Alonso Voices Overtaking Concerns Over 2026 F1 Regulations

Two-time Formula 1 champion Fernando Alonso has expressed reservations about the 2026 technical regulations, specifically concerning the impact on overtaking opportunities. The Aston Martin driver believes the removal of DRS and the introduction of new systems like Manual Override and active aerodynamics might not significantly improve racing action.

Why it matters:

Formula 1 aims to enhance racing and overtaking with its 2026 regulation overhaul. However, if a veteran driver like Alonso, known for his race craft and strategic insights, raises concerns, it signals potential issues that need addressing. Effective overtaking is crucial for fan engagement and the spectacle of the sport, and any rule change that hinders it could undermine the very goal of the new regulations.

The details:

• New Systems: The 2026 regulations will replace the Drag Reduction System (DRS) with a "Manual Override" system, allowing a chasing car to deploy more battery power, and active aerodynamics.
• Alonso's View on Car Performance: Alonso doesn't anticipate the 2026 cars feeling drastically different, noting that the sport remains a race against time and competitors. He expects slightly less grip due to reduced downforce.
• Overtaking Mechanism: His primary concern revolves around the new overtaking mechanics. With both the leading and following cars potentially able to activate similar straight-line performance boosts (akin to DRS), the incentive to make a pass might diminish.
• Energy Management: Alonso highlights that using significant energy for an overtake on one straight could leave a car vulnerable to being re-overtaken on subsequent straights, creating a potential stalemate where neither driver is incentivized to attempt a move.
  • He suggests that drivers might opt not to attempt overtakes if it means losing time or being immediately re-overtaken, thus negating the benefit of the pass.
• Tyre Impact: Alonso believes that tire degradation and the potential for multi-stop races, rather than the new energy/aero systems, will be the most significant factor in promoting overtaking. Higher degradation encourages different strategies and more pit stops, leading to more on-track action during out-laps.

What's next:

Alonso acknowledges that it's difficult to predict the full impact until the cars hit the track. The true test of the 2026 regulations will come once teams have built and tested their machinery, revealing how energy management and active aerodynamics genuinely influence race dynamics and overtaking.

• The FIA and F1 will undoubtedly monitor initial feedback closely to ensure the new rules achieve their objective of improving the racing spectacle.