Formula 1 2026 cars have sparked concerns over speed differentials that could pose serious danger for drivers.
Engine Power Disparity
After Oliver Bearman’s catastrophic loss of control at the Japanese Grand Prix, the gap between engine power‑deployed cars became a focal point.
Bearman’s collision – triggered by an avoidance move against slower Franco Colapinto – highlighted the 47 % electrical energy contribution that now amplifies disparities between cars.
Mercedes and Red Bull can deploy power in places that make others spin out of control, Perez warned, calling the current speed mismatch “too dangerous.”
Regulatory Response
The FIA tweaked engine rules at the April break to curb lift‑and‑coast tactics and reduce rapid swings in power output.
Yet Sergio Perez remains uneasy. “I was going to have a massive shunt with Liam Lawson when I defended him because the difference in deployment and power across engines is too dangerous,” he told reporters after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
“If we don’t change the regulations soon, something bad is going to happen,” Perez added, underscoring the urgent need for tighter energy‑management oversight.
FIA’s 2027 plan will see the electrical share drop to 42 %, a move expected to narrow the power gap further.
When cautioned that Sepang’s fast corners might be compromised by the 2026 power layout, Perez replied that the team “better don’t talk about it,” indicating limited enthusiasm for the upcoming Bahrain and Malaysia races.
With FIA pushing to tighten regulations and a drop in electrical energy set for 2027, the sport may finally bring the 2026 cars’ power disparity under an acceptable safety margin.
"