Ferrari and Carlos Sainz clash with rivals over controversial F1 2027 engine changes. Carlos Sainz has called on the FIA and Formula One Management to take a strong stance on potential 2027 engine regulation changes.

F1 engine chaos for 2027: Sainz calls for drastic decision and criticises Ferrari

After two months of intense discussions, controversy and sharp criticism surrounding the new Formula 1 power units—considered overly dependent on electric energy and complex energy management systems—the sport’s key stakeholders, including teams, the FIA and Formula One Management, had already agreed to consider a significant revision starting from 2027.

This proposed correction of direction, however, is now running into the familiar political dynamics that have always shaped Formula 1. Any mid-cycle regulatory change risks shifting the competitive balance too heavily in favour of those who are already ahead, making consensus increasingly difficult to achieve.

Among those calling for swift and decisive action is Carlos Sainz. The Spanish driver, who also serves as president of the GPDA, the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, has publicly urged the FIA and FOM to take a strong position without being influenced by the individual interests of manufacturers.

At the centre of the debate is the potential revision of the balance between the internal combustion engine and the electric component of the hybrid system. The power units introduced for 2026 have significantly increased the importance of electrical energy, creating noticeable performance differences in certain phases of deployment and energy recovery.

In some situations, cars with a fully charged battery are significantly faster than those in energy-recovery phases, while on other circuits the need to constantly recharge energy has limited drivers’ ability to push at full intensity throughout the lap. These inconsistencies have fuelled criticism from fans, drivers and paddock insiders alike.

For 2027, discussions are now focused on a potential rebalancing of the regulations towards a more traditional configuration, with an estimated 60% of performance coming from the combustion engine and 40% from the electric component. Such a shift could help reduce some of the unintended side effects already observed on track this season.

“There is the Commission where the teams have voting rights, and that is exactly where I have asked the FIA and FOM to push this proposal forward and remain committed to the direction we have chosen,” Sainz explained.

“If they believe this is the right solution, I am convinced that the teams who are currently complaining or not fully aligned will have no choice but to adapt. Of course, consensus is needed, but if it is for the good of the sport, the racing and the spectacle, I am in favour of a very decisive approach from those who govern Formula 1.”

The Spaniard’s comments come amid reports that some manufacturers, including Audi and Ferrari, have expressed concerns about making such rapid changes to a regulation cycle that has only just come into effect. The issue is particularly sensitive given the massive financial investments required to develop the new generation of power units for the 2026 revolution.

There is also a growing concern that manufacturers already in a strong position, such as Mercedes and Red Bull, could benefit disproportionately from any mid-cycle regulatory adjustments.

Despite the controversy, Sainz remains convinced that there is still room for meaningful improvement.

“I think there is still space to improve this engine and this regulation through the changes being proposed for next year,” he said.

“I don’t think much more can be done for 2026. Personally, I’ve almost decided to stop complaining, because it’s clear that this season is not ideal and it will not suddenly become so. But I am very optimistic for next year and for how much things can still change.”

This situation perfectly illustrates the increasingly delicate balance Formula 1 must strike between technological innovation, sustainability targets and on-track spectacle. On one side are manufacturers who have invested billions into developing the new power units; on the other is the need to ensure more natural, understandable and engaging racing for fans.

The problem is that time is running out. If the 2027 regulations are to be modified, manufacturers will require clarity quickly in order to adjust their development programmes accordingly.

Delaying a decision further would only increase the risk of technical and political uncertainty. And just one season after introducing the new rules, that is probably the last thing Formula 1 needs.