The changes to the Formula 1 regulations for 2026 have generated a lot of criticism from drivers. The 50/50 split of the power unit between electric energy and combustion is leading many competitors to compare the new tactical scheme to video games. Despite this, some have made positive assessments of the new cars, such as Esteban Ocon.
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The Haas driver stated that the current cars resemble those from 2016, especially in cornering behavior: “I think the positive point is the feeling of the car in the corners,” he said. “It’s much closer to how it probably was in 2016, like the good 2016 cars, the top cars.”
According to the Frenchman, the drivability is more predictable and balanced. “Definitely, the way you slide, how you can attack the corners, is much more predictable and much better in terms of balance and also how the car behaves overall. So, for me, that’s a step forward compared to last year.”
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Ocon also highlighted the increase in overtaking at the Australian GP, a cause for complaint from other drivers, who claimed the moves are artificial. “There was more overtaking, more wheel-to-wheel racing during the race, which was definitely positive. Is it simple to drive? No. Can the driver make enough of a difference with their style to make chess moves? No. And that is probably the negative point at the moment.”
For this weekend’s Chinese GP, energy levels will be higher, which should reduce the criticized “superclipping” seen in Australia. The FIA (International Automobile Federation) also informed that it will evaluate possible changes to energy distribution after the race in Shanghai.
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