Source:REUTERS/Jakub Porzycki
[Saba Sports News] After completing a hundred laps on the first day of the preseason test in Bahrain, Max Verstappen gave a sharp critique of the new regulations for the 2026 season, stating that the new generation of power systems and car concepts lacks purity, even describing it as an enhanced version of Formula E. Verstappen said that at this stage of his career, he values the driving experience more than whether he has a championship-winning car. He admitted that he is also exploring other interests outside of the paddock and pointed out that these regulations will last for many years, suggesting that if driving enjoyment is insufficient, he might consider leaving F1 in the future.
When Verstappen’s views were relayed, Lando Norris clearly disagreed. He expressed that he finds the new car enjoyable, and although the driving feel is not as perfect as in past years and the sensation of speed has slightly diminished, this is just a normal phase at the beginning of the rule changes. Norris stated that F1 drivers, earning exorbitant salaries to drive cars and travel the world, really have nothing to complain about. Any driver can choose to do other things; no one is obligated to stay here. If Verstappen does not like the new regulations and cars, he can retire immediately.
In the editor’s opinion, rule changes are part of F1, and drivers and engineers need to understand and adapt to the cars in different ways. As an F1 driver, a more positive attitude can bring a decisive advantage in competition. Currently, it seems that Verstappen is somewhat disengaged from the new regulations.