Formula 1 is set to introduce new regulations for the 2026 season, offering the biggest overhaul since introducing hybrid engines in 2014.
The chassis regulations are built around a new power unit concept which aims to increase the electrification element alongside the traditional combustion engine.
With that comes more complex versions of the current 1.6-litre V6 hybrid engines, which means the aerodynamics needed to be significantly revised to accommodate the drop in power.
Former engineer and strategist, Bernie Collins, is sceptical that a key area for the teams might be difficult to achieve given the nature of the regulations when speaking on the Sky Sports F1 podcast.
Bernie Collins warns F1 teams face challenge in key 2026 regulation
The main area of concern is with the active aerodynamics. The new cars will feature a movable aerodynamic platform that enables drivers to activate modes that slash downforce by 30 per-cent and drag reduction by 55 per-cent to achieve greater top speeds.
Although the cars will be narrower with a wheelbase reduced by 200mm, Collins has identified the main cause for concern with the switch to active aero.
“With all the extra mechanical complexity and the wings moving I personally, at this stage, fail to see the 30kg weight reduction being realised,” said Collins
“The car, without the engine and just the aero on the car, its a lot more moving parts than we have at the minute and that all adds weight.”
FIA explains how F1 2026 weight target can be achieved
With the cars being shorter and narrower, this should help the teams achieve further weight loss due to the reduction in mass. The wheels will also be narrower, enabling Pirelli to reduce the weight of the tyres by a couple of kilograms.
FIA single-seater director, Nikolas Tombazis, was tasked with shaping the regulations and has outlined the area relating to car safety that could allow for greater weight loss.
Speaking on the Beyond the Grid podcast, Tombazis outlined the replacement of the Zylon panels currently used in F1 since 2000 as a potential area that could reduce the overall weight.
The panels are a safety precaution to stop objects from penetrating the cockpit survival cell. Instead of bonding the panels into the chassis, the FIA plans to introduce an integrated panel which is tougher but also lighter.
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