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F1 Faces 2026 Rules Backlash as 50G Crash Spurs Safety Review

A review of the energy-management rules looms during the April break.

Overview

  • After the Suzuka race, drivers including Lando Norris and Max Verstappen said software now decides when the battery gives power, cutting their control in close fights.
  • Under rule C5.12, the Power Limited sequence restarts battery output after a lift and then acceleration, which often drains energy before the next straight and invites easy counters.
  • Haas said Oliver Bearman sustained a 50G impact with only a knee bruise, and the crash highlighted speed gaps of about 50–60 km/h created by boost use and battery charge states.
  • The FIA, teams and engine makers plan April meetings to review energy‑management behavior and possible fixes, with safety named as the top goal.
  • Not all voices align, as Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve praised the tactical racing and higher pass counts even as current drivers push for changes.