Mattia Binotto: Drivers are starting to enjoy F1's biggest 2026 rule changes

Audi Formula 1 chief Mattia Binotto thinks drivers are now starting to enjoy 2026's huge regulations changes and believes the new cars will be able to deliver a good show.

From next season onwards the series is moving to a new chassis and power unit formula, seen as one of the biggest regulation changes in history. The new regulations are placing a much bigger emphasis on electric energy, close to a 50-50 split with the internal combustion engine, which radically changes how the new cars are having to be run by the teams and driven by the drivers.

There has been early criticism from drivers, including Ferrari's Charles Leclerc, over how different and less enjoyable the new generation of cars is to drive.

But as virtual models continue getting more mature and representative, and teams are finding much more performance, Audi F1 chief Binotto reports his drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto are "starting to enjoy" the experience.

"It's the biggest change in 30 years at least," Binotto said as Audi, which is taking over Sauber, unveiled its 2026 visual identity and concept livery in Munich. "It's a big change. Honestly, I believe it's a great challenge. I think all technicians at the moment are enjoying a change of regulations.

"I think even drivers, initially, we may have heard some criticism. But overall, what I can see from drivers' comments, they are starting to enjoy, they are enjoying [the new cars]."

Audi F1 Team RS26 concept livery

Photo by: Audi Sport

Binotto also believes the new cars will deliver better racing. And if necessary, he backs the FIA to tweak sporting regulations, including parameters like hybrid deployment, to ensure the series delivers a compelling spectacle.

"I'm sure it will be, at the end, a good show," the former Ferrari team boss said. "The changes have been done so that first, we are relevant from the road car [side] with fully sustainable fuels. A challenge as well for fuel suppliers.

"But overall, the show will improve because we believe that the racing will be improved through the new regulations. So, we may need some patience at the start because big changes may bring discontinuity, may bring gaps between teams. But certainly, there will be a very quick catch-up from all the teams.

"And I'm expecting some rules may be adapted if required. That's part of the normal process. In every year, in every season, FIA has always adapted to needs. That may happen again. But overall, it will be a great regulation [set]."

Binotto's comments echo those made this summer by Williams chief James Vowles.

"The first time any of our simulator drivers drove the 2026 regulations it was difficult, because it is a complete change on certain aspects of how you drive," Vowles explained. "Then the second time it became more normal - still complaints. And by the fourth time, there really wasn't much in terms of discussion over it. It just became the norm."