FIA explains why 2026 power-unit rules could not be changed earlier

Halfway through the inaugural year of the 2026 Formula 1 rule package, the FIA has clarified why it could not intervene sooner on the power-unit formula. Nicolas Tombazis explained that a binding governance agreement with power-unit manufacturers, signed in 2022, restricts unilateral changes and demands approval from a majority of the firms. Drivers, including Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri, have publicly criticized the new electric-heavy setup, describing it as overly reliant on computers and restrictive on energy management.

While the FIA says it foresaw many of these complaints, the need for a super-majority vote meant proposed tweaks could not be adopted until a recent May meeting. Tombazis expressed regret that the 60-40 power split for 2027-2028 was delayed, noting that earlier action could have avoided current debates. Despite the technical friction, he highlighted that races have remained entertaining, with Mercedes currently holding a performance edge.