P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The governing body is keen to avoid any controversy with the introduction of the new power units set for the 2026 season.
FIA Single Seater Director, Nikolas Tombazis, wants to prevent any major controversies with the next set of Formula 1 power unit regulations, which will be introduced in 2026. These regulations will prioritize the electrical output, although the Internal Combustion Engine will still be important, just less so than in the current regulations. Currently, all manufacturers, except Alpine, are performing at a similar level. Alpine is facing a deficit of 20-30bhp due to lack of development on their power unit. However, Tombazis believes this will not be an issue once the new regulations take effect for the six suppliers, including Red Bull-Ford and Audi, as there will be a cost cap for power unit manufacturers for the first time in 2026. Tombazis emphasized the need to be alert when writing the regulations to avoid creating a significant disparity among the manufacturers and to prevent controversies. He acknowledged some small controversies in the past and stated that they have learned from them and can ensure they are avoided in the future. The 2026 regulations have also been designed to prevent large performance gaps, although there is always a risk that a manufacturer may make fundamental mistakes.
