Hadjar expresses approval of the FIA's decision to back down from the 2026 engine regulations.
"Based on their agreement, it can only improve from here."
Isack Hadjar believes that Formula 1 is finally "moving in the right direction" now that the FIA and manufacturers have tentatively agreed to relax the contentious 2026 engine regulations. Following a significant rules meeting on Friday that included the FIA, FOM, team principals, and all five power unit manufacturers, the governing body announced plans for further "evolutionary changes" starting in 2027.
The FIA noted that the adjustments implemented in Miami earlier this month had already "resulted in better competition" and diminished excessive energy harvesting. Additional changes are currently being assessed, but the most significant outcome was the principle agreement for a major rebalancing between combustion and electric power from 2027 onward.
Under the new proposal, the output of the internal combustion engine would increase by roughly 50kW, along with a rise in fuel flow, while electric deployment would decrease by about 50kW. Hadjar expressed his support for this positive trajectory during an interview with AFP at the Grand Prix De France Historique at Paul Ricard.
"It’s moving in the right direction because nobody likes the initial setup for 2026," he commented, referencing the current equal split between combustion and electric power. "It’s evident that we need to seek solutions to enhance the situation, not worsen it."
"For next year, with what they have agreed upon, it can only improve." The 21-year-old Frenchman also showcased a Vettel-era Red Bull V8 car at the event, clearly expressing his preferences. "That’s how I envision driving," Hadjar said with a smile. "Whether it’s electric or loud, what matters is reaching my top speed before braking; that’s what racing is about."
He characterized the old V8 cars as "a completely different experience." "The car is lightweight, with significantly less downforce," Hadjar stated. "It brakes incredibly hard, and the sound is fantastic." Despite Red Bull’s challenging start to the new era, Hadjar remains hopeful about the team's future competitiveness. "By the end of the year, we’ll have a car that has improved significantly," he predicted. "And next year, we’ll kick off the season with a car capable of winning races. I’ll definitely be there."
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