Carlos Sainz urges the FIA to impose the 2027 engine changes to prevent the interests of the teams from slowing down the evolution of F1.
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While the FIA and engine manufacturers continue their discussions on the future of Formula 1 power units, Carlos Sainz believes it is time for the governing body to take a firm stance.
For several weeks, the possibility of modifying the engine rules planned for 2027 has been the subject of intense negotiations. The goal would be to shift the power distribution between the internal combustion engine and the electric part towards a 60/40 ratio, compared to the current 50/50.
This change aims to reduce dependence on electric energy, an aspect widely criticized by several drivers since the introduction of the new generation of cars.
Ferrari and Audi slow down the project
Although the idea was accepted in principle several months ago, its final adoption is far from guaranteed. According to several reports, Ferrari and Audi are currently opposing this modification, while Honda, Mercedes HPP, and Red Bull Powertrains are in favor of its introduction.
This opposition greatly complicates the situation. To validate a regulatory change, a super-majority is required within the committee responsible for power units. Specifically, four of the five engine manufacturers must approve the measure, in addition to the FIA and Formula 1.
Under these conditions, the joint refusal of Audi and Ferrari is enough today to block the project.
Sainz calls for a more authoritative FIA
For Carlos Sainz, the FIA should not hesitate to impose changes it deems beneficial for the sport, even in the presence of significant opposition.
“It is the Commission where the teams have their say, and that is where I think the FIA and FOM must remain firm and continue in this direction” explained the Williams driver.
The Spaniard believes that if the governing bodies decide that a solution is best for the sport, the teams will eventually have to adapt.
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“If they say it has to be done this way, I am convinced that the teams who complain or are not fully aligned will really have no other choice but to accept it” he added.
A change deemed necessary for the future
The Williams driver considers that the current regulations still have several flaws and that the planned changes could significantly improve the spectacle and the races.
“If it is for the good of the sport, the good of competition and the spectacle, I am in favor of the leaders taking a very strong position” insisted Sainz.
The former Ferrari driver also believes there is still significant room for improvement in the regulations planned for next year.
“I think there is a real possibility to improve this engine and these rules with what is proposed for next year.”
Sainz prefers to look towards 2027
Aware that it will be difficult to deeply modify the current rules during the season, Sainz admits having accepted the situation for 2026.
“I decided to stop complaining because it is clear that this season is not ideal and it will never really be” the Spaniard acknowledged.
Despite this, he remains optimistic about the future: “I am very confident for next year and for the changes it can bring.”
The coming weeks could therefore be decisive in this major issue, as the FIA still tries to find a consensus on the technical future of Formula 1.
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