Oscar Piastri claims 2026 Formula 1 power units will create tactical racing

The 2026 F1 regulations mandate that the power units will have a power output split equally between the Internal Combustion Engine and the electric component, which has grown compared to the outgoing power plants.

There has been a lot of speculation about whether the batteries will have enough juice at the ends of straights to keep the cars going at high speed, an issue the rule makers tried to circumvent by introducing active aero that reduces drag.

So basically, there will be a lot of unknowns in the upcoming F1 season, and when asked what fans should expect, Piastri said: "I think it definitely will be different, yes.

"I think in terms of how we race each other, it's going to be quite different. I think the hybrid element and managing the battery level is going to be a really important thing.

"I mean, it has been important in the past, but with that element being so much bigger from this season onwards, there's going to be a lot more management of that from the drivers ourselves," he explained.

Drivers will have to resort to different tactics as they race each other next season. Piastri added: "So, I think especially the beginning of the season, you could see some interesting scenarios between drivers.

"Some are more tactical and saving their battery, some are just trying to get track position, and it could be an interesting kind of tactical battle there.

"In all honesty, I also have no idea how it's going to pan out, but I think it'll be entertaining one way or another," the Australian maintained.

Piastri finished the 2025 F1 season third in the Drivers' Standings behind Champion and teammate Lando Norris and runner-up Max Verstappen.

He enjoyed a great start to the season and led the Championship after the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, a lead he kept for 189 days. He started to struggle and lost his lead following the Mexico City Grand Prix. (Source: TODAY)