Sky Sports Formula 1 lead commentator David Croft has slammed the 2026 power units, saying they robbed fans of the racing they deserved at classic tracks such as Spa‑Francorchamps and Silverstone.
The Verdict on 2026 Power Units
Following Kimi Antonelli’s decisive win in Belgium—trailing only Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen—Croft noted that the newly‑installed energy‑focused formula exposed the limits of the season’s regulation changes. He praised aerodynamic upgrades but voiced deep frustration over the power‑unit dynamics that, in his view, failed to deliver true competition.
“Championships are won and lost across a variety of circuits, and teams build and drive cars to fit those demands,” Croft said, before adding that the current power‑unit package “doesn’t suit every single circuit.” He specifically cited Spa and Silverstone as examples where excessive reliance on battery regeneration and deployment dictated the race pace.
“What we saw at Silverstone and Spa, classic tracks where the power unit once again dominated but not for the right reasons, is not what we need,” Croft highlighted. “There was too much leanness with the energy, and fans didn’t experience the racing they deserved.”
Looking Ahead to 2027
In response, Formula 1 will tweak regulations for 2027, shifting the energy balance to a 60:40 split between internal combustion and electric power. Croft remains hopeful that these adjustments will restore the level of on‑track excitement the sport demands.
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