Wolff introduces 400kph assertion into the discussion on the 2026 regulations.

Wolff introduces 400kph assertion into the discussion on the 2026 regulations.

      "I don’t want to be positive or negative."

      Toto Wolff added an element of curiosity to the discussion about the 2026 regulations by proposing that Formula 1's next-generation cars might reach an astonishing 400 kph. The Mercedes team principal acknowledged during the Zandvoort event that his comment was partly made in jest, as doubts grow regarding the new power unit regulations and aerodynamics. "Sounds good, doesn't it?" Wolff grinned. "Everyone's downplaying those engines, so I thought I'd see if there’s anything to be optimistic about. And the potential is there: if you utilize all the energy on a long straight, these cars could hit 400 kilometers an hour. But there wouldn’t be much electric energy left for the remaining corners of the circuit."

      The FIA is continually refining the 2026 rules in response to issues raised in team simulators, which range from drivers having to ease off during straights to recharge batteries to experiencing slower lap times and needing movable wings to manage drag and downforce. Many drivers have expressed concerns about their early simulator experiences. Max Verstappen, who is often seen as outspoken, is trying to be more measured in his remarks. "I don’t want to be positive or negative,” the Dutch driver stated. “I tried it in the sim last week, but there are so many variables that it doesn't provide clear insights. The FIA has already made it clear they won’t allow that (400 kph) in any case."

      Charles Leclerc took a more cautious stance: "It’s going to be unusual how we reach these speeds. However, each time I simulate, the concept changes significantly. In the end, it might feel more normal than I initially thought." Esteban Ocon expressed his apprehension: "380 to 400 is quite intimidating. I won’t form an opinion until I’ve actually driven the car in the simulator." Pierre Gasly from Alpine was more skeptical: "I don’t buy into stories, only what I see. We could achieve 400 if we removed the first chicane at Monza and altered the gearbox. But we will see. If my car can go 400, I’d be thrilled!"

      Meanwhile, Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur emphasized that serious preparations are underway for the new era. "We’re making significant efforts to determine what we can adapt for 2026,” he told Auto Motor und Sport. “This includes suspensions and the braking system. It’s only in aerodynamics where we can’t transfer anything. Changes in load might occur when shifting between engine modes. It’s no coincidence that teams have invested in their suspensions this year, including McLaren, Mercedes, and ourselves. Everything we learn can provide a competitive edge."

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Wolff introduces 400kph assertion into the discussion on the 2026 regulations.

Formula 1 | Toto Wolff stirred interest in the 2026 regulations discussion by proposing that the new-generation cars in Formula 1 might reach an astonishing speed of 400 kph. The (…)