Nigel Mansell says fans are right to be unhappy with new F1 rules

Nigel Mansell has questioned the new Formula 1 technical regulations and says many fans are right to feel frustrated by what they are seeing this season.

After the first three races of 2026, the biggest talking point has been the new power unit rules. Cars now use a 50-50 split between the internal combustion engine and battery power, which has changed how drivers race in both qualifying and grands prix.

Drivers have had to manage energy much more carefully. In qualifying, they are often unable to push flat-out for the full lap because they must recover battery energy. Race overtakes have also been affected by automatic energy deployment systems.

The FIA will introduce changes from this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix. Battery charge will be reduced from 8MJ to 7MJ in an attempt to limit super-clipping and lift-and-coast driving.

Mansell, however, believes the current situation has already damaged the racing spectacle.

"I might get shot for saying this, but sadly, some of the overtakes are just totally false," he told Autosport.

He explained that some passes may look exciting at first, but then quickly reverse because the system gives power at unexpected moments.

"The car just blasts past you, and the other car goes backwards because the computer is giving you the extra power not at the right time," the 1992 F1 champion added.

Mansell also referred to comments from Lando Norris, who previously said he did not want to pass Lewis Hamilton in one battle, but had no choice because of the energy system.

According to Mansell, the biggest issue is how fans feel about it.

"The fans around the world, I know an awful lot of them are very grumpy. And to be fair to the fans, I agree with them," the Briton concluded.