Helmut Marko has called on the FIA to amend the F1 power unit regulations, something Max Verstappen has been vocal about.
Helmut Marko has urged the FIA to make urgent changes to F1’s current regulations, calling for a reduced reliance on hybrid systems and a renewed focus on the internal combustion engine. His remarks come amid growing concern from Max Verstappen, who is now openly questioning his Formula 1 future, such is the extent to which he dislikes the new rules. Verstappen’s frustration is centred on the increased reliance on electrical energy deployment, with the 28-year-old making it clear he is not enjoying driving the new cars, with the balance between battery and engine performance leaving him dissatisfied behind the wheel. Compounding that displeasure is the difficulty of the Milton Keynes-based squad’s current package, but the four-time F1 world champion insists it would not be a critical factor if he were having more fun racing the latest Red Bull. The RB22 has proven a challenging car to extract consistent performance from, particularly on the chassis side, further adding to Verstappen’s unhappiness. Three rounds into the campaign, he has yet to finish in the top five and sits ninth in the drivers’ standings. Verstappen recently indicated he will take time to reflect on whether continuing in Formula 1 remains worthwhile, given the sacrifices required. Marko echoed those concerns, stressing that Verstappen’s criticism is not simply a reaction to the team’s struggles, but a broader issue with the direction of the sport. “On the chassis side, the deficit is quite large,” Marko mentioned, emphasizing the importance of Red Bull’s ability to turn things around despite facing challenges in the current season.
