MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Max Verstappen and Oracle Red Bull Racing have reiterated their concerns over Formula 1’s 2026 technical regulations during the second week of pre-season testing in Bahrain 2026. The reigning world champion previously described the concept as “Formula E on steroids” and maintained that position despite the commercial sensitivities surrounding the new era.
The Dutch driver confirmed he had received no negative feedback from senior figures after his remarks gained traction across the paddock. His assessment is rooted in simulator work dating back to 2023, when early projections of the 2026 package were evaluated. With the removal of the MGU-H, turbo behaviour has fundamentally changed, influencing start procedures, energy deployment, and the aggressive downshifting now evident during testing.
“No, I haven’t heard anything. And I haven’t really been concerned with that either. I just gave my honest opinion, and I think that should be allowed.”
Verstappen indicated that several drivers privately share similar views, although Lando Norris of McLaren F1 Team has publicly expressed appreciation for the characteristics of the new-generation cars. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella highlighted three key areas of concern after the opening test: the start procedure without MGU-H support, significant closing speeds due to lift-and-coast, and the increasing complexity of overtaking under the active aerodynamics configuration.
“Regarding the last two points, yes. But I already said that back in 2023. As for the start, that’s the choice you make with the turbo. If someone has a problem with it, they can start from the pitlane.”
From a technical standpoint, the reduced drag with open rear wings on the straights makes slipstreaming less effective. When the aero elements close at the end of the straight, the sudden surge in downforce can trigger heavy bottoming, affecting chassis stability and tyre load transfer. Verstappen suggested the current energy management philosophy may lack efficiency and that only incremental improvements are likely unless the regulations are fundamentally revised.
The governing body, the FIA, confirmed on Wednesday that no immediate major regulatory changes are planned, citing the immaturity of the initial data set. The federation warned that premature amendments could introduce instability ahead of the season opener. As Formula 1 enters its new technical cycle, the competitive balance and on-track dynamics of the 2026 concept will face their first definitive test when the championship officially begins in Bahrain.
Baca Juga
Max Verstappen desak FIA hapus dominasi baterai F1 2026 di Bahrain, soroti pembagian 50-50 tenaga hybrid dan beda identitas dengan Formula E.
Max Verstappen kritik regulasi F1 2026 di Bahrain, soroti turbo tanpa MGU-H, aero aktif, serta dampaknya pada start dan peluang menyalip.
Lewis Hamilton dan Max Verstappen menepis anggapan start F1 2026 berbahaya, sementara FIA menguji prosedur baru di Bahrain.
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