Carlos Sainz defends firm action by the FIA in discussions about Formula 1 engines for 2027 By Janderson Luiz
5 min read
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Piloto Carlos Sainz, from the Williams team, defended a stricter stance by Federação Internacional from Automobilismo (FIA) in negotiations over the Fórmula 1 engines for the 2027 season. Ele emphasized the need for the federation to act firmly and maintain the commitment established with the changes foreseen in the technical regulations. The statement was made amid intense discussions between the main parties involved in the sport, seeking to define the future of the category’s power units.
Atualmente, the FIA, Fórmula 1, teams and manufacturers debate crucial adjustments for the next generation of power units. The central topic of the negotiations involves the delicate distribution of power between the combustion engine and the electrical system. The objective is to create a set of rules that balance performance, sustainability and spectacle, ensuring the competitiveness and technological relevance of Fórmula 1 for the coming years.
Alteração in power distribution for 2027
The technical regulations currently in force provide for an equal division of 50% of power to the combustion engine and 50% to the electrical system. Contudo, category managers have been actively discussing a significant change in this ratio. The new proposal aims to establish 60% of power for the combustion engine and 40% for the electrical system. Esta change seeks to reduce reliance on batteries during races, as well as potentially simplifying some aspects of engineering, rebalancing the balance between electrification and traditional car mechanics.
Inicialmente, an agreement in principle to implement this change in 2027 was reached between those involved in the negotiations. However, the process faced unexpected obstacles, especially due to resistance from two major automobile manufacturers. The divergence of opinions on the new proportion prevents the proposal from moving forward without major impasses in Comitê Consultivo, responsible for complex technical deliberations.
Ferrari and Audi make it difficult to approve the proposal
Apesar of the initial agreement, Ferrari and Audi express formal opposition to the proposed change in power distribution. Ambas automakers have strategic interests in Fórmula 1 and seek to ensure that the final regulation is aligned with their philosophies and investments in technology. On the other hand, Honda, Mercedes HPP and Red Bull Powertrains support the proposed change. Algumas of them have already confirmed their vote in favor, demonstrating their alignment with the new guideline and their belief in the benefits that the change would bring to the category. The combined resistance of the two manufacturers, however, exerts considerable weight in the political and decision-making process of the Fórmula 1.
Comitê Consultivo of Unidades of Potência has clear rules for approving any modification to the regulations, requiring a supermajority for the changes to take effect. The Fórmula 1 requires the support of four of the five manufacturers currently involved, in addition to the FIA itself and the management of the Fórmula 1, to validate any changes. Portanto, the joint opposition of Audi and Ferrari creates a scenario of impasse, preventing the approval of the change in the regulations at this crucial moment in the negotiations.
- Fabricantes Contrárias to Proposta:
- Fabricantes Favoráveis to Proposta:
* Ferrari
* Audi
* Honda
* Mercedes HPP
* Red Bull Powertrains
Sainz defends aggressive stance of FIA and FOM
Diante of the impasse scenario and the complexity of the negotiations, Carlos Sainz expressed his conviction that the FIA should adopt a more incisive position. The Spanish driver, who currently competes for Williams using Mercedes engines, emphasized the importance of the FIA and Formula One Management (FOM) remaining firm in implementing the proposed changes. Ele believes that the federation has the ability and power to drive consensus, even in the face of resistance from teams and manufacturers.
Sainz argued that if the FIA and FOM clearly determine that the change in power ratio must occur, teams that express complaints or are not fully aligned will have no option but to accept the decision. Essa’s vision underscores the importance of the federation’s leadership and authority in regulatory matters, especially when the sport’s coaching future is at stake.
The driver openly declared to the press: “There is Comissão where the teams have a vote, and it was exactly there that I told the FIA and FOM to move forward and maintain their commitment”. Ele reinforced the need for clear direction and an uncompromising stance to ensure the category’s long-term goals are achieved, avoiding unnecessary delays.
Apoio makes tough decisions for the benefit of the show
Sainz reiterated his support for managers who demonstrate firmness when making decisions, especially when they directly benefit the Fórmula 1 show. Ele stated that he is a “big fan” of managers who adopt a strong and decisive stance in favor of the sport, even if this means facing resistance. Essa philosophy aims to guarantee the evolution, competitiveness and attractiveness of the category for fans and participants.
The Spaniard believes there is still significant scope to improve the new regulations and engine specifications before the definitive debut in 2027. The expectation is that the rules can be adjusted and refined to optimize car performance and racing dynamics, ensuring that the next generation of engines will be a technical and sporting success. Ele sees opportunities for substantial improvements in the power unit concept, contributing to a more exciting future.
However, Sainz admitted that relevant changes for the current 2026 season seem unlikely, given the proximity to the start of work and the deadlines already established. For this reason, the driver chose to reduce his public criticism of the current situation in the category. Ele remains strongly optimistic about the transformations that the coming year will bring, hoping that the decisions made now will pave the way for a better Fórmula 1 in 2027.
