Drivers criticize 'heartbreaking' regulations as Suzuka reveals F1's slowdown issue.

      The 2026 regulations in Formula 1 are encountering increasing criticism as qualifying at Suzuka sharply revealed the sport's energy management issues. When asked if the FIA’s minor adjustment to qualifying energy usage had been beneficial, Carlos Sainz simply smiled and replied, "No."

      The problem became apparent during Kimi Antonelli’s pole lap, which Formula 1 attempted to highlight on social media, but viewers noticed that the onboard feed cut out before the renowned and high-speed 130R corner. The likely explanation was evident—cars were losing more than 50 kph through one of the fastest corners in motorsport as the necessity to harvest energy intensified. Formula 1 later attributed this to a technical issue.

      "Kimi’s onboard camera encountered technical difficulties midway through his lap, so we are unable to present the complete footage," a spokesman stated. However, the drivers’ responses were much more straightforward.

      Charles Leclerc erupted on the radio following his qualifying lap, stating, "I cannot stand these rules! It’s a f*cking joke." He elaborated on the core issue, explaining, "When you try to push harder in corners, you end up going slower on the straights and on the stopwatch," and added, "I know the FIA is trying to create a level playing field, but currently, it’s a significant disadvantage during qualifying."

      Frustration is now widespread among the drivers. "I just heard what Oliver Bearman said, and it's absolutely correct—you can be faster in every corner but still finish the lap slower," said Alexander Albon. Reigning champion Lando Norris described the situation as "heartbreaking," noting, "Compared to last year and the previous few, it’s heartbreaking to be at Suzuka and witness how much the speed has decreased."

      Fernando Alonso was even more forthright, stating, "The fun is over." He remarked, "The great challenges of the Suzuka race track have all vanished with these cars. I stand by the idea that the once magnificent high-speed corners of Formula 1 have now turned into charging zones for the car’s battery, which is quite regrettable."

      Amidst the criticism, the competitive landscape is becoming clearer, with Mercedes firmly in control and the rest struggling to catch up. "If I get a good start, perhaps I can apply a bit of pressure on the Mercedes drivers," Leclerc said. "But there will come a time when they pull away from us effortlessly. Their lead is simply too significant right now." Lewis Hamilton acknowledged that the gap is "huge," while Ferrari chief Frederic Vasseur is already looking toward the upcoming break for solutions, stating, "A new championship begins with the race weekend in Miami."