Lando Norris has voiced strong opposition to Formula 1’s current hybrid power regulations, calling for the battery element to be eliminated from the sport altogether. Despite an agreed overhaul set to take effect next season, Norris believes these changes don’t go far enough to improve racing.
This year’s F1 regulations introduced a near 50-50 split between combustion engine power and electrical energy. This hybrid system requires drivers to manage their battery usage actively, including reducing speed on parts of qualifying laps to conserve energy for faster overall times. Additional features like the boost button designed to aid overtaking have sparked controversy, with critics including four-time world champion Max Verstappen, who even threatened to quit the sport.
In response to these concerns, tweaks were made to the rules ahead of the Miami Grand Prix. After consultations between Formula 1, the FIA, and team principals, the engine regulations for next season will see the internal combustion engine output increase by 50 kW, while the electric Energy Recovery System (ERS) will decrease by the same amount. This adjustment aims to shift the power balance closer to 60% combustion and 40% electric, reducing, but not eliminating, the need for battery management. The goal is to make racing more intuitive and less restrictive for drivers.
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However, Norris remains critical, stating that even with these modifications, drivers cannot race flat out consistently without being penalized. Speaking after the Miami GP, he said, “It’s a small step in the right direction, but it’s not enough. You still can’t be flat out everywhere without penalty. You shouldn’t be punished for driving aggressively, but currently, you are. Honestly, I don’t think this issue can be fixed with tweaks – the battery should just be removed. Hopefully, that will happen in a few years.”
While Norris’s vision may be realized eventually, it won’t come soon. The FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has confirmed plans to reintroduce V8 engines with less reliance on electric power from 2030 or 2031. He told Reuters the V8 return is “a matter of time” and that the FIA hopes to accelerate the timeline to meet broad demand.
Currently, Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli leads the world championship after three wins in the first four rounds, ahead of teammate George Russell. The Formula 1 season continues at the Canadian Grand Prix on May 24.