Fresh concerns over Formula 1’s 2026 power unit regulations have prompted the FIA to reconsider aspects of its long-term technical direction.
Single Seaters Director Nikolas Tombazis signalled a possible shift in emphasis between electric and internal combustion power.
The regulations, originally developed over a six-year period, were conceived during a time when governments and automotive manufacturers were aggressively pushing electrification.
That environment helped attract new entrants such as Audi and General Motors, while also encouraging Honda to return after its 2022 exit.
However, what was initially hailed as the beginning of a new era has become increasingly divisive within the paddock. Teams and drivers have raised concerns over excessive battery management and the phenomenon known as “superclipping,” which has resulted in cars slowing unexpectedly on straights.
A crash involving Oliver Bearman and Franco Colapinto in Japan has accelerated discussions around potential fixes, with regulatory adjustments now scheduled ahead of the Miami Grand Prix.
Despite these planned tweaks, there is scepticism that the changes will sufficiently address the core issues.
“Well first of all, it is true, the political landscape has changed,” Tombazis said.
“And back when we discussed the current regulations, the automotive companies, who were very involved, told us that they’re never going to make another internal combustion engine again – a new one.
“They were going to phase out, and by whatever year, they were going to be fully electrical, for example. Obviously, this hasn’t happened. That’s not to underestimate the importance of electrification globally, but it didn’t happen as much, as I said.
“Secondly, I think one of the not frequently discussed stories, because it’s not something visible, is that, of course, we did go for fully sustainable fuels, and I think, a reasonably good outcome.”
“So in terms of where we want to be in the future, we do need to protect the sport from the world macro-economic situation,” he added.
“Meaning we cannot be hostage to automotive companies deciding to be part of our sport or not.
“We want them to be part of our sport, absolutely. That’s why we’ve worked so hard to secure new ones to participate.
“But we can also not be in a position where, if they decide they don’t want to be, we’re suddenly left vulnerable. And we need to keep working for cost reduction.”
