As the deadline for the publication of regulations for the next generation of Formula 1 cars approaches in June, discussions about the rules for the 2026 cars are becoming more frequent. Speculations and concerns have dominated the narrative around these rules, especially regarding the challenges of integrating the V6 turbo-hybrid engine formula with the chassis rules. Claims have been made about the need for drivers to downshift on straights to charge the batteries, complex active aerodynamics, and heavy cars. Red Bull has been the main critic of the rules, especially the almost equal division between electric power and internal combustion engine power. However, some of the complaints are based on outdated information or exaggerated issues that were never serious concerns.
The objectives of the 2026 engine aim to achieve significant cost reduction, competitiveness for new entrants, a powerful environmental message, and an emphasis on the show. These goals have generated division, as some see them as mutually exclusive. To meet these objectives, limitations on development and spending have been imposed on registered power unit manufacturers. Despite the division, the objectives have been successful in attracting new manufacturers to Formula 1. Audi, Honda, and Ford have committed to participating in 2026, and General Motors plans to build an F1 engine for 2028.
On the chassis side, the technical rules for the 2026 car have not been finalized yet, but the goal is to create more competitive cars with reduced drag. The cars will be shorter, narrower, and lighter, with an emphasis on sustainability and enhanced safety systems. The new engine for 2026 will have a nearly equal split between internal combustion engine and electric power, with an upgraded MGU-K and a new overtaking aid. The release of energy from the MGU-K will be carefully managed to avoid excessively high speeds on the straights. The FIA has introduced a manual override function to help the car behind close the gap to the car in front and facilitate overtaking in braking zones.
The active aerodynamics system in the 2026 cars will include a DRS element, reducing the rear wing and rebalancing the car by reducing front downforce in low drag mode. The system will be reserved for designated areas, likely on the straights. Contrary to initial claims, there will not be a “reverse DRS” to slow down the leading car. The active aerodynamics system aims to correct the frontward imbalance in low drag mode, which can make the cars extremely unstable.
Concerns about the impact of the 2026 engine rules on the car’s weight have been addressed by plans to reduce weight in other components, such as the chassis. The cars will be narrower and shorter, and the wheels will be narrower. These adjustments, along with changes in safety systems, should result in a reduction of about 40-50kg in the chassis weight. This offsets the weight increase due to the larger engine, resulting in an overall lower weight for the car.
The final meetings will be crucial in determining the first published version of the 2026 regulations, but additional adjustments are expected before the new era begins. There is concern about the quality of the races that the new rules will produce, especially in relation to overtaking. Unintended consequences are common with major rule changes, and teams cannot adequately simulate the effects until the final set of car rules is established. The FIA believes that the drag characteristics of the 2026 cars will still generate a decent slipstream effect, but specific details about the DRS assistance and override function will be established in the sporting regulations after the final chassis rules are set.
FOOTBALL: Brazil beats Argentina in the World Cup final
The Brazilian national football team won the World Cup title after defeating Argentina 2-1 in the thrilling final held at the Maracanã stadium. With goals from Neymar and Gabriel Jesus, Brazil secured the victory and lifted the trophy in front of a passionate crowd.
The game was marked by a lot of intensity and rivalry between the two teams. Just 10 minutes into the first half, Neymar opened the scoring for Brazil with a beautiful individual play. Argentina, on the other hand, did not back down and sought the equalizer with a goal from Lionel Messi at the 25th minute.
In the second half, Brazil maintained the pressure and scored the winning goal at the 60th minute with Gabriel Jesus, who received a precise pass from Coutinho and finished with class. Argentina tried to react, but ran into the solid Brazilian defense and could not tie the game.
With this victory, Brazil conquers the sixth world championship and consolidates itself as the greatest power in football. The Brazilian team demonstrated an engaging and efficient style of play throughout the entire competition, with Neymar standing out as the best player of the tournament.
The celebration of the Brazilian fans was intense and emotional. Thousands of people gathered on the streets to celebrate the victory and honor the talent of the players. Coach Tite was also highly praised for his work leading the team, managing to put together a competitive team with an engaging style of play.
Now, Brazil is preparing for the next edition of the World Cup, where they will aim to maintain their dominance in world football. The Brazilian team is already being considered one of the favorites for the title, and the expectation is that they will continue to dazzle fans with their offensive and attractive style of play.
Brazilian football is experiencing a moment of glory, and the World Cup victory only reinforces the greatness of this sport in the country. The Brazilian team is a true powerhouse and has everything to continue making history in the coming years. The Brazilian fans can celebrate, as Brazilian football is more alive than ever.
