The latest Formula One rules demand a new driving style

The latest Formula One rules demand a new driving style

Chaotic starts, tricky overtaking and lifting off the gas on the straights. Formula One’s new set of regulations could affect the series in unexpected ways as the season begins with the Australian GP next week.

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton of Ferrari, the two most successful drivers on the grid, were critical during the testing of cars, whose electrical hybrid systems promote unusual driving styles and make racing more strategic.

Four-time champion Verstappen branded the cars “no fun” and suggested that they might be a factor in considering retirement, while seven-time title-winner Hamilton suggested that the rules are too complex for the fans to grasp.

Despite big changes, the top-four teams are the same, as Mercedes, Ferrari, McLaren and Red Bull showed promise in testing. The “big four”, as McLaren boss Zak Brown calls them, are broadly similar on pace, with Mercedes and Ferrari perhaps having a slight edge in race simulations in testing.

During the final test, Ferrari revealed a rear wing that turns upside down for straight-line speed and an innovative mini-wing behind the exhaust. It stood out as the fastest in practice starts while the other teams, especially Mercedes, were sluggish off the line.

The rivals have praised Red Bull for mastering the electrical power technology, while defending champion Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri seem consistently strong again for McLaren, which uses a Mercedes engine.

Mercedes’ mix of power and reliability could make George Russell a true championship contender. There is extra attention on Mercedes’ engine, which was fast in testing following weeks of speculation about its legality.

Even with star designer Adrian Newey in charge, Aston Martin was late to testing, unreliable, and often slower than new team Cadillac. Williams and Alpine have also struggled while Haas may be able to challenge the top teams.

The push by the FIA for a 50-50 split between power from the engine and from electrical hybrid technology means driving in 2026 is all about compromise. The FIA could intervene to tweak the regulations if the first few races throw up bizarre scenarios.