McLaren Boss Calls for Urgent F1 Qualifying Fix

Andrea Stella demands qualifying become 'priority number one' for 2026 rule changes.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:34pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fragmented, multi-perspective action of a Formula 1 qualifying session, with the drivers' cars and the circuit itself broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color, conveying the technical complexity and tension of the moment.As F1 grapples with the technical challenges of its new power unit regulations, the sport's traditional qualifying excitement hangs in the balance.Today in Miami

Andrea Stella, the McLaren team boss, has issued a strong warning to Formula 1's governing body and stakeholders, insisting that qualifying must become the sport's top priority after safety concerns. Stella argues that the current battery-heavy power unit regulations have turned qualifying into a 'glorified run in energy accounting' rather than a true test of driver skill and bravery. He cites iconic corners like Suzuka's Degner One and Spoon Curve being 'neutered' by the need to save electrons, rather than push the limits of the car. Stella is urging the FIA and F1 to find a solution before the Miami Grand Prix, to restore the excitement and DNA of qualifying as the moment where the best drivers are rewarded.

Why it matters

Qualifying has traditionally been the most thrilling part of an F1 weekend, separating the true greats from the merely good. But Stella's comments highlight how the current regulations have stripped much of the drama and risk-taking out of this crucial session. If qualifying becomes a mere 'lift and roll' exercise, it threatens to undermine the core appeal of F1 for many fans who tune in to see the drivers push the limits.

The details

Stella argues that the 2026 power unit regulations, with their heavy emphasis on battery management, have turned qualifying into a technical exercise rather than a true test of driver skill. Corners that once required 'iron nerves' now just require 'a calculator' as drivers focus on preserving energy rather than attacking the circuit. Stella cites the iconic Degner One and Spoon Curve corners at Suzuka as examples, where drivers now 'lift and roll through the corner' rather than committing fully to the apex.

  • The key stakeholder meeting to address the 2026 F1 regulations is scheduled for next week during the April break.
  • Stella hopes a solution can be found before the upcoming Miami Grand Prix.

The players

Andrea Stella

The team principal of the McLaren Formula 1 team, who has been vocal in his criticism of the current qualifying format under the 2026 regulations.

Formula 1

The governing body of the sport, responsible for setting the technical regulations that have come under fire from Stella and others.

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What they’re saying

“I think as an F1 community, we have identified the priority number one, apart from safety issues, that we at McLaren in particular have definitely raised the attention [of], like starts or the risks with the lift and coast of the car ahead for the following car and so on.”

— Andrea Stella, McLaren Team Principal

“You mentioned Degner One is now a corner in which you almost lift and roll through the corner, and then you have to avoid going on power between Degner One and Two, because that way of using your battery would not be efficient.”

— Andrea Stella, McLaren Team Principal

What’s next

The FIA and F1 stakeholders will meet during the April break to discuss potential changes to the 2026 regulations, with Stella hopeful that a solution can be found before the upcoming Miami Grand Prix.

The takeaway

Stella's comments highlight the growing concern that the current technical regulations are undermining the core appeal of Formula 1 by turning qualifying into a mere energy management exercise rather than a true test of driver skill and bravery. If the sport's governing body cannot find a way to restore the excitement and drama of qualifying, it risks alienating long-time fans and failing to attract new ones.