Helmut Marko has demanded immediate changes to the 2026 Formula 1 regulations following a divisive start to the new season.
The 2026 regulations have proven divisive amongst drivers, teams and fans, with concerns over artificial racing and excessive battery management taking centre stage.
Drivers are at the mercy of their batteries and software, in some cases, the car overriding a driver’s command leading to accidental overtaking.
Qualifying has also been significantly impacted, the cars slowing down on straights in order to harvest energy, diluting the spectacle.
Marko has attacked the complexity of the regulations, questioning whether changes proposed by the FIA for Miami will save 2026.
“It’s too complicated and the software plays too dominant a role,” the 82-year-old Austrian told Kleine Zeitung.
“I don’t know if that can be rectified in a single season. Something has to be done, and driving skill must be brought back to the fore.”
Helmut Marko demands change “now”
Marko, former head of Red Bull’s Young Driver Programme, has summarised the mood amongst the drivers, as they grapple with a radically different driving style.
Demanding changes, he has offered his solution to the the growing number of issues with the regulations.
“The mood among the drivers is negative,” he said.
“Changes need to be made now, and hopefully the FIA will do everything in its power to reduce the battery’s share and focus more on the combustion engine.
Marko is known for his blunt and honest opinions, his take on the 2026 rules being no different. As a former driver academy head, he will be in tune with the concerns of the drivers.
Like many others, he will be watching to see the impact of any changes made ahead of Miami.
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