Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has doubled down on his bold claim that F1 cars could reach 400 kph under the 2026 regulations, playfully suggesting "some folks maybe got afraid" of the prospect.
Why it matters
The upcoming 2026 F1 engine regulations are a hot topic in the paddock, with many theories arguing against their effectiveness, especially concerning speed on straights and corners. Wolff, a strong proponent of the changes, is challenging this narrative.
The details
- Speaking at the Dutch Grand Prix, Wolff explained his rationale. "Everybody's talking those engines down, so I had to figure out, is there anything positive?" he pondered.
- He elaborated: "If you were to deploy all the energy on a single straight, you could make those cars go 400 kilometers an hour. I don't know if somebody got afraid by it, but we could."
- However, Wolff quickly nuanced this, acknowledging the significant trade-off: "But there wouldn't be much electric energy left for the other few corners on a track." This implies that while technically possible, it's not a practical strategy for an entire race lap.
What's next
The debate around the 2026 regulations will intensify as teams continue development and understanding of the new power units. Driver feedback and simulations will be crucial in shaping future discussions.