While several drivers strongly criticize the new Formula 1 engine regulations, Charles Leclerc admits to having a completely different view… to the point of feeling “apart” in the paddock.
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Since the introduction of the new engine rules for 2026, criticism has been mounting in the paddock. Several drivers denounce a Formula 1 that has become too artificial with the importance given to electric energy recovery and management phases.
Max Verstappen notably called the system “anti-racing” and compared some situations to “Formula E on steroids”. Other drivers even used the expression “Mario Kart” to describe the new energy boost effects.
In response to this outcry, the FIA has already begun adjusting some parameters starting from the Miami Grand Prix. The power related to “super clipping” was increased up to 350 kW while the recoverable energy in qualifying was reduced from 8 MJ to 7 MJ to make races more natural and limit excessive management phases.
But Charles Leclerc does not really share these criticisms.
“I am a bit of an outsider”
The Ferrari driver even acknowledges that he has a very different opinion from the majority of the grid on this sensitive issue.
“No, I have always been a bit at odds with that” Leclerc explained to the media.
The Monegasque believes that the new cars still offer interesting battles when drivers have similar energy management.
“I know I am a bit of an outsider in the paddock, but I find that the battles I had with the drivers ahead were really good when the cars use the system similarly.”
Unlike several of his rivals, Leclerc therefore does not consider that the new rules completely distort overtaking or the spectacle on track.
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A more strategic F1 according to Leclerc
The Ferrari driver acknowledges, however, that races have become more focused on energy strategy. But for him, this strategic dimension already existed before with the use of DRS.
“It’s maybe a bit more strategic than last year, but last season already was with DRS, the fact of wanting to get it or on the contrary trying to get out of its zone.”
According to Leclerc, the overall philosophy of races has therefore not radically changed despite the new engine regulations.
This position clearly contrasts with that of many drivers who were calling for quick FIA intervention to limit certain behaviors deemed unnatural on track.
Qualifying remains the real problem
Charles Leclerc however believes that one area remains more problematic than the races themselves: qualifying. Since the start of the season, several drivers have denounced sometimes strange flying laps, with significant slowing phases to maximize energy recovery before the straights.
The Monegasque acknowledges that this point indeed deserves particular attention from the authorities: “I think especially that the main issue is in qualifying, and it is normal that it is the priority.”
The FIA continues to closely monitor the effects of the new rules after the first adjustments introduced in Miami. Other changes could still be considered in the coming months if criticism persists within the paddock.
But one thing is certain: Charles Leclerc today seems to be among the few drivers ready to publicly defend this new generation of Formula 1.
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