The current F1 regulations were introduced in 2022 when the ground effect came into action. Formula One world experienced an enormous paradigm shift as things favored Red Bull. Meanwhile, Mercedes, despite winning consecutive world titles in the turbo hybrid era, was clueless about the latest aerodynamic norms.
Meanwhile, with the help of its experienced technical team, Red Bull designed an aerodynamically superior F1 project. The F1 car was ahead of its competition, establishing unparalleled domination. However, things have started to go downhill as the ground effect enters its final stage. The regulations are set to change again as FIA aims for sustainable racing. The upcoming 2026 regulatory revamp could be a sign of yet another power axis shift in F1. But is it going to have a negative impact on the defending champions?
The 2026 Regulations Change Would Shift The Power Axis
Formula 1 is gearing up for significant changes in 2026 with a new set of regulations aimed at enhancing sustainability, competition, and safety. These updates will make cars lighter, more aerodynamically efficient, and structurally stronger. While the overarching rules will apply to all teams, the FIA also considers a specific regulation for certain teams if it secures majority approval from stakeholders.
The proposed regulation targets customer teams that finish P5 or higher in the Constructors’ Championship, mandating that they independently produce all components, including transferable ones. Affected teams will be granted a three-year window to establish the necessary infrastructure and recruit additional personnel. Experts believe this measure effectively penalizes their success, adding a layer of complexity for customer teams.
Teams like Haas and RB, which rely heavily on Ferrari and Red Bull components, respectively, are expected to feel the immediate impact. Over time, other teams like Aston Martin, Alpine, McLaren, and Williams might also face challenges. Due to their close ties with their parent teams, the regulation has already drawn criticism, particularly from Haas and RB. RB, in particular, maintains a highly integrated relationship with Red Bull. Under the new rules, starting in 2026, critical components such as engines, transmissions, suspensions, hydraulics, and steering are expected to come from a single source, potentially disrupting their existing rhyme. These changes represent a significant shift in how customer teams operate within Formula 1.
Haas Chief Responds To The Proposed Regulations
Ayao Komatsu, expressing concerns over the proposed regulations for customer teams, highlighted the potential challenges these changes could bring to smaller outfits in Formula 1. He emphasized that forcing teams to independently produce components, even those traditionally supplied by larger manufacturers, would disproportionately strain smaller teams. This approach, he argued, could undermine the competitive balance that makes Formula 1 exciting.
Komatsu stressed that Formula 1 thrives on the narrative of underdogs challenging dominant teams, likening it to a classic “David versus Goliath” scenario. Forcing smaller teams to manufacture their own gearboxes or suspensions would not only increase operational costs but could also deter them from competing at a high level.