Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Max Verstappen admitted he feels “completely empty” following a difficult qualifying session for the 2026 Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park. The Red Bull Racing driver also voiced strong dissatisfaction with Formula 1’s new regulations introduced for the season.
Across the three practice sessions in Melbourne, Verstappen appeared capable of fighting for a top-five grid position. However, his first serious push lap in Q1 ended abruptly when the car lost control under braking at the end of the start-finish straight.
The Red Bull machine suddenly spun as Verstappen braked for Turn 1, sending the four-time world champion sliding across the gravel before hitting the barrier. As a result, he will start Sunday’s race from 20th position on the grid.
Beyond the crash itself, Verstappen highlighted his broader frustration with the current technical regulations, which he believes prevent drivers from extracting performance in a natural way and require extensive management even over a single qualifying lap.
“You just can't drive naturally,” Verstappen told media following the session.
When asked about his emotions after the disappointing qualifying result, Verstappen did not express anger or frustration, instead revealing a sense of detachment from the situation.
“Whether I had been at the front or where I am now, in terms of emotion and feeling, I am completely empty. I'm not enjoying myself at all,” Verstappen said.
The Dutch driver explained that the concerns had already emerged during simulator work and pre-season testing in Barcelona and Bahrain. According to Verstappen, the early signs suggested that adapting to the new regulations would be challenging throughout the season.
“In the sim, it already felt bad, too, to the point where you just don't want to drive anymore. I've already explained that, and it's just the same now,” he said.
Verstappen also confirmed he is mentally preparing for what could become a long and demanding season. While he acknowledged that drivers can still influence performance, he suggested the role now resembles managing limitations rather than purely driving at the limit.
“You have to make do with what you have, and what you have is not much now,” Verstappen concluded.
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