F1 2026: the changes are not enough, the risk is losing its DNA
The first updates to the 2026 Formula 1 regulations attempt to respond to widespread dissatisfaction, yet the debate remains far from settled. Between safety concerns, on-track spectacle, and the very identity of the sport, Formula 1 now faces the challenge of finding a balance without losing its core essence.
Yesterday marked the introduction of the first — and, for now, only — set of changes to the Formula 1 2026 regulations. These decisions were reached following a virtual meeting involving the FIA, Formula 1, Formula One Management (FOM), and all the teams.
The modifications, which we have previously outlined, affect several aspects of a race weekend, including qualifying sessions, race procedures, and starting formats. However, some of these changes will continue to be tested, particularly during the Miami Grand Prix and in wet track sessions.
Intervening in the 2026 Formula 1 regulations had become increasingly necessary. These adjustments were introduced in response to a growing wave of discontent, primarily voiced by drivers, but also by insiders and fans alike. The accumulation of statements, opinions, and countless media discussions has led to a shared concern: Formula 1 risks losing its DNA.
David Coulthard: “Formula 1 risks losing its identity”
It is within this context that comments from David Coulthard have gained particular relevance, as he focused on how modern Formula 1 may be drifting away from its original identity. Speaking on the Austrian show “Sport and Talk from Hangar-7,” the former McLaren driver shared his perspective:
“We need to be careful now. We must never lose sight of the fact that in qualifying, the driver who can extract the maximum from the car should be at the front. When you think about corners like Becketts or Eau Rouge, if you can now take them flat out without any issues, I don’t know…”.
These reflections resonate strongly, and there are numerous examples—particularly when considering iconic corners on the current calendar. “Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen,” Coulthard continued, “dominant drivers, have shown what they are capable of. Even today we have great drivers, but we are losing part of Formula 1’s DNA”.
Such statements come at a time when regulatory changes are being implemented and reflect a shared concern: that the pursuit of spectacle could come at the expense of the sport’s authentic nature.
Not just Coulthard: shared concerns across the paddock
In reality, Coulthard’s comments echo sentiments that had already been expressed by the very drivers he mentioned, even before the season-opening race in Melbourne. During pre-season testing in Bahrain, complaints from Max Verstappen and remarks from Lewis Hamilton made headlines, with both highlighting how difficult the new-generation cars are to interpret and manage.
While the seven-time world champion has, to some extent, softened his stance following the opening races, Verstappen has remained firm in his views, even going as far as hinting at a potential retirement from Formula 1.
Returning to the 2026 regulation changes, these were also driven—perhaps above all—by safety considerations, which were further highlighted by the incident at Suzuka involving Ollie Bearman and Franco Colapinto.
David Coulthard continued his remarks, reinforcing points that had already been raised on multiple occasions by drivers such as Carlos Sainz: “It was clear that an accident like that would happen sooner or later”. He added: “But when a car lifts off, as happened to Mark Webber and Heikki Kovalainen in Valencia, no one is in control anymore. We will see what happens in Miami”.
The Spanish driver has repeatedly emphasized how current regulations may pose challenges for drivers, stressing that decisions should not be based solely on team input, but should also heavily consider the perspective of those who lower the visor and take to the track, offering a far more direct understanding from inside the cockpit.
F1 2026: evolution or loss of identity?
The changes introduced therefore represent only an initial attempt to respond to these concerns. The aim is to progressively correct the limitations that have already emerged, starting as early as the Miami Grand Prix. The rationale behind the 2026 regulations becomes clearer when analyzing the different perspectives involved.
Formula 1 has always been synonymous with technological innovation and has consistently played a pioneering role in the automotive world. However, this pursuit of progress cannot come at the cost of distorting the very nature of the competition in favor of increased spectacle and on-track action.
To properly assess the effectiveness of these changes, attention will now turn to the next round of the season. The hope is that, step by step, drivers will once again be able to push closer to the limit. The goal is to see more actions driven by pure driving skill rather than energy management, all while maintaining the highest possible standards of safety.
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