Alonso criticizes hybrid era as Formula 1 revises 2027 power rules

As Formula 1 moves to adjust its power unit regulations for 2027, veteran driver Fernando Alonso has delivered a sharp critique of the sport's hybrid era, arguing it has cost the championship nearly a decade of "pure racing." The planned changes aim to shift the balance between internal combustion and electric power to a 60/40 split, but Alonso believes the fundamental philosophy remains flawed.

The FIA, the sport's governing body, has signaled an intention to overhaul the regulations by increasing fuel flow and reducing electrical power, moving away from the current nearly 50/50 split. This follows earlier adjustments introduced at the Miami Grand Prix, which gave officials the ability to limit energy harvesting on a circuit-by-circuit basis. These steps are a response to widespread criticism from teams and drivers regarding the current power units, which have incentivized energy management techniques like lifting and coasting into corners and deliberately driving below the grip limit to recharge batteries.

Alonso, a two-time world champion, contends that simply altering the ratio does not address the core issue. He stated that the DNA of these hybrid power units will always be...