Seven-time world champion Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton has questioned the new rules in Formula 1, but said the new engines, which will be used from 2026, are a “brave step”.
The International Automobile Federation (FIA) has announced that from 2026, Formula 1 cars will be smaller, more nimble and more environmentally friendly.
According to the new rules that come into force from 2026, the cars will be 30 kilograms lighter than today, 10 centimeters narrower and have engines with an almost 50-50 split between electric and internal combustion power and will use fully sustainable fuels.
Hamilton has repeatedly asked for the cars to be lighter.
“It’s only 30 kilos and it’s going in the right direction, but the cars are still heavy. I’ve spoken to a few drivers who’ve driven them on the simulator, I haven’t, and they say they’re quite slow and we’ll see if that’s a good direction or not. But in terms of sustainability, especially in the form of aggregates, it’s a really brave step and it’s going in the right direction,” Hamilton said, the BBC reported.
At the heart of the 2026 rules is a concept the FIA has described as an “agile car”.
“We have to make sure that the cars are efficient, fast, that they are a step forward and that the racing is actually improving,” added the seven-time world champion.
The Formula 1 championship continues this weekend in Canada, and the race is scheduled for Sunday at 8 pm in Montreal.
