P1racenews AI automatic summary:
In an attempt to separate the myths and scare stories from the reality, The Race has spoken to senior F1 figures to get a better picture of how the 2026 engines are progressing. Here’s what we know
The upcoming 2026 engine regulations in Formula 1 have sparked concerns and horror stories among teams and drivers as they navigate the new rules, especially regarding the 50/50 power split between combustion engines and batteries. Worries arose about races becoming fuel-saving exercises, desperation to harvest electrical power, and potential speed drop-offs requiring gear changes. World champion Max Verstappen expressed his skepticism after testing the 2026 car early, highlighting the challenges at tracks like Monza. Despite initial concerns, recent evaluations of the 2026 engines on dynos show a more promising outlook, with manufacturers and teams working towards a better understanding of the new engines and dispelling early myths. As we approach the debut of the new power units on track, teams are adjusting their approach to downforce and drag levels to ensure a balanced performance without the feared issues of energy depletion and gear changes mid-race. Overall, while challenges remain, feedback suggests that the 2026 engines are moving in the right direction, with ongoing refinements and adjustments to optimize their performance on track.
