Max Verstappen demolishes "anti-racing" and "not enjoyable" 2026 F1 vehicles

Max Verstappen slammed System 1’s new era of vehicles after sampling the 2026 Crimson Bull in Bahrain testing, saying they’re “not enjoyable to drive” and “FE on steroids”.

On day two of the primary three-day Bahrain take a look at, Verstappen hosted his first correct press convention of 2026, having accomplished 136 laps on Wednesday earlier than handing over the automotive to team-mate Isack Hadjar right this moment.

Verstappen and Crimson Bull impressed the remainder of the paddock with their tempo and power deployment, however the Dutchman says he was extra involved with what the brand new era of vehicles is prefer to drive, with an excellent larger give attention to power administration.

“To drive [they are] not plenty of enjoyable, to be sincere,” he stated. “I’d say the precise phrase is administration. It isn’t very System 1-like. It feels a bit extra like System E on steroids. However the guidelines are the identical for everybody, so you need to take care of that.

“As a pure driver, I take pleasure in driving flat out and in the intervening time, you can’t drive like that. There’s lots happening. A whole lot of what you do as a driver, when it comes to inputs, has an enormous impact on the power aspect of issues. For me, that is simply not System 1. Perhaps it is then higher to drive System E, proper? As a result of that is all about power, effectivity and administration.

“We’re power poor. I simply need regular driving, simply the way it needs to be with out having to [say]: ‘Oh, if I brake a bit longer or much less or extra, or one gear up or down.’ It so closely impacts the efficiency on the straights. Plus, the grip in the intervening time is sort of low with these tyres and the automotive configuration. It’s a huge step again to the way it was.”

Max Verstappen, Crimson Bull Racing

Picture by: Sam Bagnall / Sutton Photographs by way of Getty Photographs

He added: “Truthfully, the proportion of the automotive seems good, I believe. That is not the issue. It is simply the whole lot else that may be a bit, for me, anti-racing.

“In all probability individuals won’t be pleased with me saying this proper now. However I’m outspoken and why am I not allowed to say what I consider my race automotive? I am unable to assist that.

“I imply, I did not write the regulation. If it was, I believe, as much as non-political facets of creating a regulation, I believe, anyway, the automotive would have most likely have regarded very completely different.”

Verstappen did say it pained him to be so frank in his views out of respect for the work his crew and the ability unit division at Crimson Bull Powertrains had accomplished, with each the automotive and engine showing to be in fine condition to date – the brand-new engine division even defying expectations.

“Alternatively, I additionally know the way a lot work has been happening within the background,” he added. “Additionally from the engine aspect, for the fellows. So, it isn’t all the time the nicest factor to say. However I additionally wish to be life like as a driver, the sensation.

“I additionally know what’s at stake with the crew; our personal engine and seeing the joy of the individuals. After all, after I sit within the automotive, I’ll all the time give it my perfect. They know that. Pleasure degree will not be so excessive to drive.”

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Verstappen had already voiced considerations concerning the 2026 guidelines over the previous few years whereas they’re being conceived, and prompt his enjoyment would play a giant half in any determination to stroll away from F1 earlier than when his present Crimson Bull deal is up in 2028, and even earlier.

It would not sound like his expertise up to now in Bahrain helped F1’s case of retaining him within the collection into his 30s.

“A profitable automotive for me, that does not matter. It must be enjoyable to drive as effectively,” the four-time world champion insisted. “I believe at this stage of my profession I’m additionally exploring different issues outdoors of System 1 to have enjoyable at. know that we’re caught with this regulation for fairly some time. So, yeah, let’s examine.”

When requested if he’ll participate within the Nurburgring 24 Hours, which has purposefully moved dates to keep away from a direct conflict with the F1 calendar, he jested: “I imply, taking a look at it now, no less than you possibly can drive flat on the market with out taking care of my battery…

“I wish to do it. We’re engaged on it to make it occur, however I can’t affirm it but.”

Images from Bahrain Pre-Season Testing – Day 2

Alexander Albon, Williams