Max Verstappen has expressed his early impressions of the new Formula 1 cars introduced under the latest regulations, describing the driving experience as feeling like “Formula E on steroids.” The four-time world champion made these remarks following the opening pre-season testing session in Bahrain, where he posted the second-fastest lap with the new Red Bull RB21.
The Dutch driver’s performance has raised expectations about Red Bull’s competitiveness this year, with many viewing the team as a strong title contender. However, Verstappen also acknowledged that adapting to these major regulation changes represents one of the most significant shifts he has encountered during his Formula 1 career.
Challenges and Adjustments with the New Driving Style
When asked about how the new cars feel behind the wheel, Verstappen was candid in his response. He admitted that driving them is not currently very enjoyable, emphasizing that much of his effort involves managing complex elements rather than pure racing thrills.
“To drive? To drive, not a lot of fun, to be honest,”
Verstappen told media, including Motorsport Week.
He elaborated on the difference from previous F1 models, explaining the sensation feels less like traditional Formula 1 and more akin to an exaggerated form of Formula E, where management and energy efficiency dominate driving style.
“As a driver, the feeling is not very Formula 1-like. It feels a bit more like Formula E on steroids. But the rules are the same for everyone, so you have to deal with that, and that’s also not my problem, because I’m all for that, equal chances. I don’t mind that, but as a pure driver, I enjoy driving flat out, and at the moment you cannot drive like that. There’s a lot going on.”
Commitment Despite Frustrations with Driving Experience
Even though Verstappen has voiced his dissatisfaction with how the current cars require such a different approach, he also stressed his determination to perform well and support his team’s ambitions. His focus remains on maximizing his efforts despite the changes in driving dynamics and energy management demands.
“A lot of what you do as a driver in terms of inputs have a massive effect on the energy side of things,”
he explained.
“For me, that’s just not Formula 1. Maybe it’s then better to drive Formula E, because that’s all about energy, efficiency and management, and that’s what they stand for. Driving-wise, it’s not so fun, but at the same time, I also know what is at stake with the team, our own engine, and seeing the excitement of the people.”
“Of course, when I sit in the car, I will always give it my very best. They know that. But the excitement level is not so high to drive.”
Implications for the 2024 Season and F1’s Evolution
Verstappen’s reflections underline a tension between technological regulation changes aimed at improving competition and the drivers’ desire for pure, dynamic racing. His remarks also highlight the ongoing challenges teams face in adapting strategies around energy management and efficiency under the current rule set.
As the pre-season progresses, Verstappen’s ability to master these cars may prove crucial in shaping Red Bull’s championship bid. Meanwhile, his honest feedback could influence how teams and regulators evaluate driver experience alongside technical innovation in Formula 1’s evolving landscape.
