McLaren point to 'disruptive' regulations in F1 driver assessment

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has stated that Formula 1’s new regulations have been “disruptive” for his drivers, while praising how Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have adapted to the challenge.

F1 underwent a significant regulatory overhaul this year, with major changes introduced to both the aerodynamic and power unit regulations.

The changes have prompted complaints from several drivers, who feel they have had to move away from their traditional driving styles in order to extract maximum performance from the new cars.

However, despite the challenges presented by the new regulations, Stella insisted that his drivers have responded admirably.

“I am very pleased with how our driver line-up is performing in this early part of the 2026 season,” he said.

“For Oscar and Lando – as indeed for their 20 colleagues on the F1 grid – the impact of the new regulations has been nothing short of disruptive. 

“The new generation of single-seaters requires not only an adaptation of driving style but, above all, much greater focus on understanding how to exploit the full potential offered by the new power units.”

Arguably the most demanding challenge the drivers have faced is the new power unit, which has received a significant boost in electrical output.

As manufacturers scrambled to stay on top of reliability concerns, Stella stated it added an extra headache for the drivers.

“The learning process has at times proved complicated and was slowed down, particularly in the early stages, by various reliability issues.

“Both have responded in the right way, working with great commitment alongside the team, day in, day out. 

“There is still room for improvement, particularly regarding the power unit, and we are working very well with our partners at HPP, including on the interaction between the driver and the power unit.”