Formula E CEO Calls Hybrid F1 'Nonsensical' and Predicts a Return to Tradition

Formula 1's introduction of hybrid engines for the 2026 season has created significant divisions among fans, teams, and even drivers. Some, like seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, support the change, while others, such as four-time world champion Max Verstappen, are highly critical. Electric car racing is not a new concept in motorsports, with Formula E having embraced it since 2014. Formula E stands as the most prestigious single-seater championship featuring electric vehicles, officially recognized as an FIA World Championship since 2020, despite being considerably less popular than F1.

Formula E recently made its inaugural stop in Madrid, Spain. This event marked the sixth round of its 2025/26 season, which commenced in December 2025 in São Paulo and is set to conclude in London in August 2026. Alberto Longo, co-founder and CEO of Formula E, recently spoke about the comparisons being drawn between Formula E and the upcoming F1 regulations. He expressed his bewilderment, stating he "doesn't understand why F1 is moving increasingly closer to our way of racing," and even ventured to predict that F1 would eventually revert to its traditional format.

"When we established this championship, our goal was to attract a new audience to motorsport with races unlike anything seen before," Longo explained. "Ultimately, both championships are converging on the same type of racing: energy efficiency, rather than pure performance, which is what motorsport fans have historically valued. We, however, offer something entirely distinct."

"This hybrid F1 makes no sense because it proposes a type of racing we've been doing for 12 years," Longo added. "It's proving somewhat complex for them; even the drivers don't understand it, which is why we're seeing criticism from those involved. To hear Verstappen speak about his own championship in such a way is something F1 cannot tolerate. Therefore, I believe the situation will reverse; they will return to combustion engines and stay true to their traditional racing format."