Naomi Schiff, former W Series driver and Sky Sports Formula 1 analyst, said the mental load on current Formula 1 drivers is probably higher than it has ever been.
On the Up To Speed podcast, Schiff described the many in-cockpit distractions and the volume of information drivers must process, from braking points and strategy to overtaking and energy management.
The new 2026 rules — including roughly a 50:50 split between internal combustion and electric power, active aerodynamics, Overtake Mode and a boost button — have added tactical complexity, and Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson said he felt "mentally drained" after the Japanese Grand Prix.
Schiff added that straights used to serve as moments of mental and physical recovery, and Formula 1 teams and drivers are adapting to the increased cognitive demands during races.
This summary is based on coverage by Motorsport.
Read the full article at Motorsport.
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