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F1's new era demands a new driving style as 'big four' seek opening victory in Australia
The 50-50 engine and electric power split demands strategic energy management as Mercedes, Ferrari, McLaren, and Red Bull emerge as early title favorites in 2026 testing.
- At the start of the 2026 season, the FIA mandates a 50-50 split between combustion and electric hybrid power as Cadillac joins, Madring replaces Barcelona, and Apple takes U.S. broadcast rights.
- Under the new hybrid rules, drivers in preseason testing revved for fast getaways, lifted off on straights to charge batteries, and faced a tricky standing starts procedure due to the 50 kph threshold for hybrid engagement.
- On tracks such as Australia, Ferrari's rear wing turns upside down for speed and a mini-wing behind the exhaust; Hamilton staged a four-car practice pass last week in Bahrain.
- Despite big changes, Mercedes, Ferrari, McLaren and Red Bull remain the top four, with Mercedes's fast engine drawing scrutiny while defending legality and aiding George Russell's contention.
- The FIA could intervene if early races produce bizarre scenarios, while Max Verstappen called the cars `no fun` and Lewis Hamilton criticized the rules' complexity; some teams sacrificed 2025 to chase 2026 gains.
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15 Articles
15 Articles
F1's New Era Demands A New Driving Style As 'Big Four' Seek Opening Victory in Australian GP
Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, the two most successful drivers on the grid, were critical in testing of cars whose electrical hybrid systems promote unusual driving styles and make racing more strategic
·Hyderabad, India
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The Toronto StarReposted by 
The Record
The RecordF1’s new era demands a new driving style as ‘big four’ seek opening victory in Australia
Chaotic starts, tricky overtaking, lifting off the gas on straights. Formula 1's new era of regulations could upend the series in unexpected ways when the season begins with the Australian
·Toronto, Canada
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources15
Leaning Left3Leaning Right4Center7Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
L 21%
C 50%
R 29%
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