Domenicali Stays Calm Amid 2026 F1 Development Concerns

Domenicali Eases Concerns Over 2026 F1 Car Development

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali remains confident about the 2026 regulations, assuring that while hurdles exist, development is on track with no major worries.

The 2025 Formula 1 season has yet to begin, but 2026 was already on everyone’s mind during winter testing in Sakhir.

For the vast majority of teams, the cars running in Bahrain will see very little development at the start of the season—if any at all after a few races—as the focus shifts to the all-new 2026 F1 cars.

But it’s not just chassis and aerodynamics that will evolve; entirely new power units are also set to debut. With a 50% thermal and 50% electric split, these raise several unanswered questions.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali was asked about the ongoing concerns. Has he received positive updates from the engine manufacturers?

“As always, when there is a regulation change, many questions arise about who is working best, who knows how to, or has been able to, maximize performance under an entirely new set of rules. Things are progressing well, even though I hear about difficulties here and there. There’s still nearly a year to resolve them. I’m not worried.”

“There are therefore high expectations, and it is natural that part of the ecosystem at this stage is asking us why we are making changes at a time when the championships are so competitive. But this has always been the case in the Formula 1 cycle.”

“I believe that now, in terms of technological development, we are placing sustainable fuel at the center. This is something that will drive a new way of thinking about the technological involvement of the future in Formula 1. That is why I am quite convinced about it.”

“We must keep the spectacle at the forefront, ensuring that the drivers remain at the center of the stage and that technological choices for the future remain relevant in this regard. We must bear this in mind because it is important to acknowledge that our fan base is evolving in terms of interest, and we have a duty to ensure the right balance between so-called traditional fans and new fans.”

“That is the goal we want to keep in sight, all together.”