Leclerc warns 2026 F1 cars make overtaking 'extremely difficult'

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc has expressed significant concern over the overtaking capabilities of Formula 1's new 2026 cars, stating the process is now "extremely difficult" and comes at a much higher strategic cost than before. His comments highlight a potential unintended consequence of the sport's latest technical revolution, which prioritizes energy management over pure mechanical grip.

Why it matters:

Overtaking is a fundamental spectacle of racing, and a formula that makes it too difficult or costly risks turning grands prix into processional affairs. Leclerc's early feedback from testing suggests drivers are struggling to translate the new hybrid power and aerodynamic philosophy into effective racecraft, which could impact the quality of wheel-to-wheel battles that fans expect.

The details:

• The 2026 regulations introduced a major shift, with electrical power output now matching the internal combustion engine (ICE), forcing drivers to meticulously manage energy harvesting and deployment.
• Leclerc explained that overtaking success now heavily depends on when a driver uses their energy reserves, creating a high-stakes strategic trade-off. Making a pass often depletes energy needed to then pull away and defend the position.
• "The price is a lot more costly than it was in the past," Leclerc said. "So that's why I think it's very, very difficult to make an overtake and then pull away like it was the case last year."
• Driver reactions to the new cars have been mixed. While some appreciate the enhanced ability to manipulate the car through corners, four-time champion Max Verstappen has been openly critical of the new driving style required.
• Leclerc admitted the current cars are not the most fun he's driven, finding pleasure instead in the engineering challenge of developing and optimizing the complex new systems.

What's next:

Leclerc remains hopeful that the situation will "improve with time" as teams and drivers better understand how to manage the cars in race conditions. However, his comments serve as an early red flag for the FIA and F1 organizers. If overtaking remains prohibitively difficult, it may prompt a mid-regulation tweak or force teams to find innovative aerodynamic solutions to improve following and racing. The true test will come at the first few races, where the strategic depth—or frustration—of the new formula will be laid bare.