Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton defended the category’s new rules, contrary to the opinion of several drivers on the current grid. The Briton stated that the new generation of cars offers more authentic racing and that this is the ideal path for the future of F1.
Read more F1: Coulthard does not believe in FIA reaction after Verstappen criticism
The changes in the regulations implemented in 2026 have received much criticism because of the heavy dependence on energy recovery and use, which has caused ‘yo-yo’ style racing, with drivers losing positions after overtaking due to a depleted battery. Even so, Hamilton believes that this behavior represents a more natural contest than artificial solutions used previously.
The Briton compared the current scenario with the previous era, when DRS was used to facilitate overtaking. For him, the system worked as a temporary solution to a larger problem, making more authentic contests on the tracks difficult: “We had DRS before, which I think was a kind of stopgap solution for this problem, the fact of not being able to get close enough in the corners. Now we have the power difference, but it is small every lap,” Hamilton told the press.
According to the Ferrari driver, the effect of this is that the contests become more balanced: “When you take the lead, the cars behind can still keep up with you,” he said.
Hamilton highlighted as an example his battle with teammate Charles Leclerc at the Chinese GP. The Briton got the better of the duel and secured his first podium with the team, in a contest he described as one of the most fun in recent years.
Read more With an international career, Nicolas Costa arrives at NASCAR Brasil in 2026
He also stated that he considers the current car more enjoyable to drive than previous versions: “Personally, I find it much more fun, it was the most overtaking and the best contest I’ve had probably since Bahrain, years ago, with Nico Rosberg.”
For Hamilton, this type of direct confrontation is what defines real racing: “This is how racing should be. It should be attack and counter-attack, not just an overtake and it’s over. I like this type of racing,” he added.
The Briton concluded by stating that the next step is to reduce the gap between the teams to further increase competitiveness: “We just need the rest of the teams to get closer so we have more of these battles between all of us,” he completed.
Read more Murilo Rocha debuts in NASCAR Brasil in Santa Cruz do Sul
