Mansell says F1 overtakes are ‘totally false’

Nigel Mansell, the 1992 world champion, has taken aim at Formula 1’s post‑2026 hybrid rules, saying many overtakes are “totally false” because the car’s onboard computer delivers a burst of power that can propel a driver past a rival only to disappear moments later. The former Williams and Ferrari driver warned that such system‑driven moves look spectacular but lack genuine wheel‑to‑wheel competition, risking fan disillusionment.

Why it matters:

• Overtaking is the sport’s headline act; if victories are decided by software timing rather than driver skill, fan interest could erode quickly.
• The hybrid era already forces drivers to harvest and deploy energy, turning many battles into strategic power‑unit management rather than pure racing.
• Even current champion Lando Norris admitted after Suzuka he avoided an overtake because the boost could be stripped away on the next straight, underscoring the problem.
• Critics argue the perceived artificiality could damage F1’s brand, making it harder to attract new viewers and sponsors who expect authentic high‑speed competition.

What's next:

• Ahead of the Miami Grand Prix the FIA will roll out a revised ERS map designed to smooth power‑boost delivery and curb abrupt overtaking spikes.
• If the tweaks fail to restore authentic battles, former champions and a vocal fan base may pressure the sport to revisit the 2026 technical regulations.
• Long‑term, the governing body could consider separating boost timing from automated controls, giving drivers more direct influence over overtaking moves.
• Early feedback from the Miami test will likely shape the pace of regulatory changes for the remainder of the 2026 cycle.