Charles Leclerc has tested car 2026 and doesn’t like it

As all teams begin to focus on 2026, the Monegasque driver recently worked in a simulator on his future car. On the eve of this eleventh event of the season, in Austria, he was asked about his first impressions and for now the feelings are not good.

« Let’s say it’s not the most pleasant racing car I’ve driven so far, but we are still in a period where the project is relatively new. I hope it will develop a lot over the next few months. But it’s no secret that I think next year’s regulations will probably be less enjoyable for drivers to drive. »

This is not the first time Leclerc has expressed mixed feelings about the new regulations. He is already expecting to drive a car he will not like. « So yes, I’m not a big fan of it at the moment, but that’s how it is. And at the end of the day, I think there’s a challenge to be met, and I would like to take on the challenge of maximizing a car that is very different from what it is now. But will I enjoy it? Probably not. »

He also finds it difficult to imagine what the races will look like with these new cars «. It’s just strange, I can’t yet imagine what the races will look like and how cool the overtakes will be next year with this new regulation ». He is not alone in viewing the arrival of these new-generation F1 cars with skepticism. Nevertheless, it is uncertain whether their concerns will be heard «. I know that people and teams, as well as the FIA, are aware of it, and there is probably work to be done on this matter. I don’t know how much it will change from now on ».

Also questioned on this topic in a press conference, Max Verstappen did not appear more enthusiastic. We’ll see when I have to sit in next year’s car. Even if I have reservations, it won’t change anything. So I’ll just sit in it and drive, and then we’ll understand it better and better over time.

Statements that may serve to put a little pressure on the authorities.