F1 Drivers Speak Out on New Regulations

Prominent drivers criticize 2026 Formula 1 car designs, sparking debate over their right to voice concerns.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Several top Formula 1 drivers, including Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, have publicly criticized the new regulations for the 2026 season, describing the cars as "anti-racing" and "not fun." The comments have sparked a debate over whether drivers should be able to openly criticize the sport that has made them global celebrities and multi-millionaires.

Why it matters

The drivers' feedback is important as they are the ones who will be directly impacted by the new regulations and have firsthand experience of how the cars perform on the track. However, some argue that the drivers should provide more constructive criticism rather than simply attacking the new rules.

The details

The new 2026 F1 regulations aim to make the cars more environmentally friendly by incorporating larger electric motors, but some drivers have expressed concerns that this will negatively impact the racing. Verstappen called the cars "Formula E on steroids," while Hamilton said they give him a "GP2 feeling." The drivers' comments have drawn both praise and criticism, with some arguing that the feedback is necessary to improve the sport, while others believe the drivers are "biting the hand that feeds them."

  • The new 2026 F1 regulations were announced in 2022.
  • Drivers have been testing the 2026 cars during pre-season testing in early 2026.

The players

Lewis Hamilton

A seven-time Formula 1 world champion who has been outspoken in his criticism of the 2026 regulations.

Max Verstappen

The reigning Formula 1 world champion who has also criticized the 2026 car designs as "anti-racing" and "not fun."

Sir Jackie Stewart

A former Formula 1 driver who led a successful safety campaign in the 1970s, highlighting the importance of driver feedback in driving change in the sport.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The FIA and Formula 1 will continue to work with the drivers to refine the 2026 regulations and address their concerns.

The takeaway

The debate over whether F1 drivers should be able to openly criticize the sport highlights the delicate balance between respecting the drivers' expertise and experience, and maintaining the sport's overall image and commercial success. Constructive feedback from the drivers is crucial, but it must be balanced with a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the platform the sport has provided them.