LEWIS HAMILTON reckons there could be shock winners during the new Formula One season – after huge changes were made to the car regulations.
The Brit, 41, is going into the campaign with a joint-record seven World Drivers’ Championship titles.
And Hamilton was involved in showing off the brand new Scuderia Ferrari SF-26 earlier this month.
He feels the alterations made to cars have resulted in it being more of a level playing field.
Hamilton said: “In 19 years, this is the biggest [change in cars] that I’ve noticed. It really puts everyone on the back foot.
“Whoever develops the fastest, is the smartest in optimising the time and the energy deployment and development will be the ones at the top.
“It gives everyone a chance to get to the top, which is good.”
The new-look cars are 10cm narrower and 30kg lighter because of the fresh rules affecting the engines and chassis.
Engines will be split evenly between electric and internal combustion power, with sustainable fuel to be used.
As well as new engines, some parts will be removed including the Motor Generator Unit – Heat (MGU-H).
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The MGU-H recovers energy from the exhaust and turbo, and its removal will see big amendments made to the car’s aerodynamics.
Movable front and rear wings have been brought in while the venturi-underbody ground effect philosophy – introduced into F1 in 2022 – has been done away with.
The aim is to increase straight-line speed to enable more energy harvesting under braking.
Lando Norris will be looking to defend his title when the season gets underway with the Australian Grand Prix on March 8.
The McLaren driver held off Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri after a nail-biting finish to 2025.
