P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen was right, F1 was wrong and ‘Formula E will soon be faster’
The implementation of new F1 regulations has stirred up controversy and protest within the sport in the days leading up to the 2026 season. Major stars in the industry, like Max Verstappen, have been vocal in their criticism of the changes, expressing concerns about the difficulty of driving the new cars and the prioritization of management over speed, resulting in slower vehicles than before. Safety issues have also been raised regarding driver struggles at the start of races, adding to the overall apprehension leading up to the Australian Grand Prix on March 8 in Melbourne. The comparison made by Verstappen likening his Red Bull driving experience to “Formula E on steroids” has caused a significant stir within the F1 community. Additionally, former F1 driver Lucas Di Grassi has raised the alarm, predicting that Formula E could surpass F1 in speed and performance, signaling a worrisome direction for the premier racing series. Despite attempts to address concerns through discussions between key figures like F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and drivers, the challenges posed by the new regulations and the potential impact on the sport’s reputation loom large over the upcoming season.
