Jun.14 (GMM) Jean Todt has played down concerns about Formula 1’s controversial new 2026 regulations.
Many figures in the paddock have slammed the new rules package since it debuted this year, with the electric component being diluted for 2027 and 2018 and plans already shaping up for normally aspirated, V8-powered future.
Former Ferrari boss and FIA president Todt, however, sees the situation differently.
“Many talk about a revolution in Formula 1, as if we were facing something completely different from the past,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport in Barcelona.
“But for me, that’s not the case. It’s an evolution, not a revolution. There have been changes that have led to great successes, which I’m happy about, but the heart of Formula 1 remains the same.”
Todt, 80, is no longer a regular visitor to grands prix, although he attended the Spanish GP weekend for a Pirelli event.
Asked if there was anything he misses from Formula 1’s past, the 80-year-old Frenchman was unequivocal.
“No, because I don’t want to indulge in nostalgia. It makes no sense, and I’ve never liked it.
“Life is like a movie – things evolve, change, and those who stop following the changes find themselves lost.”
Todt’s tenure at Ferrari brought unprecedented success, with Michael Schumacher winning five consecutive world championships between 2000 and 2004.
Looking back on that period, he said one of his greatest satisfactions is seeing so many former colleagues now occupying senior positions throughout Formula 1.
“Seeing many of the guys who worked with me now have earned such important positions in Formula 1,” he said on Saturday. “Seeing Stefano Domenicali at the helm of F1 is incredibly proud, as is Laurent Mekies at the helm of Red Bull, Mattia Binotto at Audi, Andrea Stella at McLaren.
“I don’t take credit for them, but I’m happy to have shared part of their journey. Seeing them competitive and well-prepared in what they do today reminds me of how important the journey we shared was.”
Todt declined to assess Ferrari’s current situation.
“I prefer not to talk about it, because there’s no point in making comparisons,” he said.
“Here in the paddock, walking past their hospitality area, I noticed some of the team members who smiled at me as soon as they saw me. It’s special for me to have been able to contribute to this great story.”
Todt also praised runaway championship leader Kimi Antonelli, whose remarkable start to 2026 has made him Italy’s first realistic title contender for many years.
“I don’t know him personally, but he’s an enormously talented guy, and his results speak for themselves.
“Of course, credit must also be given to the car he drives, because Mercedes is fantastic this year, but things always come together in F1 – a great driver in a great car.
“Last year he struggled more, but he’s developed in the right way and has handled a difficult situation psychologically very well. He’s polite, kind, and humble, so I extend my sincere best wishes to him.
“I think it’s very good for you in Italy, because you’ve been dreaming of having a top-level driver for a very long time, and now you finally have him.”