12 February 2026PlanetF1Race reportDriver Ratings
Mansell warns FIA: 50/50 power split could spark racing chaos
Nigel Mansell cautions the FIA that the new 50% electric, 50% combustion power units could force drivers to lift‑and‑coast to save battery, turning sprint races into stop‑start affairs in Australia.
The 2026 Formula 1 power unit will split output evenly between an electric motor and a conventional engine. Mansell warns the FIA must keep the 50/50 split from forcing drivers to lift‑and‑coast, turning sprint races into stop‑start affairs in Australia.
Why it matters:
- Battery management becomes a race‑craft priority; too much conservation could sap excitement.
- Fans want flat‑out action; frequent lift‑and‑coast would dull the show.
The details:
- Hybrid units cap electric and combustion output at 50 % each, with a 2 MJ battery per lap.
- Boost can be used any time; overtake mode only activates within one second of the car ahead in a designated zone.
- Lando Norris (McLaren) says battery management is the biggest challenge and expects more “yo‑yoing” and defensive moves.
- George Russell (Mercedes) stresses mastering tiny techniques to harvest a few extra percent of energy.
- Mansell warns the FIA must stop drivers from being forced to slow dramatically to recharge, likening it to EVs pulling over.
What's next:
- The FIA is expected to issue guidance on minimum lap‑time standards to curb deliberate slow‑downs.
- Teams will fine‑tune software in pre‑season testing at Bahrain and Melbourne, shaping boost and over‑take strategies for the season.