The gloves are off in the world of open-wheel racing! Formula E co-founder Alberto Longo has unleashed a powerful critique, asserting that Formula 1's recent pivot towards increased electrical power is not just misguided, but actively 'damaging the show' he believes F1 should represent.
Key Takeaways
- Alberto Longo argues F1's new regulations, making power units 50% electric, are a misstep.
- Max Verstappen famously dubbed the 2026 F1 cars "Formula E on steroids," sparking debate.
- Longo maintains F1 should "stick to its principles" of raw power and noise, rather than emulating electric racing.
- Formula E is positioned as the true testing ground for future electromobility, including new circuit layouts and talent.
The Electric Divide: F1's Identity Crisis?
Longo, a key architect of Formula E, isn't holding back. While he remains a devoted fan of F1, he strongly believes the sport has veered off course with its latest rule changes, particularly the shift making 50% of the total power output electrical. This move, he contends, encroaches on Formula E's territory.
Verstappen's "Steroids" Jab and Longo's Counter
The debate ignited when reigning F1 champion Max Verstappen controversially labeled the new breed of F1 cars as "Formula E on steroids" during pre-season. This comparison, born from observations of intricate energy management, certainly caught attention.
Longo took the comment in stride. Employing a classic Spanish adage, he remarked, "let them talk." For the Formula E chief, any noise surrounding the championship simply reaffirms its growing importance in the motorsport landscape.
The Core of the Complaint: Damaging the Spectacle
Longo's central argument is clear: F1 is fundamentally misjudging its unique appeal. He fears that by mimicking the electrical emphasis of Formula E, the premier racing series risks diluting its own thrilling spectacle. He argues that F1 is getting "closer and closer to us" without the foundational expertise Formula E has cultivated.
Formula E's Expertise: A Different Kind of Power
Unlike F1's recent struggles, Formula E has mastered electrical power delivery. The contrast is stark; while F1 drivers reportedly ran out of electrical energy on straights in Melbourne, Formula E cars navigate similar challenges with ease.
Energy Management: Where FE Leads the Charge
Consider Formula E's Attack Mode: drivers can deploy 350kW of power for up to six minutes without experiencing a slowdown on straights. This robust energy management showcases Formula E's established dominance in electric racing technology. Longo urges F1 to revert to its roots: "noise, full power, breaking the latest [technologies] - this is what Formula 1 is about."
Beyond the Track: A Testbed for the Future
Formula E is not just a race series; it's a living laboratory. Longo envisions it as the ultimate proving ground for electromobility. The flexibility of Formula E to race on diverse urban circuits, like Brooklyn or Paris, highlights a freedom F1 simply doesn't possess.
With the upcoming Gen4 car in the 2026-27 season, Formula E plans to tackle wider tracks, such as the full Mexico circuit, further expanding its testing capabilities. This evolution solidifies its role as the definitive test platform for electric racing technology.
The Talent Grab: F1 Hunting in FE Waters?
As Formula 1 continues its journey into a more hybrid, electrically dependent future, Longo predicts a significant shift in talent acquisition. He anticipates F1 teams will increasingly poach skilled personnel from Formula E.
Engineers, technical experts, and potentially even drivers who have honed their craft in the intricacies of electric motorsport will become prime targets. Longo concludes, "They will try to steal all those people from our teams and manufacturers, for sure."
