Fernando Alonso warned that the 2026 Formula 1 regulations, with increased electrification, strict energy-management rules and tighter technical limits, risk reducing driver control and even taking some of the joy out of driving. Speaking after his first day in the Aston Martin AMR26 and again at the team launch in Saudi Arabia, the two-time world champion said the rules push electrification toward a near 50/50 split between electric and combustion power, make harvesting and electrical deployment central to race strategy, and force lifting and coasting even during qualifying as drivers may need to recharge the hybrid battery mid-session.

Alonso singled out specific technical constraints he called “over-restrictive,” including ramp-down rates, activation zones for overtake mode and a rule requiring maximum energy deployment for one second at corner exits. He warned that extensive team simulation work under the new package left little room for individual talent to alter race outcomes, saying teams “had most answers by Thursday and there were few surprises by Sunday,” and that the changes had reduced some of the “adrenaline” that came with lighter, louder cars of the late 1990s and early 2000s. He described the heightened energy-management requirements as “a bit annoying,” but also said teams and drivers would adapt, pointing to series such as IndyCar and the World Endurance Championship.

Reactions in the paddock were mixed: Lando Norris and Toto Wolff suggested smarter drivers could still gain an edge under the new rules, while Aston Martin designer Adrian Newey and driver Lance Stroll were more skeptical or indifferent about how racing style would change. Mercedes’ George Russell said he did not find the situation unnatural and Haas rookie Oliver Bearman called it “a bit sad.” Aston Martin has pursued radical new design concepts for pre-season testing and there were reported concerns about Honda’s power unit after a Barcelona shakedown. Alonso’s views carried extra weight given he is 44, has started a record 425 Grands Prix and has an Aston Martin contract due to expire at the end of the season.

Sources