The Ringer F1 Show Biggest Questions Going Into the 2026 F1 Season
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Dec 11, 2025 
Spanners Ready, an F1 commentator and analyst, joins Megan to dive into the highly anticipated 2026 season. They discuss the sweeping new regulations and what they mean for car design and performance. Key highlights include expectations for Cadillac in its debut year, predictions for title favorites, and the implications of possible DRS removal. They also cover the excitement around rookie Arvid Lindblad and dissect new engine partnerships, promising a season full of unpredictable dynamics.
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Scale Of The 2026 Rule Change
- The 2026 rules are one of the biggest simultaneous chassis and engine overhauls in F1 history.
- Cars will be smaller, ~66 pounds lighter, and shift to a 50/50 hybrid split with movable wings and major aero changes.
DRS Replaced By Movable Wings And Boost
- DRS disappears and is replaced by movable wings plus a push-to-pass electrical boost called MOM (manual override mode).
- The sport expects lower downforce (
30%) and much less drag (55%), changing overtaking dynamics.
Driver Skepticism Over Car Feel
- Drivers worry the reduced downforce and emphasis on electrical energy will make cars less enjoyable and harder to drive.
- Early sim feedback from Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton shows scepticism about the new feel.