Fernando AlonsoPlayer·Fernando Alonso, the two-time Formula 1Competition·Formula 1 world champion, has expressed profound dissatisfaction with the current generation of hybrid racing cars, stating unequivocally that they do not belong on a competitive track. His comments emerged following a challenging Friday practice session for the Monaco Grand PrixCompetition·Monaco Grand Prix in June 2026, where he described the cars as the "worst generation" he has ever driven at the iconic street circuit.
Alonso, who competes for Aston MartinTeam·Aston Martin, highlighted the inherent inconsistencies created by the hybrid power unit's battery charging system. He explained that the process of charging the battery through braking and coasting leads to significant variability in the car's engine braking. This unpredictability forces drivers to adapt constantly, sometimes experiencing less engine braking, other times more, and occasionally none at all if the battery is full. This dynamic, according to Alonso, compromises the purity of racing.
"This is probably the worst generation of cars I have ever driven in Monaco," Alonso stated. "The way you charge the battery with braking and coasting creates a lot of inconsistency in the car's engine braking. Sometimes you have less, other times more, and a third time none at all. If the battery is full, then you don't charge because the battery is full. So you don't have engine braking. It's like it's pushing you. It's just the rules. Hybrid cars should not race. It's that simple."
During the Monaco practice sessions, Alonso and his Aston MartinTeam·Aston Martin teammate Lance StrollPlayer·Lance Stroll were among the slowest on the track, with Alonso finishing 20th in the first free practice. The AMR26, powered by a HondaTeam·Honda engine, has reportedly been plagued by severe vibrations and handling issues throughout the 2025/26 season. Alonso believes the hybrid era has "lost nearly a decade, or even more, of pure racing," a sentiment that underscores his frustration with the current technical regulations.
Looking ahead, the Spanish driver remains skeptical that proposed rule adjustments, such as a 60/40 power distribution from the engines in 2027, will fundamentally alter the characteristics of the cars to his satisfaction. As of June 2026, Alonso occupies 22nd place in the 2026 Drivers' Championship with 0 points after five rounds, his best finish being 15th. Despite the team's struggles, he maintains a 5-0 lead over Stroll in their qualifying duels this season.
Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin before practice at the Monaco Grand Prix. Credit: Icon Sportswire/IMAGO
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