Formula One is under growing pressure to revise its 2026 engine regulations after complaints about the balance between combustion and electric power. The current formula splits power almost evenly between internal combustion engines (ICE) and batteries, which has drawn sharp criticism from drivers and teams alike [1].
Lando Norris, a world champion and McLaren driver, said the sport should "get rid of the battery." He added, "It’s a small step in the right direction but it’s not to the level that Formula One should still be at yet," and "Honestly, I don’t really think you can fix that. You just have to get rid of the battery. So hopefully in a few years, that’s the case" [1]. His teammate Oscar Piastri agreed that more changes are needed, saying, "The collaboration again from the FIA and F1 has been good, but there’s only so many things you can change with the hardware we have. So some changes in the future are still needed for sure. How quickly we can do it is the big question" [1].
The FIA and Formula One introduced fresh regulations during the Miami Grand Prix on May 3 to address concerns about energy management safety and performance under the 2026 engine rules [1]. These adjustments were seen as successful in improving the situation during the weekend’s races, where Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli won and Norris finished second [1].
However, pressure has persisted for more extensive changes since the event. Any hardware redesign to increase fuel flow to the ICE would require agreement among teams and engine manufacturers by the Canadian Grand Prix in three weeks. This timeline is critical if changes are to be incorporated for the 2027 season [1].
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem also indicated a possible future shift away from the current V6 hybrid engines, suggesting Formula One could return to V8 engines, though this remains a medium-confidence projection [1].
Teams and regulators now face a narrow window to negotiate engine rule alterations amid ongoing criticism from drivers about the sport’s battery reliance and energy split in the new formula.
