Sauber’s Valtteri Bottas.
While Valtteri Bottas mostly likes what he sees after the FIA revealed the overhauled regulations for 2026, he has his concerns when it comes to performance.
The FIA unveiled the highly anticipated F1 2026 regulations on the eve of the Canadian Grand Prix. These regulations bring significant changes as the FIA strives to implement its innovative ‘nimble car’ concept.
Valtteri Bottas has ‘overall performance and downforce’ question mark
In 2026, cars will undergo significant changes, becoming lighter, shorter, and narrower. They will shed 30 kilograms of weight and incorporate active aerodynamics. Additionally, a novel feature called ‘Manual Override Mode’ will replace DRS as the primary aid for overtaking.
In 2026, F1 will witness the debut of innovative power units that combine electrical power and internal combustion engines fueled entirely by sustainable sources.
It is an overhaul which Bottas looks upon positively, though he is wary of the “overall performance and downforce” having heard that grip levels will be significantly reduced compared to the current challengers.
He expressed his excitement for a new era of regulations, stating that it brings opportunities to various teams. Witnessing a change is always pleasant.
I appreciate the fact that the cars are slightly smaller, which is definitely a small but positive step in the right direction. Similarly, I believe that reducing the weight is a commendable decision.
“I have yet to test the new power unit settings in the simulator, so I don’t have much information on that. However, if it provides more overall power and allows for more flexibility in energy usage during race tactics, I believe that’s a positive development. At the moment, I don’t have any concerns or issues to report.”
My main concern is the overall performance and level of downforce. There have been rumors circulating about a significant decrease in grip, and I’m uncertain about the extent of this. It is something we will have to determine.
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During the presentation of the F1 2026 regulations, Jan Monchaux, the FIA’s single-seater technical director, affirmed the inclusion of “reduced downforce” in these new challengers. He elaborated on their strategy to foster a more competitive field and encourage increased overtaking opportunities.
He stated that about a year ago, a decision was made to opt for a nimble car, which is slightly smaller and has reduced downforce, but with a significant emphasis on minimizing drag.
The DRS on the rear wing will no longer be utilized to enable or support overtaking.
Every car will use it by default on every straight to minimize drag, bringing us numerous advantages in terms of energy consumption. Additionally, having a higher top speed enables better recovery while braking on subsequent straights.
The significance of overtaking in F1 and its relevance for future regulations cannot be overlooked. This issue will be addressed in two different approaches.
The initial point is to maintain an aerodynamic concept for the car, aiming to minimize the losses caused by a car that adversely affects the trailing car. This is crucial as being in close proximity to the leading car is essential for successful overtaking.
“If you find it difficult to navigate a corner due to excessive turbulence causing your car to lose stability and forcing you to retreat, it becomes essential to regain all the lost momentum once you’re back on a straight path.”
Number one, it is crucial for us to ensure that you can effectively trail another car during cornering scenarios. To achieve this, we must focus on the aerodynamic design and minimize the negative effects of turbulent air generated, ensuring it does not significantly hinder the following car’s performance.
As you approach the straight, there is a car in close proximity to another. In order to facilitate the overtaking maneuver, we will enable both cars to open their rear wings and front wing flaps. Additionally, we will grant the car behind the opportunity to utilize more ERS for a specific duration on that particular lap.
Currently, when using the DRS, once you are trailing a car by less than a second, a criterion is fulfilled that permits you to activate your DRS and utilize it on a straight track.
The situation will change, but the logic will remain unchanged.
When I am in close proximity to another car, I receive an additional energy boost for a single lap, granting me the freedom to utilize it as I see fit.
The surplus energy is determined, which will provide a surge of power to enable the upcoming car to successfully overtake by the end of the straight.
Nevertheless, Bottas does not perceive the competitiveness of the grid as a concern at the moment. He contends that the primary concern should be directing significant attention towards enhancing the overtaking potential of certain tracks.
He expressed, “In my opinion, the field is quite tight, and I find the races intriguing, so I don’t believe that is a problem.”
“I believe that overtaking on certain tracks can be quite challenging, but it is still crucial to prioritize this aspect. However, based on my observations, there could be a greater level of excitement and activity.”
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