Max Verstappen believes new regulations in Formula 1 are leaving drivers across the grid unable to “make a difference” throughout the races.
2026 saw the introduction of a more electric-focused era in F1. The regulatory shift forced drivers to adapt to a new style of racing that was far more unfamiliar than prior changes. Importantly, this season, drivers have had to drive with a greater focus on their battery deployment levels. If they exhaust their battery too early, they leave themselves a sitting duck for their rivals behind.
An onboard system controls how drivers deploy their energy. Theoretically making their lives easier. But Verstappen seems to suggest otherwise. The Dutchman revealed that the systems are incredibly flawed, making it difficult for drivers to gain a competitive advantage.
“With your throttle input, by being faster sometimes in the corners, you lose more on the straights afterwards,” Verstappen told media.
“Which is not how it should be. I mean, in every kind of racing series, if you gain time in the corners, that’s just free lap-time.
“You would then not be penalised on the straight normally, whereas now you really have to think about: ‘Oh, I have to use a different gear.’ Or a different braking technique, or the way you go back on the throttle.
Max Verstappen laments drivers being unable to make “a difference”
Verstappen doubled down, claiming the systems almost prevent drivers from “making a difference” during F1 races.
“You need to be different, and basically it is just neutralising a lot of lap time. And that’s why, I guess, in general, you see a lot of close battles between teams and teammates. Because you just cannot make a difference.
“Like you’re not allowed to make a difference,” Verstappen explained.
“Because it will just penalise you on the next straight.”
Verstappen currently sits sixth in the standings, as the Dutchman prepares for his final home race at the iconic Zandvoort circuit next week.
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