Carlos Sainz has accused the FIA of “playing around too much” with the 2026 Formula 1 regulations.
The proposed chassis and aerodynamic regulations were released ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix and have been designed to work in response to the power unit regulations that had already been confirmed in 2022 which we will see a 50/50 power split hybrid power unit implemented.
A highlight of the proposed regulations is the movable aero on the front and rear wings that will allow cars to enter a ‘low-drag’ mode on straights, a response to fears the power units will require too much energy conservation.
Sainz implied the regulations are getting too convoluted when speaking to media including Motorsport Week during Thursday’s Formula 1 Spanish GP press conference.
“From what I’ve seen, it just seems to me a bit exaggerated what we’re trying to do in 26, everything, regarding power unit, aero, we’re trying to play around too much with things and manipulating downforce here and there,” said the Spaniard.
“50% hybrid and combustion, I don’t know. It seems extreme, and I’m curious to see what they come up with.
“But if it has managed to attract Audi as a manufacturer, make Honda stay, it’s also good for F1. So let’s see.”
Sainz isn’t alone in his criticism and the FIA has already confirmed it will consult with the teams to make changes to the regulations in accordance with concerns.
Another concern regarding the new regulations has been raised by Sainz’s former team-mate Lando Norris, who fears the arrival of the new regulations will see the field spread out again just as it has converged under the current ruleset.
Sainz admitted that it is natural for a new rule cycle to cause the field to spread, but believes the 2026 F1 regulations will be suitably restricted to allow the field to converge quickly.
“I think it’s no secret that when you bring such a different power unit that we’re bringing in ’26, plus such a different aero, tyres, weight, concept of car, I think it’s natural that the field will spread again,” said Sainz.
“At the same time, they seem to have really tightened up those regs to make sure no one does anything special.
“But we kind of said the same about ‘22 and look what happened. So they seem to be always tightening, tightening it up and see if it works. I don’t know.”
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