Five Lessons from the First Half of F1 2026 Season

Formula 1 teams headed off on their summer break on 29 July 2026 after a hectic 11 races, marking the start of a new era in the sport. The first half of the F1 2026 season unfolded numerous storylines, including controversies over new rules, the emergence of a new star, the rebirth of a veteran driver, and disruptions in the calendar due to a war. As they prepared for a short vacation, teams faced uncertainty about the number of races remaining this season. Here are five learnings from the first half of F1 2026.

1. Antonelli is the real deal
Kimi Antonelli, who began his F1 career in 2025 with high expectations but a lackluster rookie season, has made significant strides in 2026. While his teammate George Russell was expected to dominate, Antonelli quickly showcased his exceptional talent. Although Russell kicked off the season with a win, Antonelli has since taken control, consistently demonstrating his capability. While Russell has struggled with the car's handling and faced misfortune, Antonelli's superb pace has positioned him as a strong contender for the second half of the season.

2. The new rules were poorly thought-out
This year's championship introduced the most significant rule changes in F1 history, involving new aerodynamic and engine regulations. Although the chassis rules were well-received, the engine changes have not lived up to expectations. The new power distribution has rendered cars energy-starved, leading to a significant reduction in horsepower. Current drivers like Max Verstappen have criticized the unrealistic dynamics created by the new regulations, leading to a series of artificial overtakes. The FIA has acknowledged the issues and is making adjustments, with expectations to shift the engine power split to 60-40 by 2028.

3. The real Hamilton is (mostly) back
Lewis Hamilton's tumultuous 2025 season with Ferrari has raised significant questions about his performance. However, after a victorious outing at the Spanish Grand Prix, Hamilton has demonstrated a rejuvenated form in 2026 and is currently second in the drivers' championship, competing closely with teammate Charles Leclerc. While his recent performances reflect his impressive skills, inconsistency remains a concern, as evidenced by multiple penalties in recent races.

4. Aston Martin finally have some hope
Despite pre-season talk about Aston Martin's potential, they have struggled, securing only one point thus far. With a talented design team led by Adrian Newey and Honda engines, expectations are high, but the team has yet to deliver significant results.

5. Calendar disruptions are a reality
The ongoing impacts of a war have affected the F1 calendar, causing uncertainty in scheduling and raising concerns about the sport's global presence. Teams have had to adapt quickly to changes in venues and logistics, emphasizing the need for agility in operations.