Renowned Formula 1 expert, Adrian Newey, has shed light on what the future holds for the sport, predicting that the 2026 season may be dominated by engines. Drawing parallels with the engine-centric era of 2014, Newey anticipates a similar trend with the introduction of new technical regulations next year. As he prepares to take on a new role with the Aston Martin team in March, Newey believes that one of the engine manufacturers focusing on hybrid-oriented power units could potentially gain a significant advantage over their competitors, much like Mercedes did in 2014.
The upcoming cars for the 2026 season will feature power units that will eliminate complex MGU-H electrical motors, opting instead for a more robust MGU-K unit while utilizing sustainable fuels. Additionally, a new override system will give cars an extra boost when following another car, simulating the current DRS system.
In a recent interview with German publication Auto Motor und Sport, Newey expressed his insights on the upcoming changes, stating, “There has to be a big chance that it’s an engine formula at the start.” With both chassis and engine regulations undergoing simultaneous alterations, Newey highlighted the unique challenge this presents for teams. He emphasized the potential for one manufacturer to establish dominance in the power unit arena, setting the tone for a power-unit-driven regulation, at least initially.
Aston Martin, Newey’s future team, will partner with Honda for their engines, while sustainable fuels will be provided by Saudi oil company Aramco. Audi will enter the fray as a new power unit manufacturer following their acquisition of the Sauber team. Meanwhile, Red Bull is taking the reins in developing their engines in-house at the Red Bull Powertrains campus in Milton Keynes, alongside Ford.
With Renault exiting the power unit scene, their Alpine team will transition to using Mercedes engines. Additionally, Cadillac is poised to join the ranks as a sixth engine manufacturer, expanding the grid in 2026. Despite the publication of engine regulations, teams have only recently been given the green light to test their 2026 car designs in the wind tunnel, following the approval of technical regulations last year.
Looking ahead, Newey emphasized his focus on Aston Martin’s 2026 car as he familiarizes himself with the new regulations. Acknowledging the steep learning curve ahead, he stated, “My concentration will clearly be on ’26.” As he prepares to dive back into the world of Formula 1 after a brief hiatus, Newey anticipates an exciting season ahead, with engines poised to take center stage.
