George Russell compares the 2026 F1 regulations to a risky gold rush, emphasizing uncertainty in the race for early development.
It’s been underway since January 1: teams now have the full regulations for 2026 to begin developing the brand-new F1 cars for the upcoming season. Some, like Alpine F1, have already started wind tunnel work, testing an initial exploratory model of the A526.
While some teams see every reason to dive fully into 2026, having little to gain from 2025, George Russell pointed out that starting too early on the 2026 regulation shift does not guarantee success, likening it to “digging for gold.”
The 10-team grid faces an additional challenge this season as they must strike a balance between developing their current cars and focusing on the next-generation F1 designs.
This will place even greater demands on the front-running teams, as they must contend with reduced wind tunnel development time.
“If you look at 2021, Mercedes halted development on that year’s car early and shifted focus to the 2022 car. Meanwhile, Red Bull continued working on their 2021 car.”
“By the end of that season, Mercedes had the fastest car. Then, heading into 2022, Red Bull had the fastest car.”
“We’ll have to assess, early next year, how much effort to continue putting into the 2025 car. Ultimately, 2026 is like digging for gold before anyone else.”
“For the 2026 regulations, you’re digging, but you don’t know if you’re digging in the right places.”
“And in the end, it’s when you get on track and drive the car for the first time that teams start making the biggest gains. Nothing compares to the track.”
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2026 F1 Rules : Digging for Gold Without Knowing Where to Dig 2026 F1 Rules : Digging for Gold Without Knowing Where to Dig
