Formula 1 drivers have intensified discussions about the 2026 rules following Oliver Bearman’s heavy crash at the Japanese GP. According to the former driver of the category, but still one of the members of the GPDA (Grand Prix Drivers’ Association) Alexander Wurz, the competitors’ WhatsApp group is more active than ever in the search for solutions.
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Wurz stated that conversations increased after the accident involving Bearman in Suzuka. The episode reignited safety concerns and once again highlighted criticisms of the 2026 rules, which had already been questioned by several drivers.
During the race, Bearman quickly approached Franco Colapinto’s car, which had significantly reduced speed due to being out of energy. When the Argentine moved the car to the left, the speed difference caused a high-speed accident, which ended with the Briton hitting the barrier hard, but fortunately with only a few abrasions and no serious injuries.
Faced with growing concern, a meeting with the main parties involved is scheduled for April 09. However, despite the increased pressure, significant changes to the regulations are not expected to occur immediately, and any deeper changes are considered unlikely before the 2027 season.
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Wurz revealed that drivers have been intensely discussing possible solutions and technical adjustments: “That famous WhatsApp group we created in 2015 or 2016 is absolutely exploding right now. I’ve never seen it so active, honestly, even before the podcast it was busy,” he stated.
The former Austrian driver also highlighted the diversity of topics discussed by the competitors: “There is a lot going on there, emotions, possible solutions, ideas technical and discussions about how to ensure everyone understands that the drivers need to be heard,” he added.
This increase in mobilization shows that the drivers are trying to reach a consensus to present concrete suggestions. With the debate gaining momentum, the expectation is that discussions will advance in the coming weeks, especially with the scheduled meeting, while the category evaluates possible ways to improve safety under the new rules.
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