The 2026 Formula 1 power unit changes have sparked a debate over start procedures, but Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen have firmly dismissed concerns related to safety. At the centre of the discussion is the removal of the MGU-H, which now requires drivers to manually build up turbo revs in order to eliminate lag before the lights go out.
The process takes more time compared to the sequence used up until the 2025 season. Drivers must also avoid over-revving the engine or placing excessive stress on the energy system. During testing in Bahrain, several anti-stall situations have already been observed during practice starts.
Start stall concerns, the response from Verstappen and Hamilton
Some observers have suggested that in the opening races of the season, stalls on the grid could occur, raising the risk that drivers starting behind — without a full view ahead — might collide with a car that remains stationary. Lewis Hamilton, however, downplayed the issue.
“It’s absolutely not dangerous, and I think we should remove that connotation, because it’s simply a different procedure,” he told the media. “It’s just a longer procedure compared to the past. If the five lights were to come on now, we would probably stay stationary a little longer after they go out, but you can still start even if the turbo isn’t fully pressurised.”
The seven-time world champion then added that the potential use of anti-stall does not represent a concrete risk. “Anti-stall will probably happen more often, but I don’t think it’s anything dangerous.”
Max Verstappen also brushed aside the concerns with irony. “If you feel unsafe, start from the pit lane. You’ll recover by Turn 4 anyway.” A remark that underlines how the four-time world champion does not consider the new start procedure to be a critical safety issue.
Bottas’ view and the issue for those at the back
Valtteri Bottas highlighted a more technical aspect, particularly affecting drivers starting on the back rows. Those at the rear of the grid have less time to complete the engine rev sequence before the lights go out. “Honestly, I don’t think it’s more dangerous than before. The main difference is that now we have to keep the engine revs higher for longer,” he explained. “If you are at the back of the grid, by the time you start holding the revs high, the lights might already go out and you wouldn’t have enough time to spool up the turbo.”
According to Valtteri Bottas, however, the matter is manageable. “It’s mainly an issue for those starting at the back, but we will find solutions. I don’t see any danger in simply having to hold higher revs for a longer period.”
The FIA evaluates a new start procedure
Just hours after the drivers’ comments, the FIA tested a modified start procedure. The system includes an additional formation lap and a warning signal before the start, with all grid panels flashing blue for five seconds prior to the activation of the normal light sequence.
A sign that the Federation is closely monitoring the situation, even in the absence of a genuine safety alarm according to the leading figures of the championship.
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