Fernando Alonso will love what Alex Albon has just said about F1’s new ‘different to drive’ 2026 cars

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F1 is now entering the final races with the current specification of car before a complete switch in 2026 to new engines and chassis.

It marks a significant change for F1 because it is the first time that both the engine and the chassis regulations will be changed, while new power unit manufacturers Audi and Red Bull will be entering the fold.

The big question is who is set to benefit the most from the new regulations, with Mercedes being linked with Max Verstappen.

Verstappen reportedly knows Red Bull is “far away” from addressing an issue with their 2026 engine, while Mercedes has yet to extend the contract for George Russell which runs out at the end of this year.

Teams have been working on their 2026 cars since January this year, but Alex Albon believes they will favour one type of driver when speaking to The Race.

Alex Albon thinks 2026 F1 cars will reward adaptable drivers

The 2026 cars will have less emphasis on the ground effect to generate downforce, instead relying on active aerodynamics that get activated through the corners.

Albon thinks a specific type of driver that has adaptable qualities will be rewarded: “It is really different to drive. I think that drivers that are really going to go well on this are the ones that can be really adaptable.”

“It’s very important how to use the engine and deployment, and you have to learn a different driving style,” he emphasizes, explaining: “Ultimately, it’s a matter of technology.”

“As far as we are concerned, I was not particularly shocked by the car and its performance. It was more about getting too familiar with the PU [in the simulator] and understanding how to make the best of it.”

Fernando Alonso is known for being one of the most adaptable drivers on the grid, having won titles in a car that was arguably not the fastest on the grid with Renault.

His ability to drag a result out of a sub-par car has earned him respect in the paddock, and it will no doubt benefit him in 2026.

READ MORE: Everything you need to know about F1’s 2026 engine and chassis regulations

Fernando Alonso can break Sebastian Vettel record at Spa Francorchamps

Alonso is one of the most experienced drivers on the grid along with Lewis Hamilton, and he could surpass a feat that is currently held by Sebastian Vettel at Spa Francorchamps.

The Spaniard could break Vettel’s record for most racing laps completed in F1 around the Belgian GP track, which currently stands at 622 laps.

Alonso has currently completed 582 laps around the circuit, so would need at least 41 or more laps on the Sunday during the race.

The Spaniard has suffered his fair share of bad luck at races this year, which is one of the main reasons why teammate Lance Stroll is outscoring him despite sitting 12-0 on qualifying.