F1 2026 Rules Slow Spa Pole by 4 Seconds as Energy Limits Reshape Iconic Corners
Updated
Updated · Autosport · Jul 19
F1 2026 Rules Slow Spa Pole by 4 Seconds as Energy Limits Reshape Iconic Corners
3 articles · Updated · Autosport · Jul 19
Summary
Kimi Antonelli’s 1:44.361 pole lap at Spa was nearly four seconds slower than Lando Norris’s 2025 benchmark, exposing how sharply the 2026 rules have changed the circuit.
330km/h at Eau Rouge and then heavy speed loss through sector two showed the core problem: drivers burn electrical energy early, then run much of the middle sector on combustion power alone.
40km/h deficits before Rivage and roughly 30km/h lower speeds through Pouhon turned corners that once demanded commitment into flat-out sections, while Blanchimont costs about 50km/h this year.
Red Bull and Williams said deployment strategy remained unclear even after simulations, underscoring how difficult Spa has become under the new power-unit rules.
Andrea Stella said Spa proves some long, energy-hungry tracks have lost character under the 2026 package, strengthening the case for planned 2027-28 regulation changes.