Verstappen verdict: Champion compares 2026 cars to rival series

Max Verstappen has likened Formula 1’s 2026 generation of cars to “Formula E on steroids,” claiming the increased focus on energy management has stripped away the fun.

The four-time world champion offered a withering assessment of the sport’s future direction following extensive testing in Barcelona and Bahrain.

A sweeping regulation overhaul scheduled for 2026 will introduce power units featuring a near-even split between internal combustion and battery power.

‘Not very Formula 1-like’

This technical shift places a premium on energy harvesting under braking, a change the Dutchman believes fundamentally alters the DNA of grand prix racing.

“Not a lot of fun, to be honest. I would say the right word is management.”

Speaking candidly about the experience inside the cockpit, the 27-year-old drew a direct parallel to the all-electric championship.

“As a driver, the feeling is not very Formula 1-like. It feels a bit more like Formula E on steroids.”

While accepting the rules apply equally to all teams on the grid, the Red Bull driver lamented the loss of raw speed in favour of efficiency.

The end of driving ‘flat out’

Verstappen emphasized that tactical deployment of electrical energy has replaced the traditional approach of pushing the machinery to its absolute limit.

He suggested that the heavy input management required behind the wheel contradicts what he believes the pinnacle of motorsport should represent.

“But as a pure driver, I enjoy driving flat out. And at the moment, you cannot drive like that. There’s a lot going on.”

The dominant force in recent F1 history questioned the identity of the new regulations given the drastic change in driving style.

“Maybe it’s better to drive Formula E, right? Because that’s all about energy efficiency and management. That’s what they stand for.”

Commitment to the cause

Despite his reservations regarding the driving experience, the reigning champion insisted his competitive fire remains undimmed.

With Red Bull Powertrains developing their own engine for the new era, Verstappen acknowledged the wider responsibility resting on his shoulders.

“Of course, when I sit in the car, I will always give it my very best. They know that. But the excitement level is not so high.”