David Croft relives Stevenage to Times Square as F1 2026 looms

"Did you ever think we'd go from Stevenage to Times Square? It's insane, isn't it. I never thought the sport would be able to do this. Not when I first started out. That exchange between David Croft and Lewis Hamilton at the F1 movie premiere in Times Square captures the remarkable evolution of Formula One from its modest origins to global entertainment phenomenon."

"I've done 20 years in Formula One, and this year, with these new rules and regulations, is a massive challenge. I think once we get into the racing we're not going to see much of a change, as fans of the sport, albeit there'll be a lot going on that isn't as visible. Croft expresses confidence that despite radical technical transformations, the fundamental racing experience will remain familiar to viewers."

"From smaller cars with less downforce and grip to a shift to a near 50-50 split between internal combustion and electric power, this is still F1 - but not as you've known it. The 2026 regulations represent the most radical, comprehensive and fundamental overhaul in the sport's 75-year history, fundamentally reshaping vehicle performance characteristics."

David Croft, F1's lead commentator, reflects on the sport's evolution from his Hertfordshire roots to Times Square prominence during the F1 movie premiere. As the 2026 championship begins in Australia, the sport undergoes its most comprehensive overhaul in 75 years. The new regulations feature smaller cars with less downforce and grip, alongside a shift toward near 50-50 hybrid power distribution between internal combustion and electric engines. Despite these fundamental changes, Croft believes the racing experience for fans will remain recognizable, though significant technical transformations occur behind the scenes. His 20 years in Formula One position him to guide audiences through understanding these complex regulatory shifts.

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