Adrian Newey Wary Of 2026 Engine Regulations

Formula 1’s upcoming sweeping rule changes for 2026 have been questioned by Adrian Newey, who believes they may slow down the cars excessively.

The warning comes after Honda’s recent announcement of their full-fledged return to the sport in collaboration with Aston Martin for 2026. The Japanese carmaker cited the FIA’s vision for new rules as a crucial factor in their decision to return to the sport.

“In pursuit of its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, F1 will implement new regulations with an engine-electric motor maximum power output ratio of 50-50,” Honda said.

This will represent a significant increase in the deployment of electrical power compared to the current ratio, while use of a 100 percent sustainable fuel is also required.

When asked about the 2026 rules this week, Red Bull’s famous technical guru Newey said F1 obviously requires regulations otherwise the cars would be “ridiculous, like simple rockets”.

However, he warned that the 2026 rules might be going too far.

“The regulations are important, otherwise the safety of this sport would become a very serious concern,” he is quoted by Corriere dello Sport.

“But the changes presented for 2026, with the objectives set by the FIA addressing important issues such as environmental sustainability, pose a threat to the sheer speed and performance that the cars currently exhibit.”