Drivers Say 2026 F1 Rules Still Test Skill

During the Bahrain pre‑season test, all four world champions said they were still pushing the cars to the limit of grip, even with the new hybrid engines and reduced downforce. They noted that energy management is now a factor, but the core of racing—braking late, cornering at maximum speed and exiting fast—remains unchanged. Drivers like Oliver Bearman added that some corners have become more power‑limited, altering approach but not eliminating the need for skill. The consensus is that a faster driver will still beat a slower one, proving the 2026 rules have not erased the essence of driver performance.