Leclerc delivers damning verdict on new F1 rules ahead of key V10 talks

Charles Leclerc has vocalised his lack of enthusiasm for next year's technical regulations as he aimed support at a return to V10 engines.

F1 teams are set to meet in Bahrain this weekend to discuss the possible return of V10 engines in the near future.

The sport will change up its technical regulations next year with the power unit undergoing its biggest change since the current turbo hybrid assembly was introduced in 2014.

The changes include an almost 300 per cent increase in battery power and an even split between electric and combustion engine power output.

Leclerc admitted he has not been encouraged by what he has seen in the early stages of the data.

“I can definitely tell you what I think,” Leclerc told media including RacingNews365. 

“I think V10s would be great. What I've been seeing for next year is not something that is not particularly exciting for me. 

“I will say most of us share the same opinion. Maybe some will be more vocal than others for different reasons.

“But I think we all agree that V10 will be a much better solution.”

Leclerc acknowledges lack of driver input in final call

The proposal for a return to V10 engines is expected to be rejected given all manufacturers have invested heavily in the new 2026 power unit since its confirmation several years ago.

While Leclerc is adamant drivers are in support of a V10 return, he acknowledged the drivers have little say in discussions.

“We'll go with what we are told to do, really,” he said.

“I don't think we have much say as drivers in this kind of discussion. It's clear that for now, what we are looking at, it's not great. 

“Not only for racing, for everything really. Even in terms of safety, in some cases, it's quite tricky. 

“So these are things that the FIA will look at but I don't know if there's enough time to tackle those things. 

“I think these choices have been made now and we've got to deal with it in the best possible way.

“Our goal will be to be as competitive as possible. But from a driver's point of view, it's not that exciting.”