Carlos Sainz: “We’re exaggerating a bit what we’re trying to do in 2026”

During the press conference of the Spanish Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz spoke about the upcoming challenges for Formula 1 with the new regulations planned for 2026. The Spanish driver explained that predicting who will be competitive in 2026 is almost impossible. “I used the term a bit like a lottery or a coin toss. Predicting who will be the fastest in 2026, given that the regulations are so different, that the cars are completely different, chassis, engine, it’s almost impossible to predict who will perform in 2026.”

He also emphasized the importance of the year 2025, which should not be forgotten in history… And while he still doesn’t know where he will be driving next year. « At this point, if I can’t predict 2026 and don’t know who will perform better, then it’s important for me to know about 2025. It’s also about trying to understand the powertrain group and team dynamics. All these factors come into play when making decisions. »

Regarding the physical implications of current cars and the potential impact of new regulations, Carlos Sainz responded thoughtfully: « The FIA and the teams seem very confident that the new regulations will improve the driving situation and the ride heights that we currently know with this current generation and the lower back pain and physical implications that it has for our bodies. We must trust them at this level, as it is a matter that has been raised and that concerned us in the long run. »

We try to play too much

He also addressed concerns about the future competitiveness of the teams: « I think it’s no secret that when you introduce a power unit as different as the one we’ll have in 2026, along with aerodynamics, tires, weight, and such a different car concept, it’s natural that the pack widens again. At the same time, they seem to have really tightened these regulations to ensure that no one does anything special. But we said something similar in 2022 and look what happened. »

But Ferrari’s Spaniard expressed some curiosity and reservation about the radical changes: “From what I’ve seen, it seems that we are exaggerating a bit what we are trying to do in 2026. Everything, regarding the power unit, the aero, we are trying to play too much with things and manipulate aerodynamic downforce here and there. 50% hybrid and combustion, I don’t know. That seems extreme, and I am curious to see what they will propose. But if it has managed to attract Audi as a manufacturer, to keep Honda, it’s also good for F1. So, let’s see.”