FIA denies new F1 rules too complex for fans

In brief

New F1 rules not too complicated – FIA

After Aston Martin team principal Mike Krack expressed concerns the planned 2026 rules would cause confusion among fans, the FIA’s single seater director Nikolas Tombazis defended the planned changes, including new active aerodynamics modes and an override facility to aid passing.

“In reality the X-mode and the Z-mode are really parts of the normal running of the car,” said Tombazis.

“The elements to assist getting close to the front car, the equivalent of the current DRS, will be handled by the electrical power. I think it’s a smidgen more complicated than what we have now.

“I don’t think it is rocket science, and clearly we will need to explain it adequately to everybody so people understand what they’re saying. But I don’t think it is really that complicated.”

Buemi unimpressed by “artificial” competition

Sebastien Buemi described the competition at this year’s Le Mans 24 Hours as “artificial”. Speaking while the race was going on the Toyota driver admitted he had doubts over how many manufacturers were in contention for victory.

“Sometimes I have the feeling it’s a bit artificial,” said Buemi, “but I guess people like that.”

The series’ Balance of Performance system is intended to bring the field closer together on performance. Several Safety Car periods also reduced the separation of cars across the field, and contributed to the top nine finishers completing the same number of laps.

“For us drivers, having those slow zones and Safety Cars putting us back all the time, it’s a bit difficult, but that’s the way the race is now and we need to to make the most out of it,” Buemi added.