Gasly: ‘Too much negativity’ around F1’s rules – but changes needed

For all the noise generated by Formula 1’s controversial 2026 regulations, Pierre Gasly is striking a careful balance – acknowledging the sport’s growing pains while warning against what he sees as an overreaction.

Frustrations among his colleagues peaked during last weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix, where the high-speed demands of Suzuka met the limitations of the new power units.

During qualifying, instead of the traditional flat-out flyer, drivers were forced to "super clip" to ensure the battery remains viable for a full lap. This tactical management has effectively neutered some of the most iconic corner sequences on the calendar, turning a test of raw speed into a game of electrical accounting.

On one hand, Gasly conceded that drivers are grappling with a radically different qualifying dynamic dominated by energy harvesting. On the other, the Frenchman believes the criticism risks spiraling into something unhelpful.

"I think, honestly, there's a bit too much negativity around it and I don't like that," he stated following the race in Japan.

While he acknowledges the flaws, he remains defensive of the skill required to handle the 2026 machinery, which features significantly less downforce.

"I really think that we still take too much away from the drivers,” Gasly added.

“When you're driving in sector 1 [at Suzuka] and you've got a certain grip, it doesn't really matter. The battery, all these things, you've still got to be at the limit of the grip you are given."

A call for structural change

Gasly has found himself in a unique position this season. Benefiting from Alpine’s early pivot to 2026 development and a switch to Mercedes power units, he has been a frequent fixture in the points, most recently securing a strong seventh place finish against Max Verstappenb at Suzuka.

However, even with his current momentum, he joins the unanimous front of drivers calling for a return to a pure racing format.

The safety concerns regarding closing speeds – highlighted by Oliver Bearman’s frightening accident in Japan – have only added urgency to an upcoming review planned for next week by the sport’s powerbrokers.

Gasly is hopeful that a middle ground can be found to restore the "flat-out" nature of the sport.

"Definitely, I agree with what others are feeling [about] the battery management, etc. I think we all agree. We all see the same stuff, we all speak the same language," the 30-year-old explained, emphasizing the unity among the grid.

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"We all want the sport to be as good as it can be. I'm sure we'll do what's best. It's a bit of a review. I'm sure [that during the] break everyone's going to make the best of it to try to get the F1 in better shape."

As the sport awaits its reprise in Miami next month, the pressure is on the regulators to ensure that the "pinnacle of motorsport" remains a showcase for the world's best drivers, rather than a masterclass in energy management.

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