FIA's Tombazis predicts end to Red Bull dominance and details future regulations

Performance convergence expected soon

Nikolas Tombazis, FIA's Single Seater Director, holds the view that Red Bull's current dominance in Formula 1 is not destined to last much longer.

In a recent interview with Corriere, Tombazis expressed his anticipation for a convergence of performances in the coming months, potentially taking place by the beginning of the following year.

"Aside from Red Bull, all the others are close. But I think it's just a matter of time, performance convergence will soon be achieved," he said.

Such a convergence could shape the future competitiveness of F1.

Tombazis suggested that teams are moving towards Red Bull's technical approach, with even prominent players like Mercedes and Ferrari adjusting their strategies.

This shift indicates an upcoming period of intense rivalry as teams strive to emulate and surpass Red Bull's current leading technical concepts.

A Naturally evolving balance

In Tombazis' perspective, the emerging balance in F1 should be a natural process, rather than an artificially induced phenomenon.

He pointed out that the disparity in performance observed currently is simply a result of teams' varying abilities to adapt and excel under the present regulations.

"We can't go against the ability of some to do a better job than others. We must acknowledge, with these rules, someone has been better," Tombazis stated.

This notion implies a more equitable F1 landscape in the near future, with teams finding their footing and enhancing their performance within the existing framework of rules.

Upcoming 2026 regulations

The upcoming 2026 F1 regulations appear to be drawing the attention of notable automakers, including Audi, Ford, and Honda.

These new rules aim for a greener approach, focusing on the increased electric power capacity in engines and the introduction of sustainable fuels.

As Tombazis explained, these adjustments are meant to ensure the survival and diversity of manufacturers in F1.

"We've increased the electric capacity of the engines, it wasn't easy to give up a technological jewel like the Mgu-h, but if we had left it, only two manufacturers would remain in F1," Tombazis stated.

He pointed out that these modifications would reduce the sport's environmental impact by 70%, indicating this is just the beginning of a more eco-friendly era in F1.

The future of aerodynamics and DRS

Speaking about the future of aerodynamics in F1, Tombazis revealed that the 2024 rules aim to significantly cut down on aerodynamic drag.

The current F1 cars carry an "invisible parachute" on straights, which he intends to remove in the interest of environmental efficiency.

Possible modifications may include introducing movable parts to aid the cars on straights, adding another layer of complexity to the sport's technical aspects.

Addressing the topic of the DRS (Drag Reduction System), Tombazis expressed that in an ideal world, it would be abolished.

However, he acknowledged the challenges that come with such a move.

"It won't happen in the short term because otherwise, overtaking would become very difficult," he remarked.

His comments underscore the balancing act between maintaining competitiveness and evolving the sport's technological framework.

While striving for an ideal scenario, FIA understands the current dependence on the DRS for facilitating overtaking maneuvers and hence plans to retain it for the foreseeable future.

Tombazis on Ferrari

Despite recent struggles, Tombazis voiced confidence in the capabilities of the Ferrari team.

With his unique perspective as a former member, he highlighted Ferrari's potential to return to its winning ways.

"Ferrari has a capable team and everything it needs to win, it's taking the right steps, but the others aren't waiting," he stated.

Tombazis further emphasised that a team's success cannot be solely attributed to one person, even if it's a genius like Adrian Newey.

While acknowledging Newey's significant role in Red Bull's performance, Tombazis pointed out that victory in F1 is a group effort.