Ocon, Bearman express early concerns over 2026 F1 car overtaking ability

Initial feedback from Haas drivers Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman after testing F1's 2026 cars in Barcelona suggests overtaking could become more challenging, despite new aerodynamic and power unit regulations designed to improve racing. Both drivers reported significant car balance issues when following another vehicle, casting early doubt on the effectiveness of the new 'Overtake Mode' system meant to replace DRS.

Why it matters:

The 2026 technical overhaul, with its dramatic cuts in downforce and drag, was conceived to create closer, more exciting racing. If the early driver impressions hold true and passing remains difficult, it could undermine a core goal of the new regulations before the season even begins, potentially leading to processional races.

The details:

• During the three-day Barcelona 'shakedown', both Ocon and Bearman completed nearly 400 laps in the new Haas VF-26, which features the 2026-spec chassis and reduced aerodynamics.
• Ocon's Initial Take: The Frenchman noted a noticeable loss of front-end load when following other cars, potentially more than with the previous generation. He experimented with the new Overtake Mode but cautioned it's too early for definitive conclusions, stating his first thought is that "it looks to be difficult to pass."
• Bearman's Observations: The rookie echoed his teammate, reporting a "quite a big shift in car balance" in dirty air compared to clean running. He found this shift more pronounced than with the 2025 cars but emphasized his limited running.
• The New Overtake Mode: The system, which replaces DRS, provides a power boost to a driver within one second of a rival. Bearman confirmed he tried the mode in clean air but did not get a chance to use it for an actual overtaking maneuver, leaving its real-world efficacy an open question.

What's next:

These are only preliminary impressions from a single test focused on reliability and systems checks, not race simulations.

• Teams will spend the coming months analyzing the vast amounts of data collected to optimize car setup and the calibration of the Overtake Mode system.
• The true picture of the 2026 car's raceability will only become clear during proper grand prix weekends with full fuel loads, tire management, and strategic battles, starting with the season opener in Melbourne.