The FIA’s single-seater chief Nikolas Tombazis says the governing body didn’t have the necessary backing the manufacturers to tweak the 2026 Formula 1 power unit rules, having anticipated problems. The new regulations have been widely panned by drivers and fans alike, with the 50/50 power split leading to a greater emphasis on battery management. Article continues below ADVERTISEMENTArticle continues below ADVERTISEMENTBut these have done little to improve opinion, not least after the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa. Tombazis said earlier this year that future engine regulations cannot effectively be held hostage by the power unit manufacturers, for the good of the sporting side of F1. F1 is expected to go through another engine overhaul at the start of the next decade, with a return to V8 engines touted as the way forward.