As Formula 1 prepares for major technical changes in 2026, Aston Martin’s drivers have expressed serious doubts about whether the new cars will deliver the excitement fans expect. Fernando Alonso and his teammate Lance Stroll have signaled concerns that the upcoming generation of cars may struggle to provide the high-speed thrills characteristic of past seasons, raising questions amid the sport’s ongoing evolution.
New Regulations Promise Innovations but Raise Driver Worries
The 2026 regulations will introduce lighter monocoques, a novel 50-50 hybrid power unit, active aerodynamics, and narrower Pirelli tires, aiming to boost competition and racing dynamics. Despite these ambitions from the FIA and Formula 1’s leadership, Aston Martin’s drivers have reported early simulator results that highlight potential issues with grip and handling, especially on legendary fast circuits known for their demanding layouts.
Lance Stroll Voices Doubts About the Entertainment Value on Fast Tracks
Lance Stroll, after testing the new car model in Aston Martin’s simulator, shared his unease over the future racing spectacle on iconic circuits such as Spa and Suzuka. He warned that drivers might face reduced downforce and grip at these high-speed venues, which could dampen the intensity of the racing action.
For us drivers, I think these types of tracks, Spa, Suzuka—high-speed, less downforce—won’t be as thrilling as they are now,
Stroll said during a recent press briefing.
He further highlighted the expected deterioration in performance, cautioning that the cars could lose much of their current stability and grip.
We’re set to experience less performance than this year,
he added, reflecting growing worries about the cars’ capabilities to maintain excitement on the track.
Fernando Alonso Offers a Measured View After Simulator Testing
Fernando Alonso, the two-time World Champion, echoed some of Stroll’s concerns while maintaining a more cautious outlook. After a day of simulator work, Alonso acknowledged the expected loss of grip but hesitated to form definitive conclusions, noting the limitations of simulator testing versus actual race conditions.
I only did one day in the simulator, and it’s hard to draw conclusions from that,
Alonso explained.
He also admitted the natural resistance drivers feel toward slower performance but remained realistic about the challenges ahead.
Yes, there will be less performance than this year. Whenever a racing driver tests something slower, they’re never going to like it,
Alonso remarked with a light chuckle, while underscoring the seriousness of the upcoming shift.
Uncertain Future for F1 Racing Excitement Amid Regulatory Changes
The changes arriving in 2026 stand at a crossroads for Formula 1’s future, with the FIA striving to create a more level playing field and exhilarating contests. However, Aston Martin’s early feedback raises concerns that performance losses could undermine the very essence of the sport’s thrilling high-speed races.
As the sport approaches this significant transformation, fans, teams, and drivers alike await the real-world debut of the 2026 cars with apprehension. The coming months will be pivotal in determining whether Formula 1 can sustain its signature excitement while adapting to new technical demands, or if the sport will face a challenging period of adjustment as it attempts to evolve.