Max Verstappen has launched a blistering attack on Formula 1's new generation of cars, warning they will 'eventually ruin the sport'. The Dutchman's outburst came after a disastrous Chinese Grand Prix weekend, where he was forced to retire with 10 laps remaining due to a coolant failure in the energy recovery system.
The four-time world champion, who finished ninth in the Sprint and failed to score points in the main race, did not hold back in his post-race interviews. 'I think [FOM and the FIA] understand where we are coming from as drivers,' he said. 'But if you just speak to most of the drivers, it's not what we like. I don't think it's what the real F1 fans like. Maybe some fans like it, but they don't understand racing.'
Verstappen has been one of the most vocal critics of the 2026 regulations, which introduced hybrid engines relying heavily on electrical energy. The traditional DRS has been replaced by an 'overtake mode', and battery management has become crucial, leading to more overtaking but what critics call artificial racing. 'Hopefully we can get rid of this... It will eventually ruin the sport. It will come and bite them back in the a**,' he added.
The Red Bull driver acknowledged that some teams and drivers may be happy with the current state of affairs because they are winning. 'When you have an advantage, why would you give that up? Because you never know if you're going to have a good car again,' he said. 'But it's political. Some people feel they have the advantage now, and, of course, they want to use that, rightly.'
Verstappen's RB22 suffered a coolant failure in the ERS, forcing Red Bull to end his race prematurely to prevent further damage. The team confirmed the issue after the race. Despite the setback, Verstappen has called for dialogue to find solutions, though he admitted it would be difficult to get everyone to agree.
