At the Bahrain test session, Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion, sharply criticized the new Formula 1 regulations set for 2026, expressing deep dissatisfaction with the driving experience. Despite Red Bull’s promising early performance, Verstappen described the current era as “not Formula 1” and hinted at the possibility of stepping away from the sport.
Concerns Over Car Performance and Energy Management
The Dutch driver acknowledged the reliability of the new Red Bull-Ford power unit, noting,
“At least we’re not falling apart,”
and added,
“Nobody really expected us to leave the garage without exploding.”
However, he quickly shifted to highlight his unhappiness with how the cars handle on track.
Verstappen lamented his inability to drive at full throttle, saying,
“I enjoy driving flat out and, at the moment, it’s not possible,”
emphasizing how the cars’ energy management dominates performance:
“What you do has a big effect on the energy side and that’s not F1.”
Comparing Formula 1’s New Era to Formula E
Verstappen repeatedly likened the latest generation to Formula E, critiquing the way drivers must slow down in corners to conserve energy for straights. He explained,
“On certain corners and on certain circuits, it’s better to take the corner a little slower to recover more energy for the straight,”
before dismissing this approach,
“I’m sorry, but that belongs in Formula E.”
He intensified his criticism by stating,
“It feels like Formula E on steroids. For me, this isn’t Formula 1.”
The driver further described the situation as “ten times worse” than the previous ground-effect cars he had excelled in, pointing out the inefficiency of the cars on straights and their poor grip, which makes driving unenjoyable:
“To begin with, you’re very inefficient on the straights in terms of energy,”
and
“And then there’s the whole feeling in the car in terms of grip and how you have to drive it. It’s just not fun.”
Fears of Greater Issues at Upcoming Circuits
Verstappen warned that the challenges could worsen at upcoming races, particularly in Melbourne. Referring to Formula 1’s governing bodies, including Liberty Media and the FIA, he said,
“I think maybe they didn’t realize how bad it would be,”
and added,
“When we go to Melbourne, that’s where we’ll really see how much you have to lift off the throttle on a straight.”
Uncertainty Over Verstappen’s Future Despite Competitiveness
Although Red Bull appears to have a competitive car, Verstappen made it clear that winning is not enough to keep him involved if the sport’s environment remains frustrating.
“A winning car is not important to me,”
he stated.
“It should also be fun to drive. At this point of my career, I am also exploring other options outside of Formula 1.”
The racer revealed interest in GT3 and endurance racing events, particularly targeting the Nurburgring 24 Hours.
“If I look at that now, at least I’m allowed to drive full throttle there without having to look at my battery,”
he said.
“I want to do it. We’re working on making it happen.”
Diverse Opinions Among Fellow Drivers
Verstappen’s harsh critique was echoed partially by teammate Sergio Perez, who highlighted the uncontrollable nature of the cars:
“Every lap is different. We have variations of half a second to a second without understanding exactly why.”
However, not all drivers share Verstappen’s viewpoint. Lando Norris responded calmly to the criticism, stating,
“A lot of fun. I really enjoyed it.”
He added,
“If he wants to retire, he can retire. F1 changes all the time.”
Norris continued,
“We get paid a stupid amount of money to drive, so you can’t really complain at the end of the day. It’s a challenge, but it’s a good, fun challenge.”
Verstappen Stands Firm on His Viewpoint
Despite some disagreement, Verstappen remains firm on his opinions about the sport’s direction.
“I know many people won’t be thrilled when I say all this,”
he acknowledged,
“But I always say what I think.”
