Tombazis: F1 Must Remain Independent of Manufacturer Decisions

FIA single‑seater director Nikolas Tombazis told the media that Formula 1 must not become a hostage to any car maker’s choice to join or leave the grid. His comments arrive as the sport rolls out the 2026 package – a 50/50 hybrid split and fully sustainable fuels – meant to attract new manufacturers while keeping existing ones on board.

Why it matters:

• Manufacturer exits could shrink the grid and threaten the sport’s financial stability.
• The 2026 hybrid and fuel rules rely on automakers to share costs and stay technically relevant.
• Keeping F1 independent is key to preserving competitive balance and fan interest.

The details:

• Tombazis says F1 cannot be a hostage to any automaker’s participation.
• 2026 rules set a 50/50 power split and 100 % sustainable fuels to lure brands like Audi and retain Honda.
• Drivers, including Max Verstappen, have called the electric emphasis “Mario Kart” racing.
• The expected rapid shift to fully electric powertrains has stalled; manufacturers still develop ICEs.
• He urges early discussion on the next rule cycle because power‑unit development takes years.

What's next:

• FIA will push cost‑reduction while courting more manufacturers.
• Early talks on the 2029 rule set are expected, possibly revisiting V8s and tweaking the hybrid balance.
• If manufacturers pull out, F1 will rely on flexible, sustainable engine regulations to keep the grid viable.