‘Give it time’: Russell defends F1’s 2026 cars amid early backlash

Mercedes driver George Russell has called for a measured approach to judging Formula 1’s new generation of cars, insisting it is too early to slam the ambitious 2026 regulations despite some high-profile criticism.

The first three-day test in Bahrain gave drivers their first real taste of the lighter, more nimble cars, which now derive half of their power from hybrid energy systems.

While innovations such as energy harvesting in corners, coasting on straights, and careful turbo management have drawn scrutiny, Russell believes the cars’ full potential has yet to be unlocked.

A Step Forward, But a Steep Learning Curve

“I do think it's a step forward and I always like to give things a chance,” Russell said.

“We're four days into a set of regulations that's going to be over three years long and the progress everyone's going to make in these early months is going to be massive.

"The cars are way nicer to drive. I've only ever driven the smaller generation of F1 cars twice and I couldn't believe the difference of how much more agile the car feels being lighter, smaller. So, that's very positive."

Russell praised the engineering challenge behind the new engines, noting that while they are complicated, they are likely causing more headaches for engineers than drivers.

He also cautioned that early tests at Bahrain and Barcelona may not reflect the true challenge of upcoming circuits like Melbourne or Jeddah.

"The engines are very complicated and to be honest, it's probably causing more of a pain for all of the engineers than it is for the drivers,” the Briton added.

“However, these two tracks, Barcelona and Bahrain, are arguably two of the easiest circuits for the engine.

“So, I don't want to say anything too early before we get to the likes of Melbourne or Jeddah, because it will be much more challenging for the engines and the energy once we get there."

Adapting to New Driving Characteristics

Russell acknowledged some frustrations with the new powertrain demands, particularly when it comes to gear usage and cornering. Drivers must now maintain high engine revs in low gears to keep turbos spinning, which can create counterintuitive handling.

"The one challenge that we're faced with is using very low gears in the corners," he explained.

"Here in Bahrain, usually the first corner is a third-gear corner. Now we're having to use first gear to keep the engine revs very high to keep the turbo spinning.

“Sometimes it feels like a bit of a handbrake when you're having to go down the gears. This is probably the one thing that is quite annoying and isn't that intuitive.

“But for the rest, you can't argue with the amount of power you have when you get the full 350kW. But I also think it's going to progress a huge amount in the coming months, so we've got to give it time."

Bigger Picture Matters

Russell also stressed that the broader context of the 2026 rules must be considered, including the push to attract manufacturers like Audi and Honda and the influence of electric vehicle regulation in Europe.

"As with anything in life, you can't tick every single box," he added. "And there's more at stake.

“When these regulations came into play, there was obviously a huge push on EVs from the EU, and that was a big part for the likes of Audi to come in. So that's got to be a consideration.

"And I think nobody can argue that Formula 1 is in an amazing place currently. Of course, we want the best cars, the fastest cars, the best racing. But I don't know how you please everybody.

"As Lando said, we're privileged to be in this position. And in all honesty, I just want to win. I guess for a driver who's won quite a bit recently, you do just want to have the best car and the most fun cars to drive.

“So, yeah, [Verstappen is] welcome to go to the Nordschleife, I guess."

Read also:

• Russell blasts sandbagging claims: ‘We’ve taken a step back’

Russell’s comments signal a pragmatic approach amid early grumbles about F1’s new era.

While some drivers have voiced frustration, the five-time Grand Prix winner insists that patience and perspective will be key as teams unlock the potential of the 2026 regulations – and as drivers learn how to harness their hybrid beasts on the track.

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