The revolution coming to Formula 1 in 2026 is already causing nervousness among the top teams on the grid. The new regulations introduce significant changes not only to the engines and aerodynamics, but especially to the type of sustainable fuel that the cars will use, which will be 100% synthetic and free of fossil components. In this new scenario, Mercedes and Red Bull have expressed concern, while Aston Martin and Honda seem to be better prepared thanks to a partnership with Aramco.
The new F1 fuel
Christian Horner and Toto Wolff have expressed their concern about the role the new fuel will play as a potential performance differentiator in 2026. Although both consider it positive to move towards a cleaner F1, there is concern that the costs and complexity of developing these new fuels could create a significant gap between teams.
“The fuel companies are very committed, but the development costs are outside the budget that was expected,” Horner explained during the Miami Grand Prix. For his part, Wolff commented that “achieving a completely green supply chain is very expensive. It’s something we need to reevaluate if we want to maintain the financial sustainability of the sport.”
Both directors agree that the price per liter of the new synthetic fuel, created from non-food biomass and urban waste, is much higher than expected. The possibility of increasing the F1 budget cap is a real option.
Honda and Aramco are confident
While Mercedes and Red Bull are concerned, Aston Martin and Honda are more optimistic. Their alliance with Aramco seems to be working for 2026. Andy Cowell, head of Aston Martin, visited Honda’s facilities a few weeks ago and was very pleased with the work and technological and logistical capabilities of the Japanese manufacturer.
“Honda and Aramco are completely in sync. The joint research into fuel chemicals and their integration with the V6 engine is fascinating,” Cowell said. This synergy allows them to optimize both performance and energy efficiency in the face of the new technical regulations.
The data obtained in laboratory tests with single-cylinder engines is sent to Aramco, which analyzes and selects the compounds that seem best before testing them on a real scale. This way of working has left Cowell “overwhelmed” by the involvement in the project.
Who is really ready for 2026?
With a new factory at Silverstone equipped with the latest technology, technical talent signed up by Lawrence Stroll, and collaboration with a world champion manufacturer, Aston Martin sees 2026 as a clear opportunity to reach the top of F1. Meanwhile, Mercedes and Red Bull seem to be more concerned about the future of the competition with the arrival of the new sustainable fuel.
The big question facing 2026 is not only who will have the best engine or the most efficient chassis, but also who will be able to get the most out of a new fuel that is unknown to everyone. In this race, Honda and Aramco seem to be making steady progress, while Mercedes and Red Bull will have to accelerate their development if they don’t want Aston Martin to confirm the fears of many F1 teams, namely that Fernando Alonso’s team could be in contention for the World Championship. Time is ticking and the new era of F1 is fast approaching.