– Gabriel Bortoleto has downplayed the ongoing criticism from many drivers regarding the Formula 1 rules for 2026 and called for the discussions to be left behind. The Audi driver believes that the premier class has not lost any of its fascination despite the changed vehicle characteristics.
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With the switch to the new regulations, the cars have changed significantly compared to the vehicles from 2022 to 2025. While the previous generation could take many fast corners at full throttle thanks to its high downforce, the current cars require lifting off the throttle more often due to the changed concept and energy management.
Although the rules on energy use were slightly revised after adjustments in Miami to slow down battery discharge, the topic remains present in the paddock. Further changes are planned for 2027 and 2028. Among other things, the power of the combustion engines is to be increased by a higher fuel flow to compensate for some of the current weaknesses.
Bortoleto contradicts the criticism of many colleagues
Several drivers had pointed out ahead of the British Grand Prix that Silverstone puts particularly high demands on the cars’ energy budget. Oscar Piastri also expressed concern that the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa Francorchamps could highlight the problem even more clearly and thus reduce part of the driving challenge.
Bortoleto, however, sees the situation more calmly. After the race in Silverstone, the Brazilian explains: “I don’t think we’ve lost the magic of this sport. We’re still going damn fast through Copse. That’s 280 km/h, so I still have to lift off the throttle for this corner.”
He adds: “It’s not like you can just take the corner effortlessly or think: ‘We’re not using the available grip at all.’ Of course, the concept was different last year, but I think we should move on from the topic. These are the rules we’re racing by now.”
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“We should move on from the topic”
According to the Audi driver, Formula 1 should come to terms with the current regulations instead of constantly questioning them. After all, the current regulations are expected to remain in place until the end of 2030. After that, Formula 1 will consider a possible return to naturally aspirated V8 engines.
“If people are still complaining about it, then they should just leave the topic behind. As far as I know, these rules apply until 2030,” says Bortoleto. “And if we get new rules in 2031, we can talk about it again.”
Current cars still provide driving pleasure
Photo series: The Audi design for 2026
At the same time, the Brazilian emphasizes that he still enjoys driving the current cars. Above all, the more agile driving dynamics of the new chassis are appreciated by many drivers.
“We can’t talk about the same problem every time for three years, because these are simply the rules we have. The cars are still fun to drive. It’s different. We have to adapt to it, and that’s life,” Bortoleto concludes.
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With his statements, the Audi driver opposes the ongoing criticism of some colleagues and advocates focusing on adapting to the existing regulations instead of continuously questioning their foundations.
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