The comparison with Formula E
The description offered by Max Verstappen during pre-season testing — calling the new cars “Formula E with steroids” — already hinted that the start of the 2026 Formula 1 season would be marked by intense debate over the sweeping changes introduced by the new hybrid power units. Compared to the previous generation, these units feature an almost equal split between the internal combustion engine and the electric component.
However, the emergence of phenomena such as super-clipping, the increased use of lift and coast even in qualifying sessions, the difficulties faced by several teams during race starts, and the frightening crash at Suzuka involving Ollie Bearman have all accelerated and intensified the discussion surrounding the current F1 technical regulations.
Buemi’s analysis
From within the Formula E paddock came a notably pragmatic perspective from Sébastien Buemi, who is currently racing with Envision Racing and remains closely connected to Formula 1 — particularly to the Red Bull structure, for which he has continued to work as a simulator driver for many years after his time as a full-time Toro Rosso driver in the championship.
Sébastien Buemi shared his thoughts in an interview with the Spanish outlet AS, addressing the new direction Formula 1 has taken with its 2026 regulations.
The Swiss driver’s assessment was clear and balanced: “The new regulations? Some people like them. If you’re one of the Mercedes drivers, you love them; if you’re one of the others, you don’t. But we need to wait a bit — it’s difficult to draw conclusions with so few races,” observed the multiple-time WEC world champion. “I understand the criticism, but it’s still too early to make definitive judgments. The races are interesting, not everything is perfect yet, but we have to wait and see how things develop.”
He also drew a comparison with the future of Formula E: “In Formula E, we are really looking forward to the Gen4 cars, because they will represent a significant step forward for the championship. But we don’t want people to be disappointed with Formula 1. I hope that both championships will be successful,” he concluded.
Sébastien Buemi’s assessment highlights the stark divide currently splitting the grid: those who have mastered the complex energy deployment of the 2026 units and those left grappling with “clipping” on the straights. While the early advantage clearly sits with the Silver Arrows, the rapid evolution of software mapping suggests the hierarchy could shift significantly as teams better understand the delicate balance between the battery and the internal combustion engine.
Leave a Reply