Carlos Sainz urges F1 rivals to ‘stop criticising’ 2026 regulations despite need for more ‘changes’

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Carlos Sainz believes it’s time F1 drivers stop being so critical of the new regulations, even if there is room for improvement.

The new changes made to the 2026 F1 regulations were in full effect over the weekend, as they seemed to make a difference at the Miami Grand Prix.

Lando Norris was positive about the new changes, while still acknowledging that the hybridisation was a problem that needed to be solved in the long-term.

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Is the right direction for F1?

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On the other hand, Oscar Piastri questioned the random nature of the new regulations and the subsequent changes made.

But Carlos Sainz, fresh off his second top-10 finish this season, called for more patience from his rivals and fellow drivers when it comes to the new rule changes.

READ MORE: Carlos Sainz doubles down on criticism of overly ‘aggressive’ Max Verstappen at Miami GP

Carlos Sainz explains why ‘it’s time’ to end criticism of new regulations and collaborate on changes

Speaking to ESPN after the race, Carlos Sainz talked about the criticism of the new regulations and whether the recent changes had made a difference.

Sainz shut down the criticism of ‘artificial’ overtaking, noting that drivers have to be more careful with their engine strategy.

But rather than invite more criticism, Sainz wants to see a more collaborative effort to bring changes to the sport.

“Look, overtaking is overtaking. That’s true. But it depends more on what you do with the engine strategy and engine map than what you do as a driver.

“So I think these regulations still have potential for improvement. But I think it’s time to stop criticising and keep pushing for changes in the right direction.”

READ MORE: Carlos Sainz blasts Williams with furious team radio outburst after dismal Miami Sprint qualifying

Some brilliant performances in South Beach! But who is your Driver of the Day for the Miami Grand Prix?

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F1 trying to limit criticism of new regulations isn’t a good idea

Drivers have been very vocal in their criticism to try to get the FIA to listen and make changes almost immediately.

While this motivation may have been misguided, there is no defending the teams and the Formula 1 officials trying to limit this criticism.

McLaren outright barred Norris from criticising the new regulations, which was confusing, given that he hadn’t been nearly as harsh on the new regulations recently.

Perhaps Sainz’s comments can be considered an olive branch from the drivers to officials, as they look to take a more collaborative approach to making changes to the new regulations.