[Saba Sports News] The 38-year-old former German Formula 1 driver Nico Hülkenberg has directly responded to critics of the 2026 F1 new regulations in an interview with The Drive, stating: “If you don’t like watching it, then don’t watch it.”
Hülkenberg said Formula 1 is inherently a technology-driven racing series and must keep pace with the trends of the times. Looking back at the automotive industry five or ten years ago, today’s landscape is completely different, as the entire industry has undergone tremendous changes. F1’s recent sweeping rule reforms reflect the shifting industry landscape and also represent the series’ shift toward greater sustainability. Many traditional fans remain fond of old-school Formula 1 cars and nostalgic for the roar of V10 and V12 naturally aspirated engines, yet the reality is that the era can never return.
Hülkenberg further elaborated his views, pointing out that sustainability was once a nationwide hot topic. Though its popularity has faded slightly nowadays, F1 and its rule-making body have continuously revised regulations to keep up with current development trends. To maintain its leading position in the industry and sustain a mature, formal commercial and event entertainment operation model, Formula 1 must embrace the path of sustainable development.
In my opinion, Hülkenberg’s rebuttal to critics of the new F1 regulations reflects a rational, forward-looking and pragmatic attitude. He supports technological innovation while acknowledging race quality, standing in stark contrast to the resistant sentiment held by some other drivers.