The start of the new F1 era has been full of controversy. Social media is flooded with criticism, ranging from fans judging the cars as unfit to represent the pinnacle of motorsport, to decisions perceived as regulatory favors during the opening phase of the season. It is on this last point that we want to focus today.
In such a complex period, giving the impression of favoritism is far from ideal. The public is already frustrated by super-clipping and the obsessive care drivers must take with energy management. Adding a convoluted decision-making system that seems to advantage the same teams or drivers only amplifies fan dissatisfaction.
The need for clarity and fairness
Beyond finding a solution to super-clipping and ensuring drivers have sufficient energy to push through corners (issues that will be addressed in the meeting with teams and engine suppliers on April 9), the FIA must also avoid creating the perception that any team is being favored.
A clear stance is essential; when the governing body hesitates, the sport always suffers. Situations such as being flexible with the late closure of the front wing, contrasted with a Ferrari that chose to run the Chinese Grand Prix without the proposed halo fins on Saturday to avoid a penalty, should no longer occur. The compression ratio issue is a separate matter; Mercedes currently passes all FIA checks, and additional inspections in June will provide further clarity.
Power usage in qualifying must be transparent
The situation regarding how Mercedes and Red Bull use electric motor power during qualifying is also problematic. Teams should not need to submit a written request for clarification (as Ferrari did) to understand the rules. The FIA should make its position clear autonomously.
If the FIA intended to be more flexible this year, it should have communicated this from the outset, specifying precisely where flexibility would apply. In areas like aerodynamics and especially all aspects involving the power unit, further clarity and a firm stance are necessary.
The message matters
We do not believe that the FIA is currently favoring any particular team. Unfortunately, the perception it conveys suggests otherwise, which is a real shame because when such ambiguity exists, the sport itself suffers the consequences.
The integrity of the 2026 championship rests on the FIA’s ability to provide a level playing field that fans can understand and trust. As we look ahead to the next rounds, the pressure is on the governing body to move away from “grey areas” and toward a strictly enforced rulebook. By prioritizing consistency over compromise, the FIA can ensure that the headlines remain focused on the racing on the track rather than the politics in the paddock.
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