Drivers criticize 'devastating' regulations as Suzuka reveals F1's deceleration.

      The 2026 regulations in Formula 1 are facing increasing criticism, as qualifying at Suzuka highlighted the sport's significant energy management challenges. When Carlos Sainz was asked if the FIA’s minor adjustment to energy usage in qualifying had made a difference, he simply smiled and replied, "No."

      This issue was brought to the forefront during Kimi Antonelli's pole lap, which Formula 1 attempted to highlight on social media. Viewers noticed that the onboard footage cut off before reaching the legendary and fast 130R corner. The likely reason was clear—cars were losing over 50kph in one of the fastest corners in motorsport due to the urgent need for energy recovery. Formula 1 later attributed this to a technical problem.

      "Kimi’s on-board camera had technical issues midway through his lap, so we cannot provide the complete footage," a spokesperson explained. However, the reactions from drivers were much more straightforward.

      Charles Leclerc voiced his frustration over the radio following his qualifying lap, stating, "I cannot stand these rules! It’s a f*cking joke." He elaborated on the core issue, saying, "When you push harder in the corners, it slows you down on the straights and on the clock. I recognize the FIA is trying to create a level playing field, but currently, it puts us at a significant disadvantage in qualifying."

      This frustration is echoed throughout the grid. Alexander Albon echoed this sentiment, noting, "I just heard what Oliver Bearman said, and it's completely accurate—you can be quicker through every corner yet end up with a slower lap time."

      Lando Norris, the reigning world champion, described the situation as "heartbreaking," adding, "Compared to last year and the few years before, it’s heartbreaking to be at Suzuka and witness the drop in speed." Fernando Alonso was even more candid, remarking, "The fun is over. The great challenges of the Suzuka circuit have all vanished with these cars. I maintain that the once magnificent high-speed corners of Formula 1 have now turned into energy charging zones for the car’s battery. It’s very disappointing."

      In the midst of the criticism, the competitive landscape is becoming clearer, with Mercedes in a strong position while others struggle to keep pace. "If I get a good start, maybe I can apply some pressure on the Mercedes drivers," Leclerc mentioned. "But at some point, they will pull away from us without any challenge. Their lead is simply too substantial right now." Lewis Hamilton agreed, acknowledging that the gap is "huge," while Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur is already looking ahead to the upcoming break for solutions. "A new championship begins with the race weekend in Miami," he said.