Mohammed Ben Sulayem responds to Christian Horner about the “F1 Frankenstein” of 2026
Mohammed Ben Sulayem is responding to Christian Horner's criticisms of the 2026 regulations. These regulations aim to move towards carbon neutrality and optimize the spectacle, but not everyone in the paddock is convinced yet. Max Verstappen and Horner in particular have taken a stance against it.
The 2026 regulations are causing debate in the Formula 1 stables. The engines will change with this future regulation. The MGU-H, the thermal energy recovery engines, will disappear and the engines will be 50% hybrid.
Red Bull is against this regulation. Max Verstappen has concerns about the upcoming regulation. The two-time world champion has reportedly tested engine simulations and claims that one would have to downshift in the middle of straight lines in order to be the fastest.
Christian Horner, director of the Red Bull team, even referred to the future racing cars as Frankenstein cars. The president of the FIA, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, responded to the Austrian team leader.
« At the end of the day, it’s his opinion. I respect what Christian says, but for me, what is most important is what is good for the majority of the teams and what is good for the sport as a whole. I spoke to him in Hungary, I always listen to the opinions of the stakeholders,” explained the president of the FIA to Motorsport-Total.
The leader of the International Automobile Federation explains that the objective of this engine change is for ecological purposes. Formula 1 aims to be carbon neutral by 2030.
« He didn’t seem to care much about the percentage distribution between electric motors and combustion engines. Whether it’s 60% / 40%, 45% / 55%, or 52% / 48%. Ultimately, what matters is why we are doing this, which is to reduce carbon emissions by 80%. »
To ensure a reduction in emissions, the FIA will work on a new engine regulation and [create lighter cars](/f1/actualite/31361-ben-sulayem-nous-voulons-voitures-plus-legeres.html).
« We might be a little too optimistic. But we are aiming for an 80% reduction, which should be achievable through lighter F1 cars, optimizations of the internal combustion engine, battery, aerodynamics, and fuel consumption reduction. All these elements add up to each other. If we slack in any one subdomain, we won’t reach the objective » affirms the Emirati at the helm of the International Automobile Federation.
