Fernando Alonso attacks new F1 2026 regulations: “Batteries rule the championship”. Fernando Alonso joins Max Verstappen in criticizing the 2026 Formula 1 cars.

Fernando Alonso has backed Max Verstappen’s criticism of the 2026 Formula 1 cars and has strongly attacked the new technical regulations. The 2026 regulations continue to generate controversy across the paddock, and Alonso is the latest high-profile driver to voice his concerns.

At the center of the debate among drivers is the introduction of the hybrid power unit, which combines combustion and electric elements, requiring constant energy management. This system has fundamentally changed the way Formula 1 cars are driven. Max Verstappen described it bluntly as “a joke,” and the two-time world champion Fernando Alonso did not hold back his own pointed, sarcastic remarks.

In light of the challenges Aston Martin faced in China, where Lance Stroll was forced to retire, Alonso reflected on several critical aspects. He confirmed to the media after the race that the race starts are still enjoyable. “The starts are fun. As in Australia, the car seems to get off the line really well,” he explained. “On the first lap, we all have the same level of battery, fully charged.”

The problem arises later, when energy management becomes crucial. This is a pivotal factor for these new cars in terms of both performance and overtaking opportunities.

At one point during the race, Fernando Alonso was seen waving at Sergio Perez as his Aston Martin AMR26 was overtaken by the Cadillac of the Mexican on the main straight in Shanghai. The moment, which was not picked up by the international broadcast, was captured by Alonso’s onboard camera.

“Then we enter this so-called battery world championship, and we are not as good as the others,” Alonso remarked with his usual sarcasm. The reference was a clear jab at Aston Martin’s precarious energy management on track. Stroll retired after the tenth lap due to a suspected battery issue, while Alonso himself managed to complete 33 laps despite engine vibrations causing significant difficulties—something that Aston Martin drivers had already complained about.

Mike Krack, Aston Martin’s team principal, confirmed that there is constant work being done on the car. However, the issues will not be resolved quickly, as they do not concern only the power unit but the entire extreme design of Adrian Newey. Alonso’s critique highlights the ongoing struggle of teams to adapt to the demanding new regulations and the unique challenges of the 2026 Formula 1 season.