Formula 1 Performance Concerns: Norris Fears 2026 Rule Changes Could Widen Grid Gaps
McLaren’s Lando Norris has voiced concerns that the planned 2026 Formula 1 rules revolution could lead to a significant gap between teams, moving away from the tightly contested competition witnessed in recent races. The top seven drivers in qualifying for the Canadian Grand Prix were separated by just 0.280 seconds, a testament to the current era of close racing.
According to Norris, the likelihood of the rule change blowing apart the grid is huge, and he fears that the sport may not see days like the current ones again.
“You’re not going to have days like today again. You’re not going to have days like the last few weeks probably in ’26, ’27, ’28, or pretty much like ’28, ’29.”
Norris attributes this to the historical trend of big gaps emerging after regulation changes, which then take time to close again.
Norris emphasized that Formula 1 needs to decide what kind of series it wants to be – one with stable regulations and close racing or one with shifting rules and a spread-out field. While the 2026 regulations may bring some benefits, they could also lead to worse racing.
“The type of racing you’re going to get is probably quite different. So, it’s complicated,” Norris noted.
The F1 team bosses met with FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali on Saturday to discuss the 2026 rules, which have been a topic of concern for teams regarding their impact on car performance. Tombazis reiterated that the FIA is open to making changes to the draft regulations to address these concerns.
Norris’s comments highlight the ongoing debate surrounding the Formula 1 rules and regulations, particularly the performance aspect. As the sport prepares for the significant changes coming in 2026, it remains to be seen how these alterations will affect the competitiveness of the grid. One thing is certain, however – the pursuit of closer racing and greater competition is at the forefront of the minds of drivers, teams, and the governing body alike.
🔗 Source