Hulkenberg expects 2026 F1 'loophole' discovery

Nico Hulkenberg has stated he expects F1 engineers to find a loophole when it comes to the 2026 regulations.

The sport will enter a new era in two years' time with fresh aerodynamic and power unit regulations forcing the engineers into a new challenge.

The cars are expected to be more nimble as well as 30 kilogrammes lighter than the current competitors.

F1 engineers have a history of discovering loopholes when it comes to new regulations, offering a head-start when the season gets underway.

Speaking to select media including RacingNews365, Hulkenberg expects 2026 to be no different.

“Obviously teams invest a lot of money into infrastructure, into people, to make a difference somehow,” he said.

“They push that and then if they [FIA] level the playing field, you can't do much because obviously it's difficult and then contradicts itself, in a way.

“I think engineers, they always find a way. There's so much creativity, and with time, they work the rules, and they will find a loophole and an area where they can get an edge over someone and optimise it.

“I'm pretty relaxed about it anyway, it's something, I have zero impact on, no power, no say. But I trust the process. I trust that FIA and F1 will do the right thing.”

Electric increase 'inevitable' for F1

F1's new power unit for 2026 will see the MGU-H unit dropped, as well as a boost in electric output.

Although there have long been calls from fans for F1 to return to purely combustion engines, Hulkenberg says increasing the electrical components was necessary for the sport.

“Well, it's hybrid but it's still 50/50,” Hulkenberg stated. “So we still have 50 per cent combustion engine. 

“I think with how the world has changed in the last five years or decades, it was inevitable for F1.

“They had to they do to do the same, to stay up to date, to justify it, you know, with climate change, with all these things.

“I think it had to move in that direction as well. And 50/50 I think it's still a healthy split, it still leaves the door open for e-fuels and all these things in the future.”