Formula E Founder Voices Strong Concerns Over F1's Regulatory Direction
Alberto Longo, the influential co-founder of the all-electric Formula E championship, has joined a growing chorus of motorsport figures expressing significant dissatisfaction with Formula 1's evolving rulebook. In a pointed critique, Longo has articulated fears that F1 risks diluting its unique spectacle by adopting characteristics that bring it uncomfortably close to the Formula E model.
A Convergence of Championships and a Warning
"I definitely believe that they decided to go for certain regulations that probably are damaging their spectacle and their show a little bit," Longo stated unequivocally in an exclusive interview with Motorsport.com. "I think they are getting closer and closer to us. We do not have exclusivity, but we do have expertise already on that."
His comments arrive amidst a turbulent start to the 2026 F1 season, which commenced with the Australian Grand Prix. The event was marred by driver complaints ranging from flat battery issues to overtaking difficulties, with stars like reigning champion Max Verstappen and McLaren's Lando Norris vocal about the challenges.
Defining the Core Identity of Each Series
Longo drew a stark contrast between the two premier racing series. He emphasized that Formula E cars are engineered to maintain top speed during strategic phases like Attack Mode, without the performance drop associated with traditional braking. In contrast, he passionately defended F1's traditional essence.
"I think they need to go back to where they are," Longo urged. "They are noise, they are full power, they are breaking the latest [technologies], this is what Formula 1 is about. We are a completely different proposition... But the problem is that they try to become more Formula E."
The Looming Threat of a Talent Exodus
Perhaps the most provocative element of Longo's interview was his prediction of a potential brain drain. He suggested that F1's regulatory shift could trigger a recruitment drive targeting Formula E's specialized talent pool.
"I'm sure there will be fishing in our power in terms of technical people, engineers, even drivers - why not?" Longo speculated. "They will try to steal all those people from our teams and manufacturers, for sure."
Broader Industry Reactions and Driver Sentiment
Longo is not alone in scrutinizing F1's path. Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds and seasoned driver Lucas Di Grassi of Lola Yamaha ABT have previously shared perspectives on F1's move towards hybridization, a domain where Formula E has pioneered. Dodds notably extended an invitation to Max Verstappen to test drive Formula E's next-generation GEN4 car.
Verstappen's own post-race comments in Australia echoed a desire for F1 to rediscover its raw identity, calling for "proper F1 cars on steroids" after a disappointing sixth-place finish. This sentiment aligns with Di Grassi's public calls for the FIA to modernize its approach and prioritize pure performance, highlighting a broader debate within the motorsport community about the future direction of its flagship series.
