F1 CEO baffled by ‘panic’ surrounding feared aspect of 2026 regulations

14:01, 23 Feb

byTobia Elia

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has assured that the new 2026 cars will deliver “incredible racing” despite the scepticism that emerged during Bahrain testing.

"I don't understand the panic that is going around. There will be incredible racing, a lot of action and that is the most important thing"

- Stefano Domenicali

Domenicali dismisses ‘panic’ over one of 2026 rules’ biggest fears

The Italian executive said he is not concerned by the issue at all, adding that, as with every major regulatory overhaul, time is needed before the new era of Formula 1 fully takes shape.

"I don't understand the panic that is going around. There will be incredible racing, a lot of action and that is the most important thing. We need to stay calm because as always when there are new regulations - as there was in 2014, 2017 and 2021 - there is a doubt that everything is wrong. I am not worried at all."

Domenicali also stressed that adapting to driving radically different next-generation cars is simply a matter of getting used to them, adding that the comments made over the course of the season are likely to be very different.

"The evolution behind the technology of the car requires a different way of driving the cars. That has happened in the past, and it will happen in the future, too. I am pretty sure when we sit down in the middle of the year, or the end of the year, you will see different comments. This is normal in Formula 1."

Photo: RacePictures.

Domenicali breaks silence on private talks with Verstappen after explosive criticism

Responding to the four-time world champion’s strong criticism of the new regulations, Domenicali revealed that he had held a lengthy and constructive discussion with him, emphasising that the opinion of such a key figure in F1 would be carefully taken into account.

He explained that he had personally met with Verstappen and expressed confidence that the Dutchman would remain a central figure in the sport’s future, underlining the importance of listening to leading drivers. Domenicali added that Verstappen’s comments can sometimes be interpreted in different ways, but insisted that his passion and commitment to F1 are unquestionable and that he deeply cares about the sport’s direction.

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