As Formula 1 prepares for significant changes in the 2026 season, including a shift towards more electrification and the adoption of a new carbon-free fuel, concerns are being voiced regarding the upcoming chassis technical regulations. While the 2026 engine regulations have been finalized, the details about the chassis changes have yet to be revealed.
The planned adjustments aim to make the cars lighter and shorter, with a strong emphasis on reducing drag. However, some within the sport have expressed worries about the potential impact of these regulations. Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing, has previously raised concerns about the risk of creating “technical Frankenstein” cars if the rules are not carefully planned.
One particular challenge is the balance between combustion and electrical power, given the increasing importance of electrical output in F1 engines. The need for an appropriate ratio between these power sources is crucial to maintain competitive and exciting racing.
Horner emphasized the need for “urgent attention” to ensure that the changes do not disrupt the sport’s core characteristics, such as wheel-to-wheel racing. He expressed concerns about the impact on active aerodynamics, the reduction of the drag reduction system (DRS), and the necessity for drivers to downshift on straights to recharge the batteries, potentially affecting the tow effect.
He commented, “[We need] to ensure that we’re not creating a technical Frankenstein, which will require the chassis to compensate to such a degree with moveable aero and reduce the drag to such a level that the racing will be affected – and that there will be no tow effect and no DRS because effectively you’re running like that at all points in time.”
The FIA, Formula 1’s governing body, is taking these concerns seriously and closely monitoring the situation as advanced simulations provide more insights. With two and a half years until the regulations take effect, there may be room for adjustments to ensure that the changes result in a better racing platform without compromising the essence of Formula 1.
