Lewis Hamilton raised concerns about the new F1 rules in 2026, acknowledging that he doesn’t think he’s “going in the right direction.”
In 2026, F1 has introduced new regulations to make cars slightly smaller and lighter, focusing on power on the power unit side.
It also has active aerodynamics and is expected to have a significant impact on wheel-to-wheel racing.
Several drivers and team staff have already questioned the new rules after initial testing on the simulator.
When Hamilton spoke to SkyItalia in Imola, he expressed his opinion on the new rules.
“Personally, I don’t think it’s going in the right direction,” Hamilton said.
“Maybe I’ll be surprised next year. Maybe we’ll arrive and the car is really good.”
He added:
“I mean, I think they’ll be lighter next year, but this generation of cars are the heaviest cars I’ve raced. I miss the sound. When I hear the V12 Ferrari, it’s passion.
“It’s a good idea to go to the world from a sustainability perspective as soon as we started the V6, but I think it was positive in that respect. But we can’t get away with the fact that it’s not the same as when we saw Michael Schumacher’s car passing in 2003.
Hamilton reflects on his “busy” start to Ferrari’s career
Hamilton revealed how busy his busy life has been since he moved to Ferrari.
The results on the track aren’t meeting expectations, but Hamilton admitted that the pressure is the highest ever.
“This year was the busiest first half I’ve ever had,” he added.
“It certainly is the pressure is the best and I want everything about myself.
“But when you are in the face of reality, we are not currently fighting for the World Championships from a purely pace perspective.
“My first year at Mercedes was also difficult for the first six months, because this is a Ferrari.
“The direction and setup I pushed the car worked well in China. And we have to pull back some things. Since then, we haven’t been able to get there.”
