Max Verstappen has continued to criticise the new Formula 1 rules for 2026, raising concerns that fans may struggle to follow the complex new regulations.
Verstappen has been highly vocal in his critique of the new technical regulations for 2026, that sees a reduction in downforce and a 50:50 split between electrical and internal combustion power.
Going as far as calling the cars “Formula E on steroids” in Bahrain, the cars now require aggressive downshifting and energy management of the new batteries, dividing the drivers.
Featuring an overtake, boost, and recharge mode, the drivers will be forced to think tactically on track while racing a competitor.
But Verstappen has raised concerns the vast array of new modes available will confuse fans due to their complexity.
“It will be complicated to follow and to explain,” he told Viaplay.
“That’s the main thing. In the end it’s still a Formula 1 car – a race car – and we will still qualify and race. But it will take some getting used to for everyone.
“Also in terms of overtaking. I honestly have no idea yet how that will play out. So there are still a lot of question marks for all of us. On the other hand, that also makes it interesting, because it gives you a reason to tune in.”
A different challenge for Max Verstappen in 2026?
Explaining the challenges awaiting drivers in Australia, Max Verstappen reaffirmed the need for battery management.
“You have a certain amount of energy you can deploy over a lap, and then it depends on how good your engine is and how efficient your car is on the straights,” he said.
“So there are many elements that have to come together.
“But because everyone now has the wings open on the straights, overtaking and defending will be different. The question is how much battery you can use at that moment, which is also quite limited. Those are all things that are still question marks for us as well.”
Doubling down on his dislike of the new driving style, the Dutchman confirmed he will not be swayed, even if Red Bull dominates the new rules cycle.
“Anything you drive at the limit is difficult. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a Formula 1 car, a GT car or a road car. But some things are more enjoyable to drive than others. And the way we are currently trying to explain it to the average viewer – and even when I look at the data – I do ask myself: is this really what we want?”
“But is it the most enjoyable way? No, it’s not.
“For me this has nothing to do with results. In the end it has to remain enjoyable, and you need to have fun in what you do. Even if you’re the best at your job – whether that’s racing or something else – you still need to enjoy going to work. If you don’t enjoy going to work, it won’t last long. I think that applies to everyone. It certainly wouldn’t be nice if you didn’t enjoy doing your job.”
When asked directly how long he plans to remain in F1, Verstappen was coy. He is rumoured to be considering an exit from F1 when his current deal with Red Bull expires at the end of 2028.
“Hopefully for a long time,” he said.
“But that’s always very difficult to predict. Everything is a bit hard to assess at the moment, including where we stand. Hopefully it will all turn out better than expected.”
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