Vasseur: F1 2026 Less Artificial Than DRS Era, But Not Pure Racing

Frederic Vasseur believes the 2026 Formula 1 regulations have delivered more open racing, though they still carry an artificial edge. In an interview with Auto Hebdo, the Ferrari team principal acknowledged that energy management has become a key skill, but also highlighted the degradation of legendary corners like Pouhon and Copse.

Vasseur sees clear progress compared to the DRS era. "I have mixed feelings. As a motorsport fan, the races are undoubtedly more open than before. You could say they are a bit artificial, but less so than when we had DRS. Back then, you just pressed a button. Now you have to manage energy and think about when to use it so you don't run out of battery for the rest of the lap," he said.

A prime example was the restart at Spa after a Safety Car. Some teams recovered energy before the line, while others tried to lose ground to have more energy at the restart. "Maybe it's not pure racing, but it still requires skill. For me, that's the positive side," Vasseur added.

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However, he also pointed out a negative: chassis development continues while engine push is reduced. As a result, fast corners like Pouhon at Spa or Copse at Silverstone no longer feel like real corners. "In the past, Radillon, Blanchimont, and Pouhon were corners. Now you go flat out until pit entry," he lamented.

Vasseur is optimistic the issue will be corrected in the coming years. "I think between 2027 and 2028 we will rebalance the thermal/electric ratio, while keeping the same maximum power," he concluded. His comments come amid the intense rivalry between Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, whose move in Hungary was highlighted as a season highlight.

Reported by FormulaPassion, Vasseur's views have sparked debate in the paddock. Analysts note that the 2026 regulations demand more complex energy strategy but also alter the essence of pushing a car to its physical limits.