Ferrari's Fred Vasseur stated that the 2026 F1 regulations are 'less artificial' than the current DRS system. The new rules focus on chassis and engine changes, emphasizing battery management and introducing a new racing style called 'yo-yo'.
Key points
Fred Vasseur claims 2026 F1 rules are 'less artificial' than DRS
New regulations focus on chassis and engine changes
Increased reliance on electric power impacts racing dynamics
Battery management plays a key role in grands prix
New racing style called 'yo-yo' emerges from power level variations
Mentioned in this story
Ferrari
Formula 1
Motorsport photo
Motorsport photo
Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur claimed that the 2026 Formula 1 regulations are âless artificialâ than DRS amid widespread criticism of the new ruleset.
This year, F1 is debuting its latest regulation overhaul with changes to both the chassis and engine, the latter being a contentious point due to its increased reliance on electric power.
The change has given a key role to battery management during grands prix and, due to varying power levels throughout the grid, it has caused a new style of racing called âyo-yoâ.
Traditionally, when a driver has made an overtake it would mark the end of the battle, but now the wheel-to-wheel fights often continue with cars regaining position shortly after losing out.
The result has seen 2026 witness significantly more overtakes - the Australian GP had 120 passes compared to 45 last year - but to some, this isnât a good thing. The rules' naysayers claim that moves have become artificial and wheel-to-wheel battles have ultimately been devalued.
But Vasseur doesnât agree with this, particularly when DRS was used from 2011 to 2025, where an attacking driver could open their rear wing when within one second of the car in front.
Frederic Vasseur, Ferrari
Q&A
What are the main changes in the 2026 Formula 1 regulations?
The 2026 regulations include significant changes to both the chassis and engine, with a greater emphasis on electric power and battery management.
How does the new 'yo-yo' racing style affect Formula 1?
'Yo-yo' racing style arises from varying power levels across the grid, impacting how drivers manage their speed and strategy during races.
Why did Fred Vasseur criticize the DRS system?
Fred Vasseur criticized the DRS system as being 'artificial' compared to the new regulations, which he believes promote more natural racing dynamics.
What is the significance of electric power in the 2026 F1 rules?
The increased reliance on electric power in the 2026 rules is significant as it alters race strategies and introduces new challenges in battery management during races.
Related Articles
Sports
'Club is reborn' - Wednesday takeover completed and points deduction overturned
Sheffield Wednesday's future secured as David Storch completes takeover and points deduction is waived.
Sky Sports··1 min read
Sports·Feature
'A man who inspired millions in the face of unbelievable adversity'
Alex Zanardi, a two-time Indycar champion and four-time Paralympic gold medallist, has died at 59 after a tragic accident. He inspired millions with his resilience and positive outlook despite facing severe adversity.
BBC Sport··1 min read
NFL
The P/PTSD Perspective: Perfect Player, Stealing a Do-It-All Talent, and KOCâs Ace Up Sleeve
Vikings make key roster additions and coaching changes for 2026 season.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Sports
40 days to the World Cup: Ivory Coast returns 12 years after heartbreaking loss
Ivory Coast is back at the World Cup after a 12-year absence!
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Golf
Popular Tacoma golf course renamed, reopened after $7.5 million renovation
Cedar Irons Golf Club in Tacoma reopens after a $7.5 million renovation, featuring a modern layout for all golfers.
Yahoo Sports··1 min read
Sports·Preview
Final Ranking of All 20 Kentucky Derby Horses & Best Bets to Win, Place & Show on Saturday
Check out the rankings and best bets for the 2026 Kentucky Derby!
See every story in Sports â including breaking news and analysis.
Frederic Vasseur, Ferrari
Frederic Vasseur, Ferrari
The Ferrari boss said at this weekendâs Miami Grand Prix: âHonestly, we had good races, a lot of overtakings. You can say that perhaps you have the feeling that itâs a bit artificial, but for me itâs much less artificial than the DRS.
âDRS was just to push on the button. Today, itâs energy management and itâs coming from the drivers or from the team. Itâs not artificial at all and I would say that for sure we have to fine-tune, we have to adapt.
âThanks to the FIA we had the capacity to discuss after each event to try to improve the system. Once again, itâs not easy to do it during the season but we are, I think, all collaborative with this.
âRegarding the future, we have different options on the table. I think it will be soon time to discuss the different options, but from the beginning we have one parameter in mind, itâs also to reduce the crazy budget of the engine.
âThis is for the PU manufacturers but also for customers and for the benefit of F1. I think that now we can discuss all the opportunities and weâll have time to do it soon.â
Vasseurâs thoughts were echoed by Audi boss Mattia Binotto in Miami - round four of the season - where the FIA will debut tweaks to the new rules following feedback from teams and drivers.
Binotto said: âOur drivers are enjoying the current format and I think it has been a big change to the past. Everyone needs to adapt to the changes but overall, if you look and watch the races, for the fans it has been a great show.
âOvertaking since the very first race, close fights, which is not obvious when youâve got such a big discrepancy in the regulations. So I think the format is a great format and F1 remains a platform for innovation.
âSo what will be the future? I think itâs too early to say, certainly we have started discussing it with the FIA. We will, I think, sit down, discuss what's best for F1.
âBut I will not be so negative on the current format. Overall, I think itâs a good format. If you look in the past, I think there have been eras where Formula 1 was more boring. So overall, I donât think we should be so negative.â
