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Hamilton slams new F1 regulations as 'ridiculously complex'
Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton has voiced strong concerns about the sport's upcoming 2026 rule changes, calling them so intricate that fans will struggle to follow.
Energy management becomes central challenge
The new regulations introduce a near-equal split between internal combustion and electric power, forcing teams and drivers to carefully manage energy recovery throughout races. Hamilton described the system as requiring an advanced understanding, telling reporters after a pre-season test in Bahrain: "I sat in a meeting the other day, and it's like you need a degree to fully grasp it all."
Under the rules, engines operate in an energy-starved state for much of the race, demanding unconventional strategies. Drivers must now lift off the throttle before corners-a technique called "lift and coast"-or avoid full acceleration out of turns to conserve power. Hamilton noted that at Barcelona, drivers may need to coast for up to 600 meters during qualifying, a tactic he called "not what racing is about."
New recovery systems add layers of complexity
The regulations introduce four distinct energy recovery methods:
- Regenerative braking: Energy recaptured while slowing for corners.
- Part-throttle overload: Battery draws power from the engine in low-throttle scenarios, such as cornering.
- Lift and coast: Drivers ease off the throttle early to allow the electric motor to recharge.
- 'Superclip': Electronic controls divert energy to the battery even when the driver is at full throttle.
These systems are further complicated by an 'overtake boost' button, which provides temporary extra power but risks leaving drivers vulnerable on subsequent straights if energy reserves are depleted.
Driving techniques forced to adapt
Hamilton explained that the new rules require drivers to use lower gears than optimal to maximize energy recovery. "We're going down to second and first gear in some places just to recover that extra bit of power," he said. The Briton also highlighted that the high-revving engines in corners-where drivers aren't at full throttle-are a direct result of the need to recharge batteries.
While some strategies, like lift and coast, were already in use last season, the 2026 rules amplify their importance. Hamilton acknowledged that teams are still learning the nuances of the new cars, which won't race competitively until the season opener.
Rulemakers urged to avoid knee-jerk changes
Officials are expected to allow the regulations time to bed in before considering adjustments. Hamilton's criticisms come as teams begin adapting to the most significant technical overhaul in years.
Hamilton faces engineering shake-up at Ferrari
In addition to grappling with the new rules, Hamilton is adjusting to a change in his race engineer. Riccardo Adami, who worked with him last year, has been reassigned to Ferrari's driver development program. Hamilton described the split as "a very difficult decision," adding that he will work with a temporary engineer for the early races.
"It's a difficult period because it's not long-term," Hamilton said. "The solution I have now is only for a few races. Early in the season, it's going to switch again. I'll have to learn to work with someone new, which is detrimental when you want stability."
His new engineer, Carlo Santi, previously worked with Kimi Räikkönen during the Finn's second stint at Ferrari. A team spokesperson assured that Hamilton is "in good hands" and that Ferrari is actively searching for a permanent replacement, insisting he is "not at a disadvantage."
