Aldo Costa Predicts Highly Competitive 2026 F1 Season

The big picture

Aldo Costa, a pivotal figure behind some of Formula 1's most dominant eras with Ferrari and Mercedes, foresees a significantly more competitive landscape in 2026. Under the new regulations, he believes as many as six teams could be capable of building the best car.

Why it matters

Costa's career includes an astonishing 12 Drivers' and 14 Constructors' titles, making his insights into upcoming F1 regulation changes particularly noteworthy. His prediction points to a potential shake-up of the current order and a far less predictable championship battle.

The details

• A Champion's Legacy: Often regarded as one of F1's greatest designers alongside Adrian Newey, Costa's engineering prowess was instrumental in the championship wins of legends like Michael Schumacher, Kimi Raikkonen, Nico Rosberg, and Lewis Hamilton.
• Dallara's F1 Connections: Currently serving as Chief Technical Officer (CTO) at Dallara, Costa maintains strong ties to Formula 1. Dallara manufactures chassis for teams like Haas F1, operates a composite manufacturing center for Ferrari, and has partnered with the upcoming Cadillac F1 entry.
• Expanded Scope: Recent revisions to FIA regulations now allow third-party manufacturers like Dallara to work with a broader range of F1 teams. This offers Costa a "wider view" of the sport, though he is no longer directly embedded within a specific team.
• Reflecting on Success: Costa looks back fondly on his time at Minardi, Ferrari, and Mercedes, highlighting his consistent success in developing teams from non-winning positions into perennial title contenders. Despite this illustrious past, he remains committed to Dallara's diverse global motorsport projects and does not anticipate a return to a singular F1 team role.

What's next

The 2026 regulations are poised to introduce a "global change," impacting not only aerodynamics and systems but also the power unit architecture. This comprehensive overhaul presents unique challenges and opportunities across the grid. Costa suggests these changes will inevitably lead to "a big challenge with some surprises," creating an environment where multiple teams could genuinely contend for top honors. The coming seasons will be crucial as teams race to interpret and exploit these radical new rules.