F1 legend drops 3-word reaction to the FIA launching the 2026 Formula 1 concept car
Former F1 world champion Damon Hill had a three-word reaction to the sports governing body FIA launching the 2026 concept car at the end of the 2024 season. The pinnacle of motorsport will be entering a new phase in the 2026 season as it introduces a new set of engine regulations for the foreseeable future.
2026 will feature new aerodynamic and engine regulations that would make the cars more nimble while making power units that will have 300 percent more electrical power from the battery. The new regulations would do away with the MGU-H while introducing sustainable fuels for the engines.
On Thursday, December 12, FIA revealed the rendered images of the first concept car for the 2026 season inside the wind tunnel and posted a series of pictures on their Instagram handle:
Former Williams F1 driver Damon Hill reposted the FIA's post on his Instagram stories and gave a three-word reaction to the new cars, saying:
"It begins now..."
Along with being nimble, the new cars would also not have the Drag Reduction System, known as "DRS", as it would be replaced by "Manuel Override Mode" which can be accessed by the drivers to give their additional electrical boost.
The F1 teams can start working on the new cars from January 1, 2025, and get their designs of their engines ready for the new regulations.
Fernando Alonso previews the 2026 F1 season
Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso said he would approach the 2026 season as his last given that his contract with the British team expires at the end of the above-mentioned season.
The two-time F1 world champion looked forward to the change of regulations and driving the car designed by former Red Bull aero wizard, Adrian Newey (as quoted by Race):
"Expectations will be high because it is a new car, change of regulations, car made by Adrian. Probably - or at least to start - it will be my last season in F1 because my contract finishes at the end of 2026. It is the time of delivering and the time of truth. High expectations."
Discussing his future in the sport, the Spaniard added:
"If 2026 is running smoothly and we are having a good time and there is a possibility to race one more year, I will be open [to it] for sure. I will not close the door beforehand. But I will not start thinking that and I will take every race as if it is my last race and I will enjoy every second."
Fernando Alonso signed a contract extension with the Aston Martin F1 team at the beginning of the 2024 season. He would be 45 by the end of his current contract and would hope to fight for race wins under Adrian Newey-designed cars before the end of his career.