F1 cars 40 kph slower in Monza with new-fangled engines

The new 2026 powertrain regulations in Formula 1 have resulted in cars being significantly slower at Monza, with reports indicating a decrease of 40 kph compared to the previous season. Drivers, including Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso, have expressed concerns about the hybrid power's performance, predicting a challenging racing experience with potential 'yo-yo' racing dynamics. The FIA is also considering changes for the 2027 season, including a reduction in the hybrid power contribution and a decrease in the Grand Prix length to accommodate new regulations.

The practice sessions at Monza revealed troubling data, with track temperatures soaring above 50 degrees Celsius, complicating performance expectations. The FIA has adjusted qualifying rules to allow more energy charging, but there are fears that drivers may struggle to complete their final laps effectively. Overall, the new regulations are under scrutiny as teams and drivers adapt to the changes and their implications for racing at iconic circuits like Monza.