Max Verstappen warns F1 fans that the sport will become harder to follow starting with the new regulations. In 2026, the cars will rely more than ever on electric power and managing the energy supply. The question is whether the broadcasts can also clearly convey that to the viewers at home. Verstappen has already expressed criticism of the new F1 regulations in recent weeks, although he emphasizes that it must first be seen how they work out in practice.
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During a Viaplay press moment, Verstappen was naturally asked about the upcoming season. Next week, the Dutchman will be in Melbourne for the opening round of the championship. “It will be complicated to follow and explain,” he warned. “That is mainly the point. For the rest, it remains just a racing car and there will be qualifying and racing. But it will take some getting used to. Also in terms of overtaking maneuvers, I have no idea yet how that will work out in practice. So there are still many question marks. That also makes it interesting in a way, because that will make everyone watch.”
Wait for the first race
After his first test laps, Verstappen already hinted that the new direction of Formula 1 does not satisfy him. Does he see no pleasure in the challenge of a new driving style? “It is always difficult to drive on the limit, regardless of the car,” he explained. “But some cars are simply more fun to drive than others. The way we are trying to explain it to the average viewer now – or when I look at the data myself – I wonder: ‘Should we even want this?’ In any case, it is not the most fun way of driving,” Verstappen assured.
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“For me, that has nothing to do with the results,” he added. Red Bull performed well during the test weeks, but is not yet considered the favorite. “Ultimately, it has to remain fun; you have to have pleasure in what you do,” said Verstappen. “Even if you are the best in your field, you have to want to do it. If you go to work reluctantly, you won’t last long. That applies to everyone.” Does that say something about an approaching retirement for the four-time world champion? “Hopefully I will continue to drive in Formula 1 for a long time,” he concluded. “But that is hard to say. Everything is a bit of a wait-and-see at the moment, including exactly where we stand now. Hopefully, it will all turn out fine in the end.”
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View the 2026 F1 calendar here
