P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Oscar Piastri believes ‘abnormalities’ could be rife in the 2026 season as drivers battle the new systems.
In 2026, F1 drivers will encounter “abnormalities” in energy harvesting at multiple grands prix, according to Oscar Piastri.
The new power units will distribute power output evenly between the internal combustion engine and the enhanced batteries, requiring drivers to harvest energy on a larger scale than in 2025.
Concerns arise during testing regarding the need for significant lift and coasting to prevent depletion and reliance solely on ICE power.
Tracks with heavy braking zones like Bahrain and Canada’s Circuit Gilles Villeneuve will pose less energy harvesting challenges than circuits with long straights such as Australia’s Albert Park or Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah Corniche.
Piastri anticipates significant challenges and abnormal behaviors in racing at the latter tracks due to the increased difficulty in energy harvesting.
He emphasizes the differences in energy management across various circuits, with Melbourne and Jeddah presenting particular challenges in energy conservation and harnessing.
Piastri also notes the potential for adjustments during races to optimize energy usage, highlighting the dynamic nature of managing power units during competition in the upcoming season.
