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F1 Drivers React to New 60-40 Power Unit Regulations

Autosport F1 News •
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Formula 1's shift to a 60-40 power split between internal combustion and electrical power has drawn mixed reactions from drivers. Lando Norris called it a great direction that eliminates throttle management debates, while Max Verstappen sees it as the minimum needed improvement. Most drivers agree it moves the sport forward, though concerns remain about whether it goes far enough.

Oscar Piastri warned that even previous 80-20 or 85-15 splits didn't solve deployment issues at all circuits. Sergio Perez noted the change varies significantly between tracks and requires real-world testing before judging effectiveness. Charles Leclerc emphasized the complexity of finding solutions that work fairly across teams with different designs.

Technical challenges persist beyond the split ratio itself. Drivers struggle with battery state management during qualifying laps, balancing between starting with full battery versus turbo boost pressure. Carlos Sainz argued that purists will never accept electrical dependency, preferring the KERS era when hybrid power felt more like an enhancement.

While the 60-40 split represents progress, most drivers acknowledge it's not the complete fix. The regulation change addresses immediate concerns about electrical power management but leaves fundamental questions about the sport's hybrid direction unanswered until 2030.