Drivers Say 2026 F1 Rules Don't Remove Driving Skill

During a pre‑season interview, the four active world champions highlighted that the 2026 hybrid engines require more energy management, but they still push the cars to the edge of grip. Verstappen called the new power unit “not Formula 1”, Hamilton described it as “ridiculously complex”, Alonso said a “chef could drive the car at that speed”, and Norris added it is “not the purest form of driving.”

At the Bahrain test, all drivers confirmed they were still on the limit of grip most of the time. The new cars have less downforce, so corners are more power‑limited, but the skill to brake late, take the apex and exit fast remains decisive. A faster driver will still beat a slower one, the drivers agreed.