Two F1 Teams Blamed for Falling TV Figures as 2026 Regulation Debate Intensifies
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The debate surrounding Formula 1’s sweeping 2026 regulation changes has taken another twist, with two teams now being singled out as the primary cause of declining television viewership figures rather than the rules themselves.
Major technical changes were introduced at the start of the 2026 season, reshaping both chassis and power unit architecture. The most notable shift has been the increased reliance on electrical energy, with hybrid systems now delivering a significantly greater proportion of overall power compared to previous seasons. This has fundamentally altered race dynamics, placing a premium on energy management and strategic deployment across both qualifying and race conditions.
While these changes were designed to enhance overtaking opportunities and improve racing spectacle, they have divided opinion across the paddock. Among the most vocal critics has been Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion, who has repeatedly expressed dissatisfaction with the new-generation cars. The Red Bull Racing driver has gone as far as suggesting he could consider stepping away from Formula 1 if the current direction of regulations is maintained, citing a lack of driving enjoyment.
Despite such high-profile criticism, recent viewing figures suggest a more nuanced reality. In Spain, broadcaster DAZN reported a dramatic 49 percent drop in live audience numbers for the Japanese Grand Prix compared to the same event in 2025. At first glance, such a decline might appear to validate concerns that the new regulations are alienating fans.
However, veteran commentator Antonio Lobato has strongly rejected that interpretation. Instead, he has placed the blame squarely on the underperformance of two teams: Aston Martin F1 Team and Williams Racing.
The reasoning behind this claim is rooted in national audience engagement. Spain’s Formula 1 viewership has historically been driven by the presence and competitiveness of its star drivers, namely Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz. In 2026, both drivers have found themselves in uncompetitive machinery, significantly limiting their ability to challenge for points or podium finishes.
Alonso’s season, in particular, has been difficult. The veteran driver only managed to see the chequered flag for the first time this year at the third race in Japan and even then, he finished well outside the points in 18th position. Meanwhile, Sainz has similarly struggled to extract competitive performances from his Williams car, leaving Spanish fans with little incentive to tune in.
Lobato did not hold back in his assessment, arguing that fan disengagement is directly linked to the lack of on-track relevance for these national heroes. His comments suggest that, for many viewers, emotional investment in specific drivers outweighs broader considerations about technical regulations or race format.
Interestingly, global engagement metrics paint a more positive picture for Formula 1. The sport’s official digital platforms have experienced substantial growth, with online viewership particularly via YouTube reportedly doubling compared to the same period in 2025. This indicates that while traditional broadcast audiences in certain regions may be declining, overall interest in the sport remains robust.
On-track action also supports the argument that the new regulations have delivered on some of their intended objectives. The opening three races of the 2026 season have featured a higher number of overtakes compared to last year, reflecting a more dynamic and competitive racing environment. Unlike in 2025, where races often became processional after the opening lap, this season has seen more position changes and strategic variability throughout the field.
Another significant shift has been the reduced importance of pole position. In previous seasons, starting from the front often translated into a straightforward victory. In 2026, however, variability in race starts and energy deployment strategies has meant that pole sitters are no longer guaranteed to lead beyond the opening laps.
That said, one factor that may be contributing to perceptions of predictability is the dominance of Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team. With drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli securing all three wins so far, the championship fight at the front has lacked diversity at least in terms of race winners.
Even so, the races themselves have not been devoid of drama. Mercedes’ victories have not come easily, with both drivers needing to navigate competitive fields and strategic complexity to emerge on top.
Meanwhile, Verstappen’s criticism of the regulations has also been viewed through a competitive lens. The Dutch driver’s relatively slow start to the season amid a struggling Red Bull package has led some observers to suggest that his frustrations may be influenced as much by performance deficits as by genuine concerns over the driving experience.
As the season progresses, the interplay between technical innovation, competitive balance, and audience engagement will remain under close scrutiny. For now, the data suggests that while the 2026 regulations may be controversial, they are not solely responsible for fluctuations in viewership.
Instead, as highlighted by Lobato’s comments, Formula 1’s appeal continues to be deeply intertwined with driver performance and national interest factors that can often outweigh even the most significant regulatory changes.