– While the criticism of the new Formula 1 regulations for the 2026 season does not subside, Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur supports those responsible. In view of the debates about the high electric share of the new engines and the so-called “yo-yo effect” during overtaking maneuvers, the Frenchman describes the current system as more authentic than the previous solution with the adjustable rear wing.
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“Honestly, we had good races and many overtaking maneuvers. You could say that maybe it feels a bit artificial, but for me it is much less artificial than DRS,” said Vasseur on the sidelines of the Miami Grand Prix.
For the Ferrari team principal, the difference lies in the driver’s influence: “DRS just meant pressing a button. Today it is energy management, and that comes from the drivers or the team. It is not artificial at all and I would say that we certainly still need to make fine adjustments and adapt.”
Since this season, battery management during races plays a crucial role. This has led to a new dynamic: positions are often immediately regained after an overtaking maneuver, as the energy levels of the competitors fluctuate.
Vasseur praises good cooperation with the FIA
The statistics seem to confirm the trend. At the Australian Grand Prix, 120 overtaking maneuvers were recorded, compared to only 45 the previous year. Critics, however, complain that the duels lose value and seem artificial as a result.
Not so for Vasseur, who also emphasizes the good cooperation between the manufacturers and the FIA. “Thanks to the FIA, we had the opportunity to discuss after each event to improve the system. Again, it is not easy to do this during the season, but I think we are all working together constructively.”
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Looking to the future, further adjustments are on the table. “Regarding the future, we have various options on the table. I think it will soon be time to discuss the different options. But from the beginning, we had one parameter in mind: reducing the insane costs for the engine. This applies to the manufacturers, but also to the customers and to the benefit of Formula 1,” Vasseur continued.
Mattia Binotto sees “great show” for the fans
Vasseur receives support from Audi project leader Mattia Binotto. The former Ferrari team principal also views the development positively: “Our drivers enjoy the current format and I think it was a big change compared to the past. Everyone has to adapt to the changes, but overall it was a great show for the fans when you look at the races.”
Binotto warns against prematurely criticizing the new system: “I would not be so negative about the current format. Overall, I think it is a good format. If you look back, there were eras when Formula 1 was more boring.”
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Decisions on possible adjustments to the engine rules for the following year are expected by mid-May. Among other things, a shift in the ratio between combustion engine and electric energy to a 60:40 distribution is being discussed.
