Wolff and Horner continue their clash over 2026 F1 engine regulations

Christian Horner and Toto Wolff engage in a heated exchange over 2026 Formula 1 engine regulations. Horner calls for tweaks, while Wolff firmly states there's 'zero chance' of changes, reigniting their history of fiery disputes in F1.

Toto Wolf and Christian Horner during a Press Conference - Red Bull Content pool

Red Bull chief Christian Horner and Mercedes boss Toto Wolff are at odds over the new 2026 Formula 1 engine regulations.

As Max Verstappen sealed another Grand Prix win in Austria, a significant debate began brewing in the F1 paddock.

The proposed engine changes, agreed upon by all F1 teams in 2022, are now under scrutiny.

Horner argues for tweaks to the rules, stating concerns shared by others in the paddock. However, Wolff contends there's "zero chance" of these adjustments.

2026 Regulations

Honda engine

The 2026 rule changes aim for greater sustainability and innovation, pushing the automobile industry towards combating global warming.

Key highlights include tripling the electric power with the MGU-K producing around 350kW, implementing over 1,000 horsepower engines using less fuel, introducing engine-specific cost caps, and ensuring zero carbon emissions from fossil fuels.

Render of an F1 car with Ford livery

These regulations have already drawn Audi to sign up for a works team, convinced Honda to remain, and attracted Ford to partner with Red Bull on their 2026 engine.

Horner's first serve

Horner took the first swing during Friday's press conference at the Austrian Grand Prix, where he shared his concerns about the upcoming regulations.

Christian Horner walks in the Paddock prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Mexico -Mark Thompson/Getty Images/Red Bull Content Pool

"We need to ensure that we're not creating a technical Frankenstein," Horner commented, "which will require the chassis to compensate to such a degree with moveable aero and reduce the drag to such a level that the racing will be affected."

Horner argued for a slight adjustment in the power balance, with a lean towards more combustion power, stating, "A five per cent swing could resolve potential issues."

He finished off with a dire warning, "We can't afford to lose that challenge and have drivers downshifting on the straights to regenerate batteries."

Wolff's return

Never one to back down, Wolff swiftly responded to Horner's criticisms.

"That's not going to happen, zero chance, capital letters," Wolff retorted in his Saturday media briefing.

"We've developed these regulations over many years with all the auto manufacturers being involved. The best possible case that one could imagine for F1."

Toto Wolff - Credit: Mercedes AMG F1

Wolff even suggested Horner's concerns might be a smokescreen for Red Bull's internal challenges, saying, "What frightens him more maybe is that his engine programme is not coming along and that maybe he wants to kill it that way."

Horner's counterattack

Horner, having seen Verstappen secure his fifth consecutive Grand Prix victory on Sunday, was quick to respond to Wolff's allegations.

"That's typically Toto, focusing on self-performance," Horner fired back, "My interest is actually about the sport rather than self-gain.

"We all have a collective responsibility to ensure that the product is as good as it can be, otherwise we've all failed."