Lando Norris: F1 2026 Rules 'Not at Formula 1 Level' – Calls for Battery Scrap

Lando Norris acknowledged a “small” positive step with the F1 2026 regulations in Miami, but bluntly declared the formula still isn’t fit for purpose. The McLaren driver called for the complete removal of the battery system, saying the current rules penalize drivers for pushing flat out.

Why it matters:

The F1 2026 regulations have polarized the grid and fans. While the FIA introduced flexibility in battery charging allowances for Miami, drivers like Norris argue the core issue remains: the cars can't be driven at the limit without being punished. This debate is shaping the future direction of the sport's technical rules.

The details:

• FIA's Miami tweak: The governing body allowed a variable maximum recharge (7 MJ per lap) at some events, but Miami kept 250 kW deployment limits in certain lap sections. It was classified as an “energy rich” circuit, enabling more flat-out driving in qualifying.
• Norris’s verdict: “It’s a small step in the right direction, but it’s not to the level that Formula 1 should still be at yet. You still get penalised if you try pushing like previous years. You just have to get rid of the battery.”
• Antonelli’s take: The Mercedes driver felt qualifying was “more natural,” but noted the massive closing speed in races and the need to trust defending drivers more due to active aero making cars lazy in direction changes.
• Race outcome: Kimi Antonelli took his third straight win in Miami, finishing just over three seconds ahead of Norris after a battle including Charles Leclerc.

What’s next:

The FIA has already agreed to tweak the electrical vs. internal combustion power ratio for 2027. Meanwhile, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has declared V8 engines will return to F1 with minimal electric power, potentially by 2030. For now, Norris’s blunt request to scrap the battery entirely signals the depth of driver dissatisfaction with the current hybrid-heavy formula.