sustainable fuels as a crucial differentiator between teams.
All 10 F1 teams have fuel partners to assist them in this transition, with success in sustainable fuels potentially providing a competitive edge. The 2026 regulations are considered the biggest change in F1 in 50 years, leading to inevitable divergence between teams in terms of chassis and engine performance.
While McLaren and Red Bull have differing approaches to the new regulations, both anticipate convergence in power unit development over time. McLaren CEO Zak Brown emphasizes the need to find the right balance in racing with the significant design changes coming in 2026. The transition to sustainable fuels and the overall technical challenges are areas of focus for teams as they prepare for the upcoming season.
