Max Verstappen strongly criticised Formula One’s new regulations after pre-season testing in Bahrain.
He called the cars “anti-racing” and said the complex energy management makes them unpleasant to drive.
He warned he could leave the sport if racing stops being enjoyable.
Lewis Hamilton voiced similar concerns.
He said the systems are so complicated that fans will struggle to understand them.
He added that drivers now need extensive technical knowledge to operate the cars.
The 2026 rules introduce new engines, chassis and tyres.
Power now comes almost equally from combustion and electric systems.
Drivers must constantly manage energy deployment while racing.
Testing times revealed little about the true competitive order.
Mercedes topped the timesheets with Kimi Antonelli and George Russell.
Ferrari and McLaren also showed strong pace.
Verstappen finished seventh for Red Bull Racing but demonstrated impressive straight-line speed.
Lando Norris rejected Verstappen’s criticism.
He said the cars remain fun to drive and expects Verstappen to keep fighting for victories.
Toto Wolff claimed Mercedes had set the benchmark.
Red Bull played down its performance and accused Mercedes of hiding its true pace.
A political dispute over a possible Mercedes engine loophole continues.
The FIA aims to resolve the issue before the season opener in Melbourne.
Aston Martin endured a difficult test.
Lance Stroll criticised the engine, balance and grip.
The team’s new car, designed by Adrian Newey, remains far off the leading pace.
