F1's 2026 Crisis Deepens: Marko Demands Urgent Rule Changes Now
Apr.14 - Former Helmut Marko says Formula 1 must urgently fix what he calls the "imperfect" 2026 regulations - as the sport begins shifting back toward traditional engine thinking.
Speaking to ORF amid ongoing April crisis talks, Marko said the current rules were conceived under very different assumptions about the future of mobility.
"Some points were missed when the regulations were developed, but we must not forget that the regulations were adopted in the years when there was an opinion that electric vehicles were the only option," he said.
"However, the situation has changed significantly since then - internal combustion engines have made a comeback thanks to new fuels that emit no CO2, making them environmentally friendly."
While the longer-term direction may now be evolving, Marko is clear that short-term fixes are also urgently needed for the 2026 season itself.
"Changes need to be made now, and hopefully the FIA will do everything in its power to reduce the battery's share and focus more on the combustion engine," he said.
His comments come as the FIA prepares for a decisive high-level gathering on April 20 where "preferred options" for regulation changes will be discussed, following technical sessions on April 15 and 16.
At the heart of the controversy is the heavy focus on energy management in the 2026 rules - particularly in qualifying, where drivers have been forced to lift on straights rather than deliver flat-out laps.
Read also: FIA Tweaks 2026 Rules As F1 Pressure Builds Fast
