Controversy and uncertainty are a normal part of the F1 experience, particularly during a regulation change. Still, with the season opener only a few weeks away, the 2026 cars are under extremely intense scrutiny.
From a technical standpoint, there is no denying the innovation of these 2026 machines. The use of hybrid energy and sustainable fuels are integral in helping F1 meet its sustainability targets, whilst also keeping the sport relevant to attract big manufacturers like Audi and Cadillac.
After all, the applications of the fuel and electric technologies being developed could have wide-reaching applications. This is essential for Formula 1 to remain a pioneer with regards to road car technologies.
However, the concerns being raised are from a sporting perspective – with Max Verstappen leading the opposition from drivers.
Domenicali held ‘constructive meeting’ with Verstappen
Winning an F1 Championship, beyond the achievement itself, has far-reaching consequences for the drivers who join that elite group.
One of these consequences is that, when big topics are discussed, the thoughts of World Champions have significant influence. Moreover, title-winners feel more comfortable to express opinions that newer drivers might feel uneasy in discussing.
Because of this, it is hardly a surprise that Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso have openly criticised these 2026 cars.
Hamilton and Alonso’s experience across two decades of Formula 1 gives them plenty of references to draw from when analysing how these regulations compare to those of previous decades.
Still, it must be said that Verstappen has been the most vocal critic in recent weeks. The Dutchman has left no room for doubt about his feelings regarding the 2026 regulations, which he believes are delivering less exciting cars – both for fans and drivers.
The Quadruple World Champion even compared the new F1 cars to ‘Formula E on steroids’, a quote that does not necessarily inspire confidence for the upcoming season.
Of course, these declarations – albeit extreme – are not necessarily unusual. Whenever there is a major regulation change, from 2026 to 2022 to 2014, drivers and fans alike instinctively express doubts and opposition.
It was only four years ago that drivers widely condemned the ground-effect cars at the beginning of 2022. Ironically, this initially polarising regulation set is now being used as evidence for the decline of the new 2026 machines.
Ultimately, only the first few rounds of the season will demonstrate if these new cars provide close racing.
Of course, other factors – like whether the new Pirelli tyres allow for multi-stop races – will also play a role.
Still, with DRS no longer present, wheel-to-wheel battles and overtaking are going to be under the microscope at the first round in Australia.
Verstappen’s concerns noted
From the perspective of Stefano Domenicali, however, it is important to remain calm. The F1 CEO warns against making premature conclusions about these 2026 regulations.
Domenicali believes this new generation of cars can deliver competitive battles, provided they are given some grace and breathing space – from both fans and drivers.
At the same time, the 60-year-old understands the influence of someone like Max Verstappen. In this context, Formula 1’s CEO has spoken with the Dutchman about the viability of the 2026 regulations:
“I met yesterday Max, because as you know Max is incredible – and he has a way of saying something that could be sometimes interpreted in a certain way,” Domenicali said.
“I guarantee to you that Max wants and does care about Formula 1 more than anyone else. He has a way of putting the point that he wants to say in a certain way.
“But we had a very constructive meeting. And he will have a very constructive meeting also with the federation [FIA] and the teams to highlight what are his points of view…
“[About] what he believes needs to be done to keep the driving style at the centre, without changing let’s say the approach.”
All eyes on the Australian GP
Domenicali also emphasised that speculation Verstappen could be driven out of the sport by the 2026 regulations is unfounded. The Italian is confident that Verstappen will continue in the sport for the foreseeable future.
The Dutchman himself has also rejected the possibility of retirement in the near future:
“Not liking something doesn’t mean that I don’t want to do it. As a purist and motorsport fan, I’d prefer different regulations. But this is what it is.
“I’ll try to get the maximum out of it. I love working with the team, and with our own engine.
“Those are the fun parts. Would I prefer different rules? Yes. But this is reality,” he concluded.
Given that Red Bull look relatively competitive in pre-season, Verstappen could yet find himself fighting at the very front in 2026. Should the opportunity for another title fight present itself, there can be no denying Verstappen’s desire to win.
Still, especially in the modern era of social media, there is unprecedented pressure on the new regulations to deliver a competitive and dynamic field.
In previous regulations changes, as outlined above, there was also plenty of pessimism and uncertainty.
Of course, the sport’s growing online presence means these concerns are magnified – which will undoubtedly create an element of uncertainty for the FIA and FOM [Formula One Management] heading into the first round in Australia.
In theory, all it takes is one exciting race to silence some of the more alarmist reactions from pre-season.
On the opposite side of the coin, if overtaking proves too difficult and on-track battles too infrequent, the FIA and FOM will be ready to react and ensure the 2026 regulations can provide a good racing product.