F1 defends 2026 power rules as Max Verstappen calls for more realistic racing
Domenicali refuses to silence criticism
Formula 1 president Stefano Domenicali has defended the right of drivers to criticise the sport’s 2026 power-unit regulations, even as Max Verstappen continues to question the racing produced by the new rules.
The 2026 regulations introduced a much larger electrical contribution, creating an almost 50-50 split between combustion and electric power. Verstappen has described the resulting cycle of overtakes and re-overtakes as “anti-racing” and said some circuits involve driving with surprisingly little horsepower by Formula One standards.
“The beauty of our sport is that everyone can have an opinion,” Domenicali said. “We are not here to put tape on the mouth of anyone.” He added that criticism should remain constructive and that technical discussions are best handled through the sport’s formal channels.
Changes are already planned
The FIA has agreed with teams to adjust the power balance for 2027 and 2028. The electrical share is scheduled to fall from the current level to a 42 percent contribution in 2027 and 40 percent in 2028, increasing the relative role of the internal-combustion engine.
Verstappen has previously raised questions about his future if the regulations do not change, although he has not recently indicated that he intends to leave Formula One. Domenicali said he hopes the four-time world champion remains in the series.
“F1 is big enough for him to be part of us,” Domenicali said, while stressing that the sport is larger than any individual driver or team.
The debate is about the show as well as the technology
Domenicali argued that Formula One’s expanding audience is primarily interested in visible action, particularly overtaking, rather than the technical details of throttle application or brake pressure. He pointed to a move by Verstappen on Lewis Hamilton at Turn 1 in Hungary as an example of the kind of competition that can connect with new and established fans alike.
The power-unit debate will continue alongside the championship fight when the season resumes at the Dutch Grand Prix on August 21.