Damon Hill says 2026 F1 cars are ‘highly dangerous’ after Oliver Bearman’s Japanese GP crash

Follow us on Google Discover

Damon Hill agreed with Carlos Sainz’s recent criticism of the new F1 regulations in the aftermath of Oliver Bearman’s frightening crash in Suzuka.

Bearman suffered 50Gs of impact in his crash, as he went careening into the barrier during the Japanese Grand Prix.

Franco Colapinto saw Bearman lose control from his car, despite some believing he played a big part in the Haas driver’s crash.

Fans were rightfully upset over Bearman’s crash, with many calling for changes to the regulations that caused the incident.

Even drivers voiced their frustrations, including Carlos Sainz. Even Damon Hill has echoed these sentiments after the FIA put out a statement.

READ MORE: When is the next F1 race? Miami Grand Prix schedule after Bahrain and Saudi Arabia cancellations

Damon Hill claims ‘safety issue’ with new F1 regulations has been exposed

In response to the FIA’s post on X, where they defended the new regulations and vowed to look into the safety concerns, Damon Hill responded that there is a safety issue at play.

“I think we have a safety issue. Cars suddenly slowing at high speed is highly dangerous.”

When informed of Carlos Sainz’s criticism of the new regulations, Hill agreed and noted that these concerns from him and other drivers are completely valid.

“I think he’s right to be concerned. Cars unexpectedly slowing on the fastest parts of any circuit is tantamount to being ‘brake tested’. Lights are slightly too late to give enough warning.”

The safety concerns brought about by Oliver Bearman’s crash are surely going to be a major discussion point among FIA officials during their upcoming meeting over the hiatus.

READ MORE: Ayao Komatsu has just told Ferrari why they must find a way to promote Oliver Bearman

FIA officials under massive pressure to make key changes to new regulations

With comments from several drivers and luminaries within the sport, there’s no doubt that FIA officials will be worried about the reception of the new regulations.

Add to this the threat of Max Verstappen possibly retiring over the new regulations, the FIA officials will be feeling the pressure to change.

Even with positive fan reception, it will be difficult for officials to defend the near-unanimous opposition from drivers and team officials over the new regulations.

At the very least, the authorities will have to make some concessions, even if they cannot make long-term changes to the regulations over this hiatus.