– According to Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu, upcoming rule changes in Formula 1 must not lead to cost explosions. The engineer is explicitly referring to adjustments to the power unit for 2027.
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“I would wish that the FIA and Formula 1 management pay attention to the teams on the topic of costs,” he said. “This engine regulation is already extremely expensive.”
For 2027, they want to move towards a 60-40 split between the combustion engine and the electric component after the previous problems. To achieve this goal, major restructuring measures may be necessary from the teams. Currently, they want to increase the fuel flow, lower the energy limit, and enlarge the batteries.
The consequence would be completely new tanks and elaborate chassis changes. Therefore, the possibility of raising the current budget cap for one year is even being discussed. An idea that Komatsu is not very fond of:
“I do not want to raise the budget cap,” explains the Haas team principal. “The budget cap is already much higher this year. And if you find another reason to raise the limit by two million or another five million, then it is no longer a budget cap.”
While the limit was still 135 million US dollars in 2025, the value is 215 million US dollars this season.
“If that costs the teams another five million, ten million, then that is not the right direction for us,” Komatsu explains. “From the team’s point of view, we have to simplify things and reduce costs in all areas.”
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Meanwhile, Haas is financially much better positioned than a few years ago. Once, team owner Gene Haas tried to compete in Formula 1 with as little financial input as possible. Nevertheless, they do not want to waste money at the Ferrari customer.
When asked whether an improvement in racing is possible in 2027, even though the cars are already being developed, Komatsu answers: “That depends on the scope of the changes.”
“If we find out which parameters do not throw the entire engine regulation overboard, for example no fundamental changes to the design or no adjustment of the battery size, then it is possible.”
“We are already trying that this year, aren’t we? With the rule adjustments for Miami, we wanted to find a way so that those who did a good job this year are not punished.”
“We look at safety issues, speed differences, or parts of the regulations that prevent drivers from going to the limit in qualifying.”
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In the constructors’ championship, Haas is in seventh place, two points behind Racing Bulls and 16 points behind Alpine.
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