Next year will feel like a dilemma, even a nightmare, for technical directors. It will indeed be necessary to develop the current car, but especially thinking about 2026 and the new technical regulations (new chassis and engines).
The puzzle risks being all the more thorny for the top teams, who will potentially fight for a world title in 2026. Even though next year, the fight should once again be very close at the top – and therefore Therefore, each little new piece could make a difference.
How does McLaren F1 boss Andrea Stella plan to handle the situation in Woking?
“First of all, I would say that I agree with you. This season, the level of competitiveness is perhaps unprecedented, as four teams are capable of winning races…and potentially capable of contending for championships. So the current standards in Formula 1 are very, very high. And to stay competitive, you have to make a lot of investments in terms of development, in terms of performance, which then poses the challenge that you mention: where are you actually making these investments? »
“I think that teams today have the capacity to carry out two projects simultaneously. So, personally, I don't think we'll leave a lot of performance on the table, because of the need to make a choice about prioritizing development. »
So will McLaren F1 develop its car all year round, in 2025? Isn't that too big a risk?
“At some point, maybe next year, early in the year, I would expect a decision to have to be made, and it might depend on what your opportunities to win races actually are and fight for the championship. »
Horner faces a choice « difficile » for next year
At Red Bull, Christian Horner may well be faced with the same dilemma as at McLaren F1. A dilemma perhaps even more difficult because Red Bull will become its own engine manufacturer in 2026, with Red Bull Powertrains.
What is his view on the matter?
“Yes, it's a difficult challenge, because we have the biggest regulatory change in probably 50 or 60 years in the history of this sport. With that in mind, we hate to finish third in the championship, but the extra time in the wind tunnel that comes with it is, if you will, the only advantage in a year where there is such a dramatic regulatory change. »
“It’s a constant balance. And if you're in a close battle, inevitably your development is pulled further into the season, which is particularly difficult. We saw this in 2021 and 2022, where there was a big conceptual change to the regulations. Obviously, the earlier you start, the more advantages you have. »
“But if there is a tight championship that goes down to the last race, it is going to be a difficult balance for the different teams in how they allocate their resources. »
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