F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali Addresses Driver Concerns Over 2026 Rules
Why it matters: Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali urges against overreacting to the initial outcomes of the 2026 regulation changes, amidst significant uncertainty and concerns from drivers regarding the new cars and power units. He believes much of the skepticism is a repeat of past patterns and potentially politically motivated.
Domenicali's Perspective
- Skepticism vs. Reality: Domenicali views current driver criticisms as a recurring theme before major rule changes, noting that past fears often don't materialize. He suggests that some comments may serve tactical purposes from teams.
- Evolving Regulations: He highlights that the rules are still evolving. Early concerns, such as the prevalence of 'lift and coast' driving, are already diminishing as adjustments are made through collaboration between teams and the FIA.
Handling Early Challenges
- Avoid Overreaction: Domenicali emphasizes the importance of not immediately altering rules if initial races don't go as expected. He advises patience to fully understand any issues before making adjustments.
- Time for Adaptation: He believes that teams will naturally adapt and evolve their car designs to benefit from the new regulations. The sport needs to allow sufficient time for this natural progression.
A New Era of Opportunity
The big picture: Despite concerns, Domenicali sees the 2026 regulations as a massive opportunity for Formula 1. The new power units, energy management, and car designs will introduce entirely new challenges and learning curves for teams.
What's next: He anticipates significant evolution throughout the 2026 season, predicting that the cars and competitive landscape seen at the first race in Melbourne will look very different by the final race in Abu Dhabi.