F1 Drivers Push Back: FIA Eyes Rule Tweaks After Safety Concerns

Last Updated:April 20, 2026, 13:35 IST

F1 drivers raise safety concerns over new power units, pushing for rule tweaks ahead of FIA talks.

Formula 1’s sweeping technical overhaul has sparked much debate ovet the first three races.

And now, the drivers themseles are stepping in to shape what comes next.

Ahead of a crucial meeting with teams and stakeholders, the sport’s governing body (FIA) has acknowledged the role drivers are playing in refining the rules.

A Need For Change

With F1 transitioning to new-generation power units that split output roughly 50-50 between electric and combustion energy, concerns have grown over how these changes are impacting both racing quality and safety.

At the heart of the issue is energy deployment.

Drivers have flagged concerns about having to lift off the throttle early and coast into high-speed corners — a tactic required to recharge batteries under the new system.

Not only does this affect racing flow, but it also introduces unpredictable speed differentials between cars.

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem revealed that discussions with drivers have been “constructive and collaborative," with competitors offering “invaluable input" on potential adjustments.

“The drivers have provided invaluable input on adjustments which they feel should be made, particularly in the areas of energy management to ensure safe, fair and competitive racing," he said.

Safety Comes First

The drivers’ fears aren’t baseless or hypothetical.

A heavy crash involving Oliver Bearman at the Japanese Grand Prix last month highlighted the risks.

Bearman slammed into the barriers with a force of 50G after encountering a major speed difference with another car — a result of one vehicle deploying electrical power while the other struggled with low battery.

Incidents like this have intensified calls for tweaks, particularly around reducing closing speeds and ensuring more consistent performance across cars.

Alignment between drivers and FIA

Encouragingly for the sport, there appears to be rare unity between drivers and the governing body.

George Russell, a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, described the relationship as “probably the closest" it has been in years.

“There have been some very positive conversations with the FIA, and everybody is aligned with what we’re trying to achieve," Russell said.

He pointed to two key priorities: eliminating lift-and-coast in qualifying (allowing drivers to push flat-out) and reducing dangerous speed gaps on track.

What Next?

The upcoming meeting with teams will shape final proposals, which will then be put to a vote by the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council.

“Safety and the best interests of the sport are the main focus of these discussions," Ben Sulayem added.

(with Reuters inputs)

News sports formula-one F1 Drivers Push Back: FIA Eyes Rule Tweaks After Safety Concerns

Read More