Despite growing criticism, Mercedes and Ferrari refuse to overhaul the current rules, even at the risk of heightening tensions in the paddock.
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As debates intensify around the new 2026 technical rules, Mercedes and Ferrari seem determined to stay the course.
According to several sources, the two teams only support minor adjustments, particularly in qualifying, but exclude any major reform during the season. A position that is also explained by their current competitiveness, with Mercedes dominating the field while Ferrari establishes itself as its main rival.
Wolff defends the current spectacle
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff fully assumes this position and does not hesitate to defend the product offered by F1.
“No one can complain about the lack of spectacle in racing, whether you agree or not, he says. Only conservatives or those living in the past can dislike this new Formula 1″.
However, he acknowledges a weak point: “For me, the problem is not the race, but the qualifying. That is what we need to work on” he confides, mentioning planned discussions to improve this format.
Ferrari on the same page
On Ferrari’s side, the discourse is similar. Its director Frédéric Vasseur believes that the spectacle remains overall positive.
“Overall, it’s good for F1, for the championship and for everyone” he explains, notably highlighting the significant number of overtakes observed during the first three Grands Prix of the 2026 F1 calendar.
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According to him, the races remain attractive despite the criticism, which justifies a cautious approach rather than an immediate overhaul.
This position contrasts with the concerns expressed by many drivers and observers. Speed gaps related to energy management and driving difficulties continue to fuel the debate.
Former driver Christijan Albers is particularly critical: “Mercedes will say nothing with its current advantage. But one thing is certain, the FIA has failed to correctly implement these rules“ he asserts.
Other voices adopt a more nuanced tone. Pedro de la Rosa, now an Aston Martin ambassador, acknowledges the dilemma: “I understand the drivers. They want to push to the limit and are not having fun. But I also understand the point of view of the spectacle.”
A difficult balance to find
This deadlock could have significant consequences, as some drivers, including Max Verstappen, have already hinted that their future in F1 would depend on the evolution of the rules. Between the desire to preserve the spectacle, sporting interests, and driver expectations, Formula 1 finds itself facing a delicate choice.
For now, Mercedes and Ferrari are holding firm. But if the pressure continues to mount, this refusal to change could well become the heart of a deeper crisis in the months to come.
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