Red Bull’s Decline, Audi’s Exit: F1 2026 Surprises and Fan Reactions

Three races into the 2026 Formula 1 campaign, a Filmogaz.com panel has identified several early surprises. The observations cover on-track performance, technical changes, and a shock staffing move.

Fan backlash and lead changes

Fans have expressed strong reactions to the new racing format. Many complained about the number and nature of lead changes this season.

The sport removed DRS and introduced battery-dependent passing. That change has produced more lead swaps than many recall. Critics have likened some moments to video-game tactics, while others praise the spectacle.

Cadillac’s strong debut

Cadillac returned to the grid with Graeme Lowdon at the helm. The team runs as a customer entry for Dan Towriss’ operation.

After three rounds, five of six Cadillac cars reached the chequered flag. That reliability aided data collection and accelerated learning.

There were setbacks. Valtteri Bottas retired in Australia due to a fuel-system fault. In China, Sergio Perez caused contact between two Cadillacs at the start. The drivers moved on and focused on upgrades.

Perez finished on the lead lap in Japan, helped by a Safety Car appearance. He placed ahead of a Williams and an Aston Martin on merit.

Cadillac plans upgrades to the MAC26 at Miami. The team looks capable of scoring points soon.

Red Bull struggles early

Pre-season testing had RBPT engines widely praised. Max Verstappen’s decision to stay with Red Bull looked sound.

The reality on track has been different. Verstappen spun at the first corner during Q1 in Australia. Since then, the team has struggled to match expectations.

Coverage has focused on Red Bull’s Decline and on Audi’s Exit: F1 2026 Surprises and Fan Reactions among followers. Rivals, including Ferrari, have produced usable cars this year.

Qualifying woes

The new energy-management rules have altered qualifying. Drivers no longer extract maximum performance over a single lap.

Success now often hinges on battery strategy and driver negotiation with engineers. Many observers describe qualifying as less thrilling than before.

Teams aim to address this at the April technical meetings. Restoring more one-lap aggression is a priority ahead of Miami.

Jonathan Wheatley’s departure

A major off-track shock was Jonathan Wheatley leaving Audi. He had overseen Sauber’s transition into the Audi project.

The announcement surprised many paddock figures. Wheatley had talked about building foundations and guiding long-term progress.

Reports link him to Aston Martin as a potential next employer. Any hiring club would need to wait out a gardening-leave period.

What to watch next

• How Cadillac’s upgrades affect their pace in Miami.
• Red Bull’s response to early-season difficulties.
• Outcomes from the April meetings on qualifying rules.
• Any new developments around Wheatley’s future role.

Filmogaz.com will continue to follow the unfolding storylines. Expect updated analysis as the season develops.