Sainz Warns F1’s 2026 Straight Mode Risks a High-Speed Crash

Overview

• Carlos Sainz said the new Straight Mode will likely cause a major crash at fast sections with slight bends, citing Melbourne’s Albert Park and the Jeddah layout as prime risk areas.
• His warning followed use of the feature through the sweep linking Turns 9–10 in Australia, where cars ran with much less grip while still near top speed.
• Straight Mode is part of F1’s active aerodynamics for 2026 and opens both front and rear wing elements in set zones to cut drag, which also slashes downforce and narrows the margin for error.
• Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson described unpredictable speed gaps from teams charging or deploying hybrid energy at different times, which can leave a following car closing fast with Straight Mode active and little room to react.
• Drivers’ safety and raceability concerns over energy management and active aero have grown, and several outlets say attention will turn to what the FIA does after Suzuka if the issues persist.