Massive loss of speed in corners draws initial criticism from drivers – Fernando Alonso explains why the new technology makes the driver less important
Fernando Alonso is known for his outspoken nature and clear analyses. When asked about the new generation of Formula 1 cars for 2026, which will feature a massive increase in the proportion of electric power in the powertrain, the Spaniard draws a curious comparison: even the Aston Martin team chef could drive the current car to its limits on the high-speed sections of the Bahrain circuit – at least to the limits set by the new energy management formula.
The background to the debate is the radically changed regulations for chassis and engines. Since electrical power now accounts for a much larger proportion of the total power output, energy management has become the all-important factor. The problem from the driver’s point of view is that in order not to be left behind like a “lame duck” on the long straights, the drivers have to ease off the gas considerably in the fast corners to recover energy. Alonso calculates: “Here in Bahrain, turn 12 has always been a huge challenge historically. The downforce level was chosen so that you could just get through there at full throttle. Driving skill was the decisive factor for the lap time.“
But those days will be over in 2026. ”Now we’re about 50 km/h slower in turn 12 because we don’t want to waste energy there. We need it on the straights,“ explains the two-time world champion. According to Alonso, the consequence is sobering: ”Instead of driving at 260 km/h, we drive through at 200 km/h. At this speed, anyone can steer the car—even our chef. But you don’t want to waste energy there.”
“Formula E on steroids”?
Alonso is thus singing from the same hymn sheet as Max Verstappen. The former world champion had already smugly described the 2026 cars as “Formula E on steroids” the day before. Alonso does not directly contradict his rival, but urges patience: “I understand Max’s comments. As a driver, you want to make the difference in the corner by being five km/h faster. But now the engine dictates how much energy you have left for the next straight.”
Nevertheless, the former champion tries to put the whole thing into perspective in his usual pragmatic way. Formula 1 has always been a series with a technical focus. “Two years ago, when Max won everything, it was downforce. He could drive through the corners at 280 km/h, while we could only manage 250 km/h because we lacked downforce. Now it’s energy.”
Longing for the “pure” adrenaline era
Despite his understanding of technological change, the record-breaking Formula 1 starter makes no secret of the fact that he mourns the loss of the toxic racing cars of his early days. Alonso, who made his debut in 2001, sees the golden era of driving in his rearview mirror.
“In terms of pure driving, the late 90s and early 2000s were unbeatable,” said the 2005 and 2006 champion. “In terms of adrenaline and pure skill, that was the benchmark. You just wanted to go fast into the corners and find the limit of the car.”
Today, racing is more like a strategic game of chess at high speed. But Alonso wouldn’t be Alonso if he didn’t still conjure up that fighting spirit: “At the end of the day, it’s Formula 1. We flip down our visors and race. Even in the rental kart here in Bahrain, we’re having a lot of fun. We still love the competition.“ Whether the ”Koch pace” in the corners will become the new normal in race trim is something the Spaniard only wants to assess after the first three or four Grands Prix.
