Four-time world champion Max Verstappen has admitted he finds the current generation of Formula One cars less enjoyable to drive, although he remains hopeful that future rule adjustments will improve the experience.
The Red Bull Racing driver revealed he has already held discussions with the sport’s governing body and officials about possible changes.
Verstappen “Conflicted” About Modern F1
Verstappen explained that while he still enjoys competing with his team, the new engine regulations have changed the nature of driving in Formula 1.
“I am a bit conflicted, because I don’t really enjoy driving the car but I do enjoy working with the team.”
He emphasised that he does not intend to leave Formula 1, but hopes ongoing discussions with the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile and F1 management will lead to improvements.
Energy Management Changing the Driving Style
One of the biggest concerns among drivers is the heavy focus on energy management under the current power unit regulations.
The new engines operate with a 50–50 balance between internal combustion power and electrical energy, which means drivers must carefully manage battery charge throughout a lap.
Instead of attacking corners at maximum speed, drivers often need to lift off the throttle in high-speed sections to recharge the battery, a process known as clipping.
Drivers Say Some Challenges Are Disappearing
Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso believes the new style of driving removes some of the traditional skill challenges that once defined Formula 1.
He pointed out that historically difficult corners at circuits like:
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Suzuka Circuit
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Bahrain International Circuit
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Suzuka 130R
used to push drivers to the absolute limit.
Now, many of those corners are used strategically to recharge batteries rather than test driver bravery.
A New Type of Skill in Racing
However, not all drivers view the changes negatively.
Reigning champion Lando Norris believes the driver can still make a difference, though in a different way.
Rather than purely carrying more speed through corners, success now often depends on managing the power unit more efficiently than rivals.
Strategic Battles Still Exciting
Charles Leclerc said he actually enjoyed a strategic battle with George Russell during the season-opening race at Albert Park Circuit.
The duel involved clever use of the new boost and overtake modes, allowing drivers to pass and re-pass each other in the early laps.
Meanwhile, Russell believes it is too early to judge the new regulations, suggesting different circuits may produce different styles of racing.
Possible Rule Adjustments Coming
Formula 1 officials are already reviewing the impact of the new rules after the opening races of the season.
With the next race scheduled at the Chinese Grand Prix, teams and officials will continue evaluating whether modifications are needed.
For Verstappen and many others, the hope is simple: retain the technological evolution of the sport while bringing back the raw driving thrill that defined Formula 1 for decades.