McLaren share insider information from crunch F1 rules meeting

McLaren boss Andrea Stella has shared insight into crunch F1 Commission meetings about the 2026 rules - and believes that "political games" are not being played.

In addition to a series of talks planned throughout the April break to address concerns raised by the first three grands prix of the season, F1, the FIA, and teams regularly meet in the F1 Commission. 

This is the body where rules are first proposed, and where, after further discussion are put forward to the World Motor Sport Council for formal ratification if so desired.

With changes to the qualifying rules, the split in power output from the engines, and other problems on the table ahead of F1's return in Miami, Stella has detailed how he feels nobody is trying to advance an agenda in the talks to serve their own interests.

"I cannot say whether the solutions will be implemented for Miami or later, but I think there will be adjustments made in 2026 in order to improve the way in which we utilise what is available in the power unit," Stella told media, including RacingNews365.

"For instance, the challenge of qualifying and the excitement of qualifying, which is an excitement for the drivers and spectators, when we had the last F1 Commission, the attitude by all parties was very constructive.

"It wasn't difficult to identify the areas to work on, and I think all parties come with the will to find some solutions and implement them, so I don't think it will be too much of a political game.

"I think it is more of a technical challenge, like what do you do in terms of adapting what is available in the current regulations to make sure that qualifying retains these challenging elements and you are rewarded if you attack a nice, big corner, or if you are earlier on the throttle, you are not penalised because you use your battery too early.

"So I don't think it is political; it is more technical, and I would expect changes in 2026."