The point of view of the 2016 world champion is interesting because he takes a much more pragmatic reading of the current situation in
Formula 1.
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Unlike some drivers or very critical observers, he does not deny the flaws of the 2026 rules, but he considers that they are not decisive as long as the on-track show remains on point.
You can’t stop progress
Rosberg clearly acknowledges the limits of the current system, notably this very intrusive energy management that changes the behavior of the cars. The “yo-yo” phenomenon — where a driver overtakes but is immediately caught due to lack of energy — or the obligation to lift off on the straight when the battery runs out, go against the traditional image of an F1 pushed at 100% all the time. From a purist standpoint, it is a clear break.
But at the same time, he highlights a central element: technological coherence. The current power units, with a roughly 50% thermal/50% electric split and the use of CO₂-neutral synthetic fuels, represent the most advanced in terms of energy efficiency. In other words, F1 remains aligned with its historical role as a technological laboratory, even if this requires compromises on the “raw” spectacle.
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It’s a show!
Where his analysis becomes more strategic is on the perception of the fans. For him, acceptance of the rules will depend much less on technical details than on the quality of the battles on track. As long as close duels exist — whether within a team or between several top teams like
Mercedes,
Ferrari or
McLaren — the public will eventually come around.
This is a key point: historically, the most criticized periods in F1 are not those with the most complex regulations, but those with the least competition. Rosberg implicitly points this out by mentioning the possibility for Ferrari or McLaren to return to Mercedes’ level. If the hierarchy tightens, the flaws of the energy system will become secondary in the overall spectator experience.
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