“Max Verstappen won the 2026 Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix after using his extra 0.5 MJ on his final lap and deploying his MOM [modo de anulación manual]”. Is this the terrifying prospect that fans could face, based on the proposed new technical regulations?
The statement in which the FIA explained its plans for two years from now, that the organization’s single-seater technical director, Nikolas Tombazisdescribed as a “moderate revolution”, seems as confusing as the oxymoron he decided to use.
As the teams object to the revealed technical proposals and begin to scramble, Fears are growing that if the regulations are allowed to be approved in their current form, they will only serve to alienate fans.
The jargon that has been used in F1 has always been a discussed and, for the most part, accepted topic. In recent years, we have seen the introduction of foreign components that we have referred to in confusing terms, such as DRS, ERS, CE, SOC, DAS and MGUK-H. But, if we are realistic and want to attract a broader audience, the proposed terminology must be addressed.
Although the active aerodynamics proposal is intuitive, calling it “Z mode” for higher downforce, and “X mode” for low drag and straights – along with plans for new power units, battery technology and fuels sustainable – entails the risk of making everything will be too confusing and cause fans, especially the new ones that F1 has worked so hard to attract, to end up turning away.
The boss of Aston Martin, Mike Kracksaid about it: “It’s a lot of engineering speak. Z mode, X mode, power management, etc. In terms of complexity, I think we have to focus on the product, the fan and the viewer. “I’m a little afraid that in 2026 we will have driver press conferences or interviews talking about all these technicalities, which many people will not understand, and will lose interest.”
“I think we have to be very careful with that. If energy management varies from one circuit to another, or if there are limitations in the car that cause one to go in front and another behind, how do we explain it? “It’s something we have to take into account.”
Haas team manager Ayao Komatsuagrees with the Luxembourger, and states that the proposals will be easier to understand over time, but adds that the language being used is wrong.
“Part of the complexity is more in the language than the substancebecause when we talk about X mode, like it’s open DRS and the concept of opening DRS, it’s very well established. Part of the complexity that still persists, especially with regard to the power unit, is due to the immaturity of the regulations. I think once I mature it will be even easier. Or at least I hope we can achieve both thanks to development and collaboration work,” added the Japanese engineer.
FIA render of F1 2026
The other element is the possibility that Formula 1 will see its position at the pinnacle of motorsport usurped. A paddock source said the 2026 proposals seemed more “Formula 2.5 than F1”relative to the slower speeds.
Williams boss, James Vowlesexpressed his concern in this regard: “It is imperative that we remain the premier class of motorsport. That is how I see us. We are the pinnacle of this. And therefore, as a consequence of that, we have to make sure we maintain the performance and speed we have“.
Another element that could be decisive among fans is the restrictive regulations on the chassis, which could endanger the DNA of F1. The design of somewhat smaller and lighter cars is to be applauded, but restrictive measures can impede design freedom.
In the 2015 Motorsport Network Global Fan Survey, A staggering 86 percent opposed Formula 1 becoming a single-seater category with identical chassis and engines.
Komatsu sees it that way, and believes the restrictions could be detrimental to the spirit of F1 teams as manufacturers. “In terms of design freedom, especially in the aerodynamic aspect. Right now, in the draft regulations, I’m not sure the right balance has been struck in terms of how things are prescribed.“added the Japanese.
“All those philosophies, how we present ourselves as the pinnacle of motorsport, also in terms of engineering, to have some freedom or a little more freedom in the aerodynamics… That’s important too.. So, again, there are several aspects that we have to look at for it to really represent the pinnacle of motorsport,” he concluded.
