Overview

• Vowles says the next rules cycle should produce closer competition than 2014, with Williams remaining a Mercedes customer in 2026.
• He notes ongoing discussions with the FIA on measures to prevent large power unit disparities under the new framework.
• The 2026 package introduces a true 50-50 hybrid power unit, lighter cars and active aero with DRS removed, reshaping race tactics.
• Based on simulations, he expects more passing executed in different parts of the lap, citing Spa as an example of reallocated opportunities.
• He explains that batteries could nearly fill in a single braking zone yet drain over one straight, creating busier cockpits and rewarding sharper energy management.