Formula 1’s chief executive Stefano Domenicelli reiterated that drivers are free to express their thoughts about the sport’s power‑unit regulations and that no one is being silenced. The upcoming 2026 technical rule package has sparked a lively debate, with several drivers – most prominently Max Verstappen – openly questioning the impact of the new standards on racing dynamics.
Verstappen has repeatedly described the emerging "yoyo" style of competition, where overtakes are quickly followed by immediate re‑passes, as "anti‑racing". At the Belgian Grand Prix last month he even joked that critics of his remarks might "shoot me outside the door". A week later, speaking at the Hungarian Grand Prix, he elaborated on his concerns.
"I’ve been vocal about these regulations for a long time," Verstappen said. "Initially many people dismissed me as just a complainer and told me to shut up.
But the recent races have shown that the issues I warned about are becoming apparent to more and more observers. It’s not about me not wanting to win any longer; it’s about caring for the product we deliver. I’ve said this enough, but when the questions keep coming, I feel compelled to keep speaking up." He continued, noting that the current balance of power – roughly half internal‑combustion and half electric – leaves drivers with less horsepower than historic F1 standards, making the cars feel "a little painful" to drive. "That lack of excitement is something I’ve foreseen for years," he added, expressing frustration at having to repeat the same points while also coping with the physical demands of piloting the machines.
Domenicelli, while preferring private discussions to resolve technical disputes, stressed that he respects the drivers’ right to comment. "We’re not here to gag anyone," he said. "The beauty of this sport is that everyone can have an opinion, even if it’s just an opinion.
Some people have a duty to draw a line, and we need to keep the conversation constructive." Earlier in the season, Verstappen hinted he might reconsider his future in F1 if the power‑unit rules remained unchanged. The 2026 regulations increase electrical output, shifting the power split toward a 50‑50 split between combustion and electric energy. The FIA later announced a gradual move to a 58‑42 split for 2027 and a 60‑40 split for 2028, further reducing the role of the traditional engine.
Since those announcements, Verstappen has not declared an intention to leave the sport, though speculation persists about whether he will stay with Red Bull or move elsewhere. Domenicelli defended the Dutch driver, calling him "an incredible talent" and emphasizing their close working relationship.
"Max loves Formula 1," Domenicelli remarked. "We discuss the future regulations together, and I have a great relationship with him. The sport is big enough for him to stay, and I sincerely hope he chooses to remain with us.
The sport belongs to all of us, not just to any single individual." Attendance figures this year underline the sport’s growth: events have sold out across the globe, with record crowds in Australia (484,000), Canada (360,000), Austria (320,000), Silverstone (564,000), Belgium (400,000) and Hungary (310,000). Domenicelli also referenced a recent conversation with filmmaker George Lucas, who visited the Hungarian Grand Prix. Lucas suggested that most new fans are less interested in technical minutiae – such as throttle angles or brake pressure – and more focused on the spectacle of overtaking. "The majority of viewers simply want to see action on the track," Domenicelli explained.
"They aren’t concerned with the engineering details; they want to witness moments like Max’s brilliant pass on Lewis at Turn 1 in Hungary, which was, in my view, a piece of art. Those are the moments that connect fans to the sport." Looking ahead, the championship returns after the summer break with a sprint weekend at the Dutch Grand Prix from August 21‑23.
All sessions will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1, and fans can stream the coverage via NOW without a long‑term contract. The upcoming races will provide another opportunity for drivers and officials to assess the impact of the evolving power‑unit formula and to determine whether further adjustments are needed to preserve the excitement that makes Formula 1 a global phenomenon.