Liam Lawson Sees 'Level Playing Field' Amid Massive 2026 F1 Overhaul
Driver Liam Lawson anticipates a "massive change" with F1's 2026 regulations, viewing the overhaul as a "level playing field" that will challenge all drivers with new energy management demands.
Liam Lawson is bracing for a "massive change" in Formula 1 with the 2026 regulation overhaul, which he believes will create a "level playing field" across the grid. The New Zealander anticipates the new cars, featuring a 50/50 combustion-electric power unit split, will be fundamentally different to drive, placing a greater emphasis on driver input and energy management. This shift could redefine driver influence in the sport.
Why it matters:
The 2026 reset represents one of the most significant technical overhauls in F1 history, potentially disrupting the current competitive order. For a driver like Lawson, who is still cementing his place on the grid, this universal reset presents a rare opportunity to compete on more equal footing with seasoned veterans. The increased importance of driver-managed energy deployment could also elevate the skill set required to succeed at the highest level.
The details:
- Lawson described the upcoming 2026 cars as "more different than anything we've driven before," highlighting the unprecedented nature of the regulation change.
- He views the overhaul as a "level playing field", arguing that since every driver must adapt to a new style of driving focused on energy management, experience with previous cars becomes less of an advantage.
- The new power units will feature a 50/50 split between electrical and combustion power, fundamentally altering how drivers deploy energy throughout a lap.
- Crucially, Lawson suggested the driver's role could expand, stating, "Potentially, the driver has quite a bit more input as well," which could allow skilled drivers to make a more significant difference in the car's performance.
What's next:
The true test will begin when teams and drivers get their first hands-on experience with the new machinery during pre-season testing. All eyes will be on how quickly drivers can adapt to the new energy management systems and whether the regulation change truly levels the competitive field. For Lawson, it's a critical chance to prove his adaptability and potentially establish himself as a frontrunner in a new era of Formula 1.