The radical changes for the 2026 Formula 1 cars debut this week at the Australian GP, but continue to generate distinct reactions in the paddock. Four-time champion Max Verstappen made harsh criticisms of the new regulations, but Liam Lawson, from Racing Bulls adopted a more measured tone and asked for time to adapt to the new regulations.
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In the pre-season tests that took place in Barcelona and Bahrain, Verstappen classified the new era of F1 as “Formula E on steroids.” Lawson, however, highlighted that the technical package is still in its early stages, including the new chassis rules, and that teams need time to develop the cars and the engines split equally between battery and combustion.
“It’s definitely harder to get off the line than last year,” the New Zealander told the press. He acknowledged the differences compared to the previous model, developed over five years, but believes a solution will be found: “I’m sure we’re going to learn and improve, and the main thing is how we’re going to develop it and make it faster, because it’s still in the early stages, but we want to be faster, especially compared to some of the top teams.”
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Lawson also highlighted the need to adapt to the characteristics of the new car, an important issue for the drivers. “You get much busier, but as we spend more time driving, it will start to become natural, but at the moment, the loss of downforce is making driving much harder.”
The Australian GP, which opens the season, takes place between March 5 and 8. F1Mania.net follows the entire event in real time.
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