In the world of Formula 1, political correctness rarely has a place, and Max Verstappen has understood this well. In Bahrain, after a day of testing, the reigning world champion expressed his dissatisfaction with the new regulations, calling them ineffective and unengaging. So much so that he does not hesitate to compare the current situation to Formula E on steroids. Ouch!
A bitter observation after testing
During the second day of testing in Bahrain, Max Verstappen did not mince his words. In a meeting with the press, he first pointed out that the new technical package was, in his opinion, very far from the spirit of Formula 1. For him, it’s a bit like taking the best of electric technology and mixing it with performances that lack excitement.
He did not hesitate to add that last year he hated driving the 2026 car so much that he asked his team, Red Bull, to stop testing it in the simulator. “The real sensations are the same as in the simulator,” he confided, revealing a palpable frustration with these new norms that seem to stifle the joy of driving.
A disappointing driving experience
Max did not hide his exasperation: “At one point, I deliberately said I didn’t want to drive it in the simulator anymore. The sensations were so bad compared to the previous year that I thought: you know what, I’m just going to focus on last year’s car.” His response suggests that for him, emotion and feel behind the wheel are essential in this sport.
He even compared the current cars to those of the previous generation, stating that “it was still ten times better.” His criticism focuses on the inefficiency of the new cars in a straight line, where he believes there is a real lack of energy. “This circuit isn’t too bad, but on other tracks, it could become a real drama,” he added, raising a crucial question about the direction Formula 1 is taking.
“Sorry, but this is for Formula E”
For Verstappen, everything seems artificial in this new regulation. He mentioned that drivers now have to adopt a more tactical approach. “In some corners and on certain circuits, it’s better to take a corner a bit slower to recover more energy for the straight. Sorry, but this is for Formula E,” he said, highlighting an incongruity in the new racing strategies.
His vision is clear: he remains passionate about Formula 1, but he is starting to wonder if it is still worth continuing in this framework. “We’re still doing Formula 1, and that’s great. But once you’ve already won and accomplished everything, then it’s not really necessary to stay indefinitely,” he stated with disarming frankness.
Max’s fans may worry, as it seems his gaze is turning to other horizons: “I will certainly do other things, maybe as soon as this year.” With a wink, he even joked about the possibility of having a barbecue by the track!
The quest for authentic driving sensations
Max Verstappen does not hide his desire for authentic driving. “If the car isn’t enjoyable to drive, then I focus on other things. I’m working hard to develop the GT3 car,” he stated. For him, the joy of driving must take precedence over the constraints imposed by the new rules.
He expressed a certain indifference regarding his future in Formula 1, indicating that his happiness comes first from the joy of driving. “I think they may not have realized how bad it would be,” he added. His frankness could shock some in the paddock, but for Verstappen, it’s a matter of honesty.
“Some won’t be happy with my words”
Being the first driver to speak so freely about his concerns regarding the new regulation, Verstappen knows he risks upsetting some sensitivities. “Of course, some won’t be happy with my words today. But in the end, I don’t care,” he retorted, showing a certain detachment in the face of potential criticism.
It is clear that Max Verstappen will not be influenced by those who might blame him for his words. He reminded that it was not him who designed these new rules: “I didn’t make the regulation, so they shouldn’t be angry with me for something I didn’t create.”
With his frank personality and passion for the sport, Verstappen continues to be a fascinating figure in the world of Formula 1. While some question the future of the championship with these new rules, he remains true to his values and his love for driving.
