Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed confidence that Max Verstappen will not leave the sport despite the widespread criticism of the 2026 regulations. The new rules, which introduce cars powered by nearly an equal mix of combustion engines and electric power, have sparked intense debate about their impact on racing quality and driver engagement.
These updated technical guidelines have triggered concerns from many top drivers, including Verstappen himself, who described the new cars as “anti-racing” and compared them to a “Formula E on steroids” series. As Max Verstappen navigates this transitional phase, the significance of how these regulations impact the sport has become a pressing topic ahead of the upcoming Australian Grand Prix on March 8.
Criticism and Challenges Surrounding 2026 Cars’ Design
The revamped F1 cars for 2026 emphasize energy management and battery regeneration, with drivers needing to handle complex systems more than ever before. Fernando Alonso, a two-time world champion, joked that Aston Martin’s chef could potentially pilot the cars given the heavy reliance on energy control rather than traditional driving skills. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton added that understanding the regulations requires a university-level education.
Although the redesigned vehicles were intended to enhance close, wheel-to-wheel racing, several drivers have voiced apprehensions about overtaking due to the cars’ turbo power units taking longer to reach optimal speed. This has even led to experiments with extended starting procedures to prevent cars from stalling on the grid at race starts.
Verstappen’s Relationship with F1 Leadership and Future Commitment
Domenicali discussed his recent meeting with Verstappen, emphasizing the driver’s dedication to Formula 1 despite his pointed remarks. He highlighted that Verstappen’s communication style might sometimes be misunderstood but affirmed the champion’s love for the sport.
“I met yesterday Max because as you know Max is incredible and he has a way of saying something that could be sometimes interpreted in a certain way,”
Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1.
The CEO further explained that Verstappen plans to engage with teams and the federation to voice his concerns, aiming to preserve the driving experience’s essence without fundamentally altering the approach.
“I guarantee to you that Max wants and does care about Formula 1 more than anyone else. He has a way of putting the point that he wants to say in a certain way. But we had a very constructive meeting and he will have a very constructive meeting also with the federation and the teams to highlight what are his point of view of what he believes needs to be done to keep the driving style at the centre, without changing let’s say the approach.”
Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1.
When asked why he was confident Verstappen will remain in the sport, Domenicali responded:
“Because I have a very good relation[ship] with Max. I know him very, very well. I spend a lot of time with him. That’s the reason. Full stop. And he loves Formula 1. There’s no doubt about it.”
Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1.
Ongoing Dialogue on Potential Adjustments to the 2026 Rules
The FIA, Formula 1’s governing body, along with teams and manufacturers, continues to discuss possible tweaks to the cars during the early part of the season. These talks aim to alleviate concerns about racing quality and ensure the sport remains competitive and engaging for both drivers and fans.
Domenicali urged stakeholders and followers of the sport to maintain calm amidst the uncertainties, reminding them of similar periods of adaptation to new regulations in previous seasons such as 2014, 2020, and 2021.
“I don’t feel this anxiety, we need to stay calm because as always when there is something happening as a new regulation there’s always the [feeling] that everything is wrong,”
Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1.
He also expressed optimism that the complex technical changes would ultimately contribute to drivers’ performance improvements and faster cars as teams adapt throughout the season.
“As always, F1 as a system has always been proving that the technical solution have always helped the team to be fast and the drivers to be the best so I’m totally positive for that.”
Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1.
Domenicali noted that the initial criticisms of the new cars have already begun to evolve as drivers spend more time with them.
“I can guarantee that everyone has been very, very constructive and by the way the comment of the first day are already different from the comment of the third or fourth day of driving, and this will evolve.”
Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1.
He predicted that by mid or late season, opinions on the 2026 regulations would likely shift further as teams and drivers adapt and provide new perspectives.
“I’m pretty sure that when we’re going to sit down together middle of the year or at the end of the year, you will see a different picture of comments, a different picture of points that we need to debate because that’s normal in Formula 1.”
Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1.
Implications for the Sport and the Road Ahead
The critical reaction from drivers such as Max Verstappen, Fernando Alonso, and Lewis Hamilton highlights the challenge Formula 1 faces in balancing technological innovation with maintaining the core excitement of racing. The 2026 regulations mark a major shift towards sustainability with hybrid power units, but the sport must ensure these changes do not undermine the competitive spirit that defines it.
Domenicali’s assurances suggest strong leadership confidence that the sport can navigate this complex transition while retaining its top talents and enthralling audiences. As the season begins with the Australian Grand Prix and progresses, the ongoing dialogue and potential adjustments will be essential in shaping the future landscape of Formula 1 and the performance of drivers including Verstappen, Norris, and Alonso under the new regime.
