Power unit manufacturers reportedly crack key 2026 issue, Bird in awe of Verstappen
Rumors indicate F1 power unit makers may have solved a key 2026 performance issue. Separately, driver Sam Bird expressed being "in awe" of Max Verstappen's skill, calling him the fastest he's ever seen. Lewis Hamilton also supported his NFL team, the Denver Broncos, following a loss.
Power unit manufacturers may have solved a critical 2026 Formula 1 challenge, while a fellow driver expresses profound admiration for Max Verstappen's skill. Lewis Hamilton also took time away from the track to support his NFL team, the Denver Broncos, during a tough loss.
Why it matters:
The 2026 power unit regulations represent a massive technical reset for Formula 1, and overcoming early hurdles is crucial for competitive parity. Simultaneously, the immense respect Verstappen commands from his peers underscores his current dominance and the psychological edge he holds on the grid.
The details:
- 2026 Power Unit Progress: Rumors suggest Mercedes, Red Bull Ford Powertrains, and Audi have all found a solution to a key 2026 issue: a sudden loss of straight-line speed when harvested electrical energy depletes mid-lap. This breakthrough addresses a major performance concern for the new, more electrified power units.
- Peer Praise for Verstappen: Former Mercedes driver Sam Bird, speaking on the BBC's Chequered Flag podcast, expressed complete awe of the four-time champion. "I'm, as a driver, genuinely, completely in awe of his skill level. I don't think I've ever seen anybody this fast ever in Formula 1. He's so relentless. It's scary," Bird stated, highlighting Verstappen's near-miss 2025 title campaign.
- Hamilton's NFL Venture: Lewis Hamilton visited Denver to watch his NFL team, the Broncos, play at home for the first time since becoming a co-owner. The visit ended in a 34-20 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Post-game, Hamilton sent a supportive message to the team, emphasizing resilience: "Remember it's not how we fall, it's how we get back up!"
The big picture:
These stories paint a picture of Formula 1's continuous evolution and the multifaceted lives of its stars. The technical race for 2026 is already heating up behind the scenes, with manufacturers working to master a new formula. Meanwhile, the driver dynamic remains focused on Verstappen's benchmark-setting performance, even as veterans like Hamilton cultivate significant interests and investments beyond the cockpit.
What's next:
All eyes will be on how the 2026 power unit developments translate into on-track performance as testing nears. Verstappen will aim to convert peer respect into a fifth championship, while Hamilton balances his final years in F1 with his growing portfolio of external projects.