F1 team boss defends ‘immense’ 2026 racing despite driver discontent

Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane has defended Formula 1 ’s controversial new regulations – labelling some of the racing seen so far this season as “immense. ” New engine and chassis regulations this year, which see an almost 50/50 split between the internal combustion engine and electrical power, have divided opinion across the grid. Issues with the nature of how F1 goes racing have reared their head, as well as problems with qualifying.

Drivers are having to ‘lift-and-coast’ at the end of straights to harvest energy, while thrilling on-track battles have been labelled “artificial” by reigning world champion Lando Norris . Four-time world champion Max Verstappen has declared the new regulations “anti-racing” and “like Formula E on steroids. ” Yet Permane, who has been in F1 for over 35 years and has worked for teams such as Benetton, Renault and Alpine, believes some of the racing has been “exciting” yet acknowledged both the drivers and the audience need to be catered for going forward.

“It's not an easy one,” Permane said, in a media session on Tuesday. “We obviously have to listen to the drivers. I think there are two groups.

I think the die-hard fans are very upset about it. “But also the casual viewers actually find it very exciting. I have to admit, I think that some of the race battles have been immense.