Alonso calls for 'fixes and improvements' over controversial 2026 engine algorithms

Fernando Alonso has called for improvements to the algorithms governing 2026 Formula 1 cars' energy deployment, amid ongoing frustration from drivers with the new regulations. Under the 2026 rules, the cars' power delivery is divided nearly evenly between electrical power and internal combustion, with a self-learning computer algorithm determining how the battery deployment is used throughout a lap and adapting to driver inputs.

Drivers are unable to fully control deployment, leading to criticism from several drivers this season.

Alonso, speaking after the Belgian GP at Spa-Francorchamps, where the 2026 cars faced challenges, echoed McLaren's Oscar Piastri's sentiment. Piastri labeled the situation as "pretty crap" when it comes to racing. Alonso, competing in his 23rd F1 season, was asked if the stipulation in the F1 regulations that drivers must drive unaided and alone is in doubt due to the 2026 algorithms.

He replied that Formula 1 has always been like that to some extent, with drivers never fully controlling every aspect of the car's performance. Alonso noted that car performance has always been influenced by the team's setup and philosophy, even when considering the impact of the 2026 algorithms. While driver aids are not new, Alonso acknowledged that changes must be made to the current regulations surrounding the computer algorithms.

He expressed optimism that improvements can be made, either through tweaks for upcoming seasons or a potential return to V8 engines in the 2030s.