F1 2026 overhaul: Antonelli streak/Miami + regs; Russell DNF
Key Questions
What changes are planned for F1 in 2026?
The 2026 regulations drop the MGU-H, introduce energy limits and active aero, shifting drivers toward energy management roles. FIA has already cut Canada qualifying energy to 6.0 MJ.
How is the Mercedes driver rivalry between Russell and Antonelli developing?
Antonelli has extended his lead to 43 points with four straight wins. Mercedes held a meeting to manage the intra-team battle as Antonelli matches Russell on key tracks.
What caused George Russell's DNF and what is the investigation status?
Mercedes confirmed Russell's DNF resulted from catastrophic battery failure with heat damage. The investigation faces delays as hardware cannot be retrieved for months.
What joint request did Russell and Antonelli submit to Mercedes?
The drivers submitted a joint request for greater trust following a Canadian GP team meeting. This aims to address growing internal competition.
How have new rules affected driver strategies in recent races?
New energy rules have turned drivers into energy managers, with Verstappen facing issues and McLaren showing a surge. Russell has publicly questioned the need for these regulatory changes.
MGU-H drop/energy limits/active aero; FIA cuts Canada qualifying energy to 6.0 MJ; Antonelli/Mercedes front row Canada sprint; Verstappen issues; McLaren surge; new rules shift drivers to energy managers. Russell questions why F1 wants to change regs; Russell vs Antonelli intra-team battle intensifies as Antonelli matches Russell on tracks where Russell should have edge. Mercedes confirms Russell's DNF was catastrophic battery failure with heat damage; Antonelli extends lead to 43 points after fourth straight win. Mercedes held meeting to manage rivalry. Investigation into Russell's DNF delayed as Mercedes cannot retrieve hardware for months.