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F1 Confirms Post-China Review of 2026 Energy Rules as Drivers Split on New Era

The FIA plans to reassess energy management after Shanghai in response to concerns over drivability and safety under the new 50/50 hybrid regulations.

Overview

  • FIA single-seater chief Nikolas Tombazis said the energy-management package will be reviewed with teams after the Chinese Grand Prix, with options ready if changes are warranted.
  • The 2026 rules shifted power units to an equal combustion–electric split with aggressive harvesting and boost features, producing far more overtaking but changing driving technique.
  • Several drivers, including Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, criticized the racing as artificial and warned of 30–50 kph closing-speed risks, while Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes drivers were more positive.
  • Series leadership urged patience and a fan-focused approach, with Stefano Domenicali calling blanket negativity unhelpful and Toto Wolff saying tweaks will be considered if they improve the spectacle.
  • Possible adjustments under discussion include revising harvesting and deployment limits or increasing internal-combustion output, with changes potentially arriving later in the season after the review.