F1 has made great progress in recent weeks on the 2026 rules in order to improve planned performances on the track.
There were numerous discussions and the finalization of the rules was delayed because the first simulations reported single-seaters that would be too slow, or even too close to current F2 cars.
The performance profile of the 2026 F1 cars has changed, notably with more aerodynamic downforce, which made them a little faster in the simulator.
This progress was welcomed in Brazil by the team bosses.
“I think the FIA, but also the teams, have done a very good job to reach a solution which, in my opinion, is much better today,” says James Vowles, Williams F1 boss.
“In any given situation, we have more freedom to explore these regulations. It allows us to get more performance at the same time. I think we've achieved a better balance. And that's really good. I have already, but that's because it was a really good reflection on how all the teams came together with the FIA to produce these regulations as one, coherent on paper. That's why it all came together. in place so quickly.”
“Yes, first of all, I would like to completely express my agreement with James regarding the good work, the good collaboration between the FIA and the teams, which is important to highlight,” continues Andrea Stella, for McLaren F1.
“I think in terms of corner speed, now, in simulation, it looks much more convincing. It will still be able to deliver good racing, confirm Formula 1 as the pinnacle of motorsport. So from that point of view , the downforce level seems to be in a much better position I think there are still a few weeks of work left and I hope that this will lead us to the goal which will guarantee a good race and good overall speed like us. We all want to see him in a Formula 1 car.”
As an active observer, Mario Isola, for Pirelli F1, must also follow the progress closely because this will impact the loads on his future tires, still 18 inches but a little narrower.
“We are continuing our development plan. Obviously, we are monitoring the technical regulations in order to have a tire that can suit the expected performance of the cars. The limitation we have is that the mule tests are obviously not entirely representative of this. which we will find in 2026.”
“We have a test, the first one in the wet in the next few weeks. It's already planned and we will continue and we will try to do our best to have a good product.”
“Most of the work is on the virtual model of the tire and we have fantastic cooperation with the teams to test this model on their simulators and progress with the feedback.”
