In a world where speed and technology intertwine, Lucas di Grassi, an emblematic figure in Formula E, does not hesitate to shake things up. According to him, the Formula 1 cars of 2026 are “extremely poorly designed,” suggesting a reversal of roles between the two disciplines. Get ready for a future where electric could well dominate the race.
A Scathing Critique of F1 Rules
As a leading driver in the Formula E championship, Lucas di Grassi does not mince words. He questions the logic behind the new regulations established for Formula 1 cars. With the introduction of revised power units, the MGU-K system has been boosted to represent nearly half of the car’s total power. But what about performance? This change has already sparked sharp criticism, notably from four-time world champion Max Verstappen, who dared to compare these new cars to “Formula E on steroids.” Quite a stinging remark!
Poorly Integrated Technology
Lucas di Grassi, drawing on his experience with Audi in LMP1, does not see the problem in incorporating electric technology, but rather in how the rules have been defined. “The hybrid rules of F1 are extremely poorly designed,” he stated to Motorsport.com. For him, it is not just the hybrid system that is at fault, but the decisions made by the FIA. “I don’t know the logic behind these rules, but they are very strange,” he added, emphasizing that these standards make the cars less performant and less competitive.
Formula E: A Promising Future
Di Grassi is not just criticizing; he also sees a golden opportunity for Formula E. The technical roadmap of this discipline could allow it to achieve performances surpassing those of F1. Indeed, the all-electric championship is set to introduce its Gen4 car, capable of developing 800 horsepower as early as next season. With constant advancements in battery technology, the Brazilian predicts that Formula E could become the fastest category in the world.
A Future Where Speed and Prestige Intersect
“My argument is that Formula E will have the fastest cars in the world in a few years,” he asserted confidently. The 2016-2017 champion even envisions a future where Formula E is seen as the pinnacle of motorsport. “What will happen when Formula E is much faster than F1? Will the best drivers in the world race in Formula E?” he questions. A perspective that could shake the foundations of F1.
An Uncertain Future for Formula 1?
Di Grassi imagines a scenario where F1 drivers might find themselves juggling between the two disciplines, with Formula E becoming a winter championship and F1 a summer championship. “Maybe they will have two programs,” he envisions. This mix could also lead to a redefinition of roles among drivers, with a different perception of their respective skills.
Worrying Feedback on Testing
When asked about the feedback he received regarding F1 drivers who tested the 2026 package, Di Grassi remains clear-headed: “Yes, I spoke to a few. The rules are very strange. On some circuits, it creates a lot of problems.” A statement that only adds to the concern surrounding the new cars and their potential on the track.
With voices like Lucas di Grassi’s, it seems that Formula E is ready to enter a new era. An era where electric performance could well overshadow the queen of motorsport. The coming months will be crucial to see if these predictions come to fruition.
