Concerns about unappealing car designs for 2026 models
"I always appreciate the distinctions among the teams."
As Formula 1 prepares for its most significant regulatory overhaul in history, concerns are rising about whether the new cars will display diversity or ultimately resemble one another closely. The 2026 season will not only introduce new engine regulations but will also completely overhaul aerodynamics, reminiscent of the 2022 season, which marked the onset of the current ground effect era.
During that time, Ferrari’s 'bathtub' sidepods, Red Bull’s elevated radiator covers, and Mercedes’ innovative zero-pods created a visibly varied grid. "For technology aficionados, it was a golden age," remarked Auto Motor und Sport. However, after four years of consistent regulations, design concepts have progressively aligned. "If you examine the level of detail in this area today and compare it to 2022, it’s entirely different," stated Mercedes’ Andrew Shovlin.
He cautioned that "certain aspects will appear similar across the board, primarily because the regulations impose limited flexibility," but he indicated that the most significant variety is likely to be observed during the initial car unveilings – prior to the onset of copying. Adrian Newey, who is currently working on Aston Martin’s 2026 vehicle, is also optimistic about a recurrence of the diversity seen in 2022. "I always appreciate the distinctions among the teams," he noted. "It’s tedious when all cars look alike and can only be distinguished by their livery.
"I believe there’s a strong likelihood that we'll see something akin to 2026. The regulations offer sufficient flexibility, and I’m confident that each team will devise different solutions."
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