F1 chief says drivers may voice their views on power‑unit rules

Formula 1 chief Stefano Domenicalli has made it clear that drivers are free to express their thoughts about the sport’s power‑unit regulations and that no one is being silenced for speaking out. The conversation around the 2026 technical rule package has become increasingly polarised, with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen among the most vocal critics.

Verstappen has repeatedly described the new "yoyo" racing style—where cars overtake each other only to be passed again shortly after—as "anti‑racing" and, after the Belgian Grand Prix last month, quipped that he might be "shot out the door" for daring to question the rules. A week later in Hungary, Verstappen elaborated on his concerns. He said he had been honest about the regulations for a long time, noting that initially many people dismissed his comments as mere whining. "At first people said, ‘Oh, he’s just complaining, he should shut up,’" he recalled.

"But after the last few races, more and more people are seeing the same issues I warned about long ago. It isn’t about me not wanting to win; it’s about caring for the product we deliver.

I’ve said it enough, but when the same questions keep coming back, you keep speaking up, even if it isn’t always welcomed." Verstappen continued, pointing out that the current cars are often operating with far less horsepower than traditional F1 standards, especially on certain circuits. "You end up on tracks where the power is limited, and it becomes a bit painful for the drivers. It’s not the most exciting spectacle, and I’m getting tired of repeating the same point.

Driving the car is already hard enough without having to constantly explain why the performance feels constrained," he said. Domenicalli, while acknowledging the drivers’ frustrations, said he would prefer to resolve technical disagreements behind closed doors, yet he respects every driver’s right to an opinion.

"We’re not here to gag anyone. The beauty of Formula 1 is that everyone can have an opinion, even if it’s just an opinion," he explained. "There are people who have a duty to draw a line, and some drivers naturally lean toward certain preferences. In that process we need to be constructive." Earlier this year, Verstappen hinted that he might reconsider his future in the sport if the power‑unit formula did not evolve.

The 2026 regulations increase the electrical component of the hybrid system, pushing the split between internal‑combustion and electric power to roughly 50‑50. The FIA later announced a gradual shift toward a 58‑42 split for 2027 and a 60‑40 split for 2028. Although Verstappen has not announced any intention to leave Formula 1, speculation remains about whether he will stay with Red Bull or move elsewhere. Domenicalli praised Verstappen’s talent, saying, "Max is an incredible driver.

I’ve said that many times, perhaps too many times as I get older! If he loves Formula 1, we’ll keep discussing the regulations together. I have a great relationship with him, and the sport is big enough for him to stay.

Of course, he will decide his own future, but my hope is that he remains with us. The sport is larger than any single individual." Attendance figures this season underline the sport’s growth, with record‑breaking crowds at venues such as Australia (484,000), Canada (360,000), Austria (320,000), Silverstone (564,000), Belgium (400,000) and Hungary (310,000).

Domenicalli also referenced a recent conversation with filmmaker George Lucas, who visited the Hungarian Grand Prix. Lucas offered a perspective on how new fans engage with Formula 1, suggesting that most are less interested in the technical minutiae of throttle angles or brake pressure and more focused on the visual excitement of overtaking. "George gave us an eye‑opening view on simplifying the narrative for newer audiences," Domenicalli said.

"They’re fascinated by the sheer amount of action on track. While a minority will dive into the engineering details, the majority just want to see overtakes and battles. Take Max’s spectacular pass on Lewis at Turn 1 in Hungary – that was a piece of art that resonated with fans who simply love to watch great drivers at work." Looking ahead, the championship will return after the summer break with a sprint weekend at the Dutch Grand Prix from 21‑23 August.

All sessions will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1, and fans can stream the coverage via NOW without a contract, canceling at any time. The upcoming races will continue to test the balance between regulatory change and on‑track excitement, and the dialogue between the sport’s leadership and its drivers will remain a central theme as Formula 1 strives to satisfy both traditional enthusiasts and a growing global audience.