Concerns for Spa-Francorchamps
With the new generation of Formula 1 cars, the 2026 Belgian Grand Prix could be more than any other deeply marked by the logics of energy management.
In particular, early simulations fear that in the second sector of the track the cars will run out of electric power, due to charging reasons and probably with decidedly cold brakes. And even Lewis Hamilton highlighted this in the interviews leading up to the Spa race.
Read more Penalty at Spa: Hadjar at the back of the grid, fits a new power unit
In short, despite the adjustments made to the technical regulations, this F1 with the electric component almost equal to the thermal one still generates debate. The so-called ‘yo-yo’ battery overtakes, where halfway down the straight a discharged car is practically overtaken by the one following it, will not have escaped the eyes of the most attentive and knowledgeable fans. Something that is becoming sadly familiar even for the drivers themselves.
Hamilton criticizes energy overtakes
Speaking to journalists on the Thursday of the Belgian Grand Prix, a question was asked to Lewis Hamilton precisely about how overtaking has changed over time. And who better than the English Ferrari driver can answer, with his 20 seasons in F1 and 389 Grands Prix raced so far.
Add FormulaPassion to your Favorite Sources on Google
“Certainly overtakes are no longer as satisfying as they used to be. Probably there are still half the tracks where you really can’t overtake,” Hamilton admitted with brutal honesty, continuing: “On some nice circuits most overtakes happen under braking, as it should be. But often you see overtakes halfway down the straight, because one runs out of power. How to adapt? It’s more about understanding how much battery you have available: if you use it to overtake, shortly after it will be the rival who has the power to pass you. You have to try to manage it quite strategically.”
Read more Grassilli: “Bagnaia leaving Ducati? 2025 a difficult year with rather harsh statements”
