Leclerc unfazed by FIA's new start safeguard rule: "Nothing will change"

FIA's new safety net for 2026 starts

Ahead of this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix, the FIA has rolled out a series of regulatory updates, headlined by a new safeguard aimed at preventing dangerously slow getaways off the line. The intervention follows a turbulent start to the 2026 season, where inconsistent torque delivery has triggered several near-misses and one major accident.

Detailing the mechanics of the new low-power start system, he added: “If it is detected that a car has an extremely problematic start, the electrical system will activate and take control, ensuring that the car moves off safely to avoid risks for the drivers behind.”

Ferrari's launch advantage remains secure

Ferrari has established itself as one of the strongest teams off the line in 2026. The Scuderia has capitalized on the characteristics of its smaller turbocharger, which provides highly consistent torque at low revs. With the governing body now stepping into the start procedure, questions naturally arose over whether Ferrari might lose its competitive edge.

Charles Leclerc, however, was quick to dismiss any concerns that the Italian squad’s launch performance would be compromised.

“I honestly don't think they will affect starting performance, it's more of a system to avoid problems if someone were to start very badly,” Leclerc reassured. “If you make a normal start, nothing will change.”

The upgrade race and wet weather concerns

Beyond the start line, the broader competitive landscape is set for a potential shift in Miami. Following a long break in the calendar, numerous teams are arriving with significant upgrade packages. While Leclerc acknowledges the grid might look slightly different, he does not anticipate a complete overhaul of the current pecking order.

“Surely it will be unusual to see so many updates for so many teams, but with the long break, many cars will be practically new,” Leclerc noted, as Ferrari prepares its own crucial updates. “However, I doubt that the order we have seen so far will change significantly. There may be differences, but I don't expect a reversal. Let's hope that when compared to McLaren, our package will make a difference. But to reach Mercedes, I think they are too far ahead, at least for the updates we bring here.”

Looking ahead to the weekend, Leclerc also voiced apprehensions regarding the prospect of racing in wet conditions under the new 2026 power-unit regulations. The combination of poor visibility and varying energy-deployment strategies across the grid could lead to highly unpredictable and hazardous scenarios.

“It will seem strange, but you can be faster at the end of the straight in the wet than in the dry,” he warned. “The problem is that, with poor visibility and different engine strategies, we could find ourselves in complicated situations.”