Pierre Gasly has outlined the extreme challenge of driving the new-generation 2026 Formula 1 cars in wet conditions ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, with early experience at Alpine highlighting the lack of grip under the revised regulations.
Weather forecasts for Miami indicate a high probability of heavy rain and thunderstorms, while most teams have yet to run the current cars in fully representative wet race conditions. This leaves key technical variables—such as tyre behaviour, torque delivery, and traction control—largely unvalidated under the latest FIA framework.
Gasly referenced an early test at Silverstone where tyre temperatures were significantly low, directly affecting traction even in higher gears. The experience exposed how the 2026 power units and energy deployment can generate substantial wheelspin, particularly through high-speed directional changes such as Maggots and Becketts.
From a technical perspective, maintaining rear-end stability under acceleration and ensuring consistent energy delivery are key challenges in low-grip conditions. These factors are compounded by the limited real-world data available, forcing teams like Alpine to rely heavily on simulation and non-competitive running.
"The good thing is that I drove in mid-January at Silverstone with around 30 degrees of tyre temperature, and I was wheel-spinning in sixth gear after Maggots and Becketts."
"It felt like needing an underwear change every lap. It was the most extreme condition I have ever driven in, so after that I feel prepared for anything."
"That does not mean it won’t be challenging if it’s wet. I know what to expect and how to maximise the situation, and I believe I am quite strong in these conditions."
With a potential wet race in Miami, driver adaptability and execution will be decisive factors. Gasly’s experience suggests the 2026 cars are significantly more sensitive to track conditions, setting up a highly variable competitive landscape heading into the next phase of the season.
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