JULY 20, 2026

Ben Sulayem admits FIA mistakes over 2026 rules

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has acknowledged that mistakes were made with Formula 1's controversial 2026 regulations following intense criticism from drivers at Spa.

Carlos Sainz and Lewis Hamilton were among those questioning how the regulations had ever been approved after the severe energy-management problems became particularly visible on the long Belgian circuit.

We also make mistakes, Ben Sulayem told Viaplay.

We also have loopholes in the law. We will always raise our hand and fix these kinds of mistakes.

However, the FIA president insisted the regulations have also produced some progress since the beginning of the season.

If you look at the races at the beginning of the year, you could see that there was not enough competition. That competition is now there, he said.

The FIA has intervened and has studied all the information and all complaints.

However, Ben Sulayem said the governing body cannot unilaterally impose the changes many drivers are now demanding.

"In the end, you also have to deal with the engine suppliers and the manufacturers.

You need a required supermajority of four out of six, he explained. You need the teams to make sure that motorsport remains competitive and fair.

Red Bull and Mercedes have reportedly supported changes to the current power unit regulations, while Honda, Audi and Cadillac have been more reluctant and Ferrari has opposed major revisions.

Attention is now increasingly turning towards Formula 1's next engine formula, with broad support emerging for a return to V8 power from 2031.

To get back to the V8 engines, we have to ask ourselves what the goals are and why, Ben Sulayem said. "I have the idea that there is a need for a fresh new engine, which meets all the requirements.

One aspect is the sound for the fans. That is also very important to us, as is the simplicity and the cost savings.

Asked about plans for V8 engines running on fully sustainable fuel, he confirmed discussions are underway.

Yes, you have 100 percent durability with that fuel. We are now calculating and consulting with the teams, the engine suppliers and also with the drivers.

In the end, it's not about me or the teams. The drivers drive the cars.

(GMM)