Lando Norris Responds to Max Verstappen F1 2026 Criticism

Formula 1, Sportrik Media – Reigning world champion Lando Norris has responded to sharp criticism from Max Verstappen regarding the characteristics of the 2026 Formula 1 machinery following the Barcelona shakedown and the opening two days of pre-season testing in Bahrain.

The 2026 technical regulations introduce a fundamental shift in the power unit architecture, featuring a 50:50 split between internal combustion and electrical energy alongside the removal of the MGU-H. The increased emphasis on energy deployment and recovery management across a lap has become a central topic of discussion since testing began.

Scuderia Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton remarked that the new-generation cars felt “slower than GP2”. Meanwhile, the Red Bull Racing driver described the 2026 package as “Formula E on steroids” and labelled the regulations “anti-racing”, citing the intensity of energy management requirements compared to traditional wheel-to-wheel characteristics.

Representing McLaren Racing, Norris acknowledged that the 2026 cars “feel like F2” in certain areas, particularly in braking approach and electrical deployment. However, he framed the changes as part of Formula 1’s technical evolution, requiring adaptation in both driving technique and engineering strategy.

“We get paid a stupid amount of money to drive, so you can't really complain at the end of the day.”

“Any driver can go and find something else to do. It's not like he has to be here, or any driver has to be here.”

“It's a challenge, but it's a good, fun challenge for the engineers, for the drivers.”

“You have to drive it in a different way, understand and manage things differently, but I still get to drive cars and travel the world and have a lot of fun.”

“So, nothing to complain about.”

The first Bahrain test concludes on Friday, with a second session scheduled for 18–20 February. A clearer competitive assessment of the 2026 regulations is expected to emerge as teams finalise development directions ahead of the new season.