Red Bull F1 boss Christian Horner DEFIANT on 2026 regulations amid criticism

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has backed the FIA ​​in the face of criticism over the recently unveiled 2026 regulations.

In early June, Formula 1’s governing body revealed more details about upcoming changes aimed at producing lighter and smaller cars as well as moving towards a more sustainable future.

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Among other things, the DRS system will be removed for the first time since its inception in 2011, and a push-to-pass electricity boost will be introduced instead.

The engine power will increase by almost 300%, and they will also be powered by 100% fuel from renewable sources.

However, these plans raised some doubts.

What are the concerns about the 2026 F1 regulations?

While the FIA ​​wants to bring back a more sustainable era of better racing, teams, experts and drivers have been quick to point out the potential downsides.

Sky Sports pundit and former F1 driver Martin Brundle highlighted the safety issue, writing: “Personally I would be concerned about the significantly moving front and rear wings if they failed to return to the correct position in a very fast corner due to debris, damage or malfunction ”

World champion in 1997 Jacques VilleneuveMeanwhile, questioned the enforceability of the new engine rules.

Horner, however, supported the FIA ​​to properly implement the new regulations, suggesting that concerns he expressed in 2023 has been relaxed.

The Red Bull boss was asked about comments made by FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis in response to criticism that there was potential to change engine balance to increase performance.

“There’s always someone who doesn’t want to change anything,” he told the media at the Canadian Grand Prix. “Listen, it’s up to the FIA. It’s never too late – they have all the knowledge and all the simulations.

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“The absolute only thing we have is time. I think the FIA ​​has been very open to listening to feedback, accepting comments… but I’m not too worried about it.”

Horner’s Red Bull complied with the latest set of new regulations in 2022, ushering in an era of dominance for the three-time world champion Max Verstappen.

“I think ultimately you have to look at what is best for Formula 1 and what will deliver the best racing, so trust them (FIA) and FOM (Formula 1 Management Board) to make the right decisions,” Horner added.

“But whether it’s required or not, I think they have all the knowledge they need.”

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