P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The F1 power units will undergo a major overhaul next year and fans may notice the noise will be somewhat different.
Max Verstappen shared his positive first impressions of the noise generated by the 2026 F1 power units, which were developed under new technical regulations. This season will mark the most significant change for the power units since the introduction of turbo hybrid units in 2014. Key changes include eliminating the controversial MGU-H unit and increasing electrical output to achieve a 50/50 split with the combustion engine. Verstappen expressed satisfaction with the new engine’s sound, describing it as crisp and promising. He mentioned the collaboration between Red Bull and Ford to build their own power unit, aiming to compete for a fifth F1 title after narrowly missing out to Lando Norris. Verstappen is looking forward to a break before the new season starts, focusing on his GT3 team preparation and ensuring a well-prepared programme for the upcoming challenges ahead.
