F1 drivers fear 2026 rules will dull Brazilian GP racing

Several Formula 1 drivers have voiced concern that the 2026 regulations could reduce overtaking at Interlagos. Lewis Hamilton, who starts 20th after a 10-place grid penalty, said overtaking would be very hard and that the race may be more static than in past years. Max Verstappen, who won the 2024 edition from 17th on the grid, said the loss of DRS and the limits of overtake mode on the long straight make passing harder.

Carlos Sainz estimated the extra energy given by overtake mode to be worth only one or two tenths. Weather could change the picture, as active aero can be disabled in the wet, increasing the slipstream effect. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella said he would be surprised by a dry race given the forecast for rain.