Stefano Domenicali responded ahead of the summer break to the controversy surrounding the current F1 regulations. Especially from the drivers’ field, there was a lot of criticism after the Grands Prix of Silverstone and Spa-Francorchamps about the new cars and the emphasis on energy management. Domenicali says he understands the drivers’ opinions but at the same time points to the positive reactions from fans, who, according to him, have little to do with technical details.
Midway through the 2026 F1 season, the new technical regulations still cause division. The cars make much more use of electric drive this year and emphasize energy management, which has led to considerable criticism especially among the drivers. However, research by FOM shows that the fans are much more positive. 66 percent of viewers rate the races as ‘good’ or ‘excellent’, compared to 60 percent in 2025.
‘Fans don’t want technical details’
“A lot is happening on the track and people love it,” Domenicali assured during a press moment after the Hungarian GP. “They are focused on what happens on the track and have no interest in technology. I had an incredibly interesting conversation with George Lucas (film director and the mind behind Star Wars, ed.) on Saturday. He was in Hungary and gave me a fantastic insight into how new fans view Formula 1. The vast majority just want to see what happens on the track. They are not interested in technical details.”
Still, there is much dissatisfaction among the drivers about the technology. Max Verstappen is one of the most well-known critics of the F1 regulations. He described the new way of racing already after the first meters as ‘Formula E on steroids’. Other opponents of the new cars include Carlos Sainz, Sergio Pérez, and Fernando Alonso. “Driving skill no longer matters,” sighed the Spaniard after the British GP. Alonso – the longest-serving F1 driver of all time – also described the race weekend as ‘a sad affair’.
‘Championship is at a peak’
Domenicali acknowledges the criticism but emphasizes that Formula 1 as a whole is in a strong position. “I think the situation we are in now is really great,” he said. “The championship has really reached a peak when you look at the number of followers. People who come to the circuit – whether they are old or new fans – appreciate what we do.” The Italian believes there should be room for criticism but warns against too negative a tone. “We are not here to silence drivers. I mean, the beauty of our sport is that everyone can have an opinion, but an opinion remains an opinion,” he said.
According to Domenicali, the greater emphasis on electrification was also necessary when the current rules were developed. “I come back to the fact that this change had a reason, and that was a crucial reason.” With the promise of more electrification, Formula 1 has attracted important new engine manufacturers, including Ford, Audi, and eventually also Cadillac. Still, he wants to work on the criticism. “I just prefer to discuss things behind closed doors. I have a lot of respect for our drivers, but they also have to understand that we are walking this path together. Fans always have priority. I think the situation with all parties involved today is very strong and solid. So we must look ahead and together ensure that the sport continues to grow in the right way.”
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