Drivers Say 2026 F1 Rules Still Demand Skill

During a pre‑season interview, Verstappen, Hamilton, Alonso and Lando Norris said the new 2026 regulations – especially the emphasis on energy management – do not make Formula 1 “not a pure driving sport.” They stressed that drivers still push the cars to the limit of grip, even with lower downforce and hybrid power units.

At the Bahrain test, all four champions confirmed they were still driving at the edge of traction most of the time. While some corners became more power‑limited, the core skill of braking late, cornering fast and exiting at top speed remained essential, proving that driver talent still decides race outcomes.