Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu has criticised a proposal that could force customer teams like Haas to become full constructors within three years if they finish fifth or higher in the constructors' championship.
The American outfit currently outsources a significant portion of its car's components to manufacturers such as Dallara, Ferrari, and now even Toyota. Similarly, RB has been taking advantage of its close ties with Red Bull Racing to source as many parts as regulations allow.
However, teams like Aston Martin, Alpine, and Williams are pushing back, advocating for stricter rules requiring teams to design and manufacture more of their own components.
According to Auto Motor und Sport, the 2026 regulations may include a rule requiring customer teams to transition into full constructors if they achieve a top-five finish in the championship. While the rule has yet to be finalised, it is expected to pass with majority support.
Komatsu has strongly opposed the idea, claiming it would harm smaller teams. "It would be a killer for the small teams," he said. "If Formula 1 wants as many teams as possible to be competitive, then we will all reject this rule. What better thing could happen to the sport than David winning against Goliath?"
He also questioned the logic behind the proposal, arguing that fans care more about the on-track action than the origin of parts. "What fan cares whether the gearbox or the suspension comes from Ferrari or from us?" he asked.
Komatsu dismissed suggestions that customer teams enjoy an unfair advantage, pointing out that the budget cap already accounts for purchased components. "We are credited with a nominal equivalent value in the budget cap for the components we buy," he explained, "and it is so high that we have no advantage."
