Four-time World Champion Max Verstappen faced the media for the first time this season in Bahrain and, without holding back, criticized the Formula 1 cars, which, in his view, after the new regulations, are now closer to Formula E.
“This is unworthy of Formula 1,” he said bluntly to the gathered journalists.
The Dutch driver believes that the greater emphasis on energy conservation has shifted the sport away from the core essence of elite motorsport.
As a driver, I will always adapt, but now we are only dealing with conservation and management. This makes no sense
In certain corners, drivers are now forced to slow down to preserve battery charge, which creates a significant problem and one that experts had already predicted. Racing decisions are increasingly dictated by systems and strategy rather than outright speed, according to Verstappen.
Sorry, but this belongs in Formula E. Formula 1 should be about driving as fast as possible, but that’s not what we’re doing now. This is more like Formula E on steroids.
Another blunt statement from Verstappen, currently without doubt the top driver in the paddock, is sure to irritate F1’s leadership.
I don’t enjoy these cars at all. Some won’t like what I’m saying, but I don’t care. I never accepted these rules.
He also indicated that his future in F1 is no longer guaranteed. The new regulations, which discourage flat-out racing, could push him toward leaving sooner.
When you’ve already won everything, there’s no need to continue. There are many other fun things I can do. These changes don’t make me want to stick around much longer. I’ll just race somewhere else. We can even set up a tent and have a barbecue, and it’ll still be fun.
Verstappen also highlighted a problem with the long-term nature of the current rules, noting he doesn’t expect a quick fix.
I don’t have to do this anymore. It’s my passion, of course, but the car isn’t fun to drive anymore. Maybe they’ll tweak the rules a little and things will improve slightly, but the main problems will remain.
Drivers will return to Sakhir next week for the last pre-season test before the first race from February 18 to 20. The opening lights go out in Melbourne on March 8. Last week of F1 Testing will be live streamed on westreamf1.com.
