The early races of the 2026 Formula 1 campaign have exposed several structural weaknesses in the new regulations, forcing the FIA and Formula 1 to accelerate discussions around potential fixes. What was initially designed as a forward-looking technical revolution has instead revealed limitations in energy deployment, car behavior, and overall race dynamics—prompting urgent action to safeguard the sport’s appeal.
After just three Grands Prix, it has become evident that certain aspects of the 2026 rules are not delivering the expected results. Among the most pressing concerns are the so-called “super clipping” phenomenon during qualifying laps, an arguably unbalanced power distribution between electric and combustion systems, and emerging safety considerations linked to inconsistent performance levels on track.
These topics are set to dominate the upcoming April 9 meeting between the FIA, Formula 1, and team representatives. The objective is clear: identify targeted adjustments that can improve the racing spectacle without completely overhauling the current generation of power units.
Energy management at the heart of the problem
One of the most widely discussed issues revolves around energy deployment. Under the current regulations, the hybrid system contributes a significant portion of total power output, leading to situations where drivers are forced into lift-and-coast phases even during qualifying laps. This not only disrupts performance consistency but also reduces the intensity and authenticity of single-lap battles.
In parallel, the balance between electric power (MGU-K) and the internal combustion engine has proven difficult to optimize. The existing 50/50 distribution may appear theoretically balanced, but in practice it creates sharp variations in power delivery, particularly on long straights where battery depletion becomes a critical factor.
A technical proposal gaining traction
Among the various solutions currently being evaluated, one of the most compelling proposals has been developed by experienced Formula 1 engineer Toni Cuquerella. Through detailed simulations based on the Miami circuit, his analysis focused on how different energy configurations could influence overall performance and drivability.
The results suggest that reducing the maximum output of the MGU-K from 350 kW to approximately 200 kW could significantly mitigate the super clipping effect. In practical terms, this would allow cars to maintain a more consistent level of performance along long straights, avoiding the abrupt power drop currently seen in the final sectors of a lap.
In addition, Cuquerella’s model proposes a reduction in the so-called “slew rate”—the speed at which electrical power is deployed—from 100 kW/s to around 50 kW/s. This adjustment would smooth out the delivery curve, making acceleration more predictable and easier for drivers to manage.
Another key element of the proposal involves lowering the total available battery energy from 9 MJ to 6 MJ. Despite this reduction, the recharge capacity of the system would remain sufficient to ensure consistent energy availability throughout a lap, thanks to more efficient recovery and deployment cycles.
Feasibility and performance implications
A crucial question surrounding these potential changes is whether they can realistically be implemented without requiring a complete redesign of existing power units. According to the technical evaluations conducted so far, the answer appears to be positive. The proposed adjustments focus primarily on calibration and system management rather than fundamental hardware modifications.
As a result, teams would not need to develop entirely new engines, and fuel flow characteristics would remain largely unchanged. This makes the proposal both technically viable and financially sustainable within the current regulatory framework.
From a performance perspective, the changes would alter the balance of power in favor of the internal combustion engine, shifting the ratio from approximately 50/50 to around 64/36. While this would lead to a slight reduction in peak speeds—estimated at around 10 km/h on circuits like Miami—the overall impact on racing could be positive.
Lap times are expected to increase by roughly one to one and a half seconds, but this would be offset by a smoother and more consistent power delivery profile. Drivers would benefit from improved control, particularly in high-speed sections, and the racing spectacle could become more engaging as a result.
Aiming to restore the essence of Formula 1
The broader goal of these proposed adjustments is not simply to address isolated technical issues, but to realign the 2026 regulations with the core principles of Formula 1: performance, driver skill, and competitive racing. By reducing reliance on extreme energy management and restoring a more linear power curve, the FIA aims to create conditions that favor closer battles and more predictable car behavior.
In this evolving landscape, teams Ferrari stands to benefit from a more stable platform that allows them to fully exploit their capabilities without being overly constrained by energy limitations.
The coming months will be crucial in determining whether these proposed changes can be implemented effectively. While the challenges of the 2026 regulations are significant, the willingness of the FIA and Formula 1 to adapt suggests that a solution is within reach. If successful, these interventions could mark an important step toward restoring the balance between innovation and spectacle that defines the pinnacle of motorsport.
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