Carlos Sainz Urges F1 to Address New Engine Rules Despite Ferrari Opposition

F1 Features
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Carlos Sainz Critiques F1’s New Engine Era

1. The Three Main Problems

Sainz highlighted the aspects of the new regulations he dislikes most:

  1. Top Speed Loss on Straights – Drivers must lift and coast, losing 30–40 kph in the middle of qualifying laps.

  2. Artificial Overtaking – Boost/Overtake modes can create 60 kph differences, allowing passes that feel unrealistic or “not the DNA of Formula 1.”

  3. Energy Management Complexity – The constant need to harvest and deploy battery power disrupts natural racing flow, especially at starts and mid-lap sections.

Sainz: “Anything that allows you to overtake like if the other car is completely stopped… I just see that’s not the DNA of the sport.”

2. Calls for Regulatory Action

  • Sainz believes development alone won’t fix these issues—rules need tweaking:

    “Development can only take you so far, and I also think we need a bit of help from the regulations.”

  • He urges F1 and the FIA to prioritise the sport’s integrity over individual team interests:

    “F1 should have enough power… to do what’s best for the sport, irrespective of opposition from some teams.”

3. Context

  • The criticisms come after the 2026 Australian Grand Prix, where battery-dependent racing created frequent lead swaps and artificial-looking overtakes.

  • Sainz has previously called for F1 to remain open-minded about mid-season adjustments to ensure races are entertaining and true to the spirit of the sport.

4. Summary

Sainz’s message is clear:

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  • Formula 1’s DNA must be preserved—speed, skill, and strategic overtakes, not energy-based artificial passes.

  • FIA intervention may be needed to ensure the new era delivers exciting, fair, and authentic racing.