Max Verstappen has once again voiced his concerns about Formula 1’s 2026 regulations, arguing that the new cars and power units are limiting the influence of driver skill.
Speaking ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, the Red Bull driver said more people are now beginning to understand the issues he raised earlier in the season. Verstappen believes the heavy focus on energy management is making it difficult for the fastest drivers to gain an advantage.
He explained that pushing harder through corners can sometimes hurt a driver on the following straight because of how the energy systems work, meaning drivers are often forced to manage their pace rather than simply drive as fast as possible.
Verstappen also feels the new regulations have reduced the performance gap between teammates, with drivers increasingly having to follow the limits of the car’s energy management systems.
The four-time world champion also criticised the nature of some overtakes under the new rules, saying that passing another car in the middle of a straight feels artificial and does not represent the kind of racing that long-time fans want to see.
While Verstappen acknowledged that casual viewers may enjoy seeing more overtaking, he believes the sport is losing some of its traditional racing appeal as energy management and technology play a greater role in determining the outcome.
