Formula 1 chief Stefano Domenicali has made it clear that drivers are free to voice their thoughts about the sport’s technical direction and that no one is being silenced when it comes to discussing the new power‑unit regulations. The conversation has become especially heated after the 2026 rule package was introduced, a set of changes that has split the paddock and sparked a wave of commentary from several high‑profile competitors, most notably Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.
Verstappen has been one of the most vocal critics of the 2026 regulations, arguing that the changes have altered the character of modern Grand Prix racing. He has repeatedly described the so‑called “yoyo” effect—where drivers overtake only to be re‑passed shortly afterwards—as "anti‑racing" and has even joked that his outspoken stance might earn him a bullet at the next race weekend. At the Belgian Grand Prix last month he quipped that someone might "probably shoot me outside the door" if he kept criticizing the rule set. A week later, speaking at the Hungarian Grand Prix, Verstappen expanded on his earlier remarks.
He said, "I’ve spoken my mind about these regulations for a long time, and at first most people dismissed me as just a complainer. But the last few races have shown that many are beginning to see the same issues I flagged long ago. It’s not about me not wanting to win any more; it’s about caring for the product we deliver to fans.
I’ve said it enough, but when the questions keep coming I feel compelled to keep speaking up." He continued, "I understand some people will say the race was great, but the way we’re currently racing isn’t realistic. On several circuits we’re forced to run with far less horsepower than F1 standards demand, which makes the experience painful for drivers and less thrilling for spectators. I’m getting tired of repeating the same points, especially when simply handling the car is already a huge challenge." Domenicali responded that while he prefers private, behind‑the‑scenes discussions to iron out technical disagreements, he fully respects the drivers’ right to express their opinions.
"You know me – we’re not here to put tape over anyone’s mouth. The beauty of Formula 1 is that everyone can have an opinion, even if it’s just an opinion," he said.
"There are people whose job it is to draw the line, and while drivers will naturally favour certain outcomes, we need to keep the conversation constructive." The debate over the power‑unit formula has been ongoing for months. When the 2026 regulations were first announced, they introduced a near‑even split between internal‑combustion engine output and electric power—roughly a 50‑50 balance. However, the FIA later revealed that for 2027 the split would shift to 58‑42 in favour of the engine, and by 2028 it would move further to 60‑40. This gradual increase in electrical assistance was intended to push the sport toward greater sustainability, but many drivers, including Verstappen, feel it has compromised the raw, high‑speed feel that traditionally defined F1.
In March, Verstappen hinted that he might reconsider his future in the sport if the regulatory trajectory continued unchanged. He expressed frustration that the new power‑unit rules, which deliver more electric boost than previous seasons, were dampening the excitement of wheel‑to‑wheel battles.
Since then, while he has not announced any intention to leave Red Bull, speculation persists about whether he will stay with the team or seek a new environment that aligns better with his vision of racing. Domenicali, for his part, praised Verstappen’s talent and underscored the strong personal relationship he shares with the Dutch driver. "Max is an incredible driver. I’ve said it many times, perhaps too many times as I get older!
He loves Formula 1, and we discuss the future regulations together. I have an amazing relationship with him, and I truly hope he decides to stay. The sport is massive—much larger than any individual—and I believe Max will remain a key part of it," the president said. Attendance figures this season support the notion that Formula 1’s popularity is still soaring.
Every event has sold out, with record‑breaking crowds reported in Australia (484,000 spectators), Canada (360,000), Austria (320,000), Silverstone (564,000), Belgium (400,000) and Hungary (310,000). These numbers illustrate the sport’s expanding global footprint and the appetite of fans for live racing experiences. During a recent conversation with filmmaker George Lucas, Domenicali gained further insight into how new audiences are consuming the sport. Lucas, who was in Hungary for the Grand Prix, shared his perspective on the shifting expectations of fans.
"Most new viewers aren’t interested in the technical minutiae of throttle angles or brake pressure percentages," Lucas explained. "What they care about is overtaking, drama, and the sheer spectacle of cars fighting wheel‑to‑wheel." Domenicali agreed, noting that the majority of spectators simply want to see exciting on‑track action.
He cited Verstappen’s daring pass on Lewis Hamilton at Turn 1 in Hungary as a perfect example of the kind of moment that resonates with casual fans: "That overtake was a piece of art. People just want to see that kind of brilliance and feel connected to the drivers’ skill." Looking ahead, the Formula 1 calendar will resume after the summer hiatus with a Sprint weekend at the Dutch Grand Prix, scheduled for 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 events will provide another platform for drivers, teams, and officials to demonstrate the sport’s evolving dynamics while continuing the dialogue about how best to balance technological progress with the pure, adrenaline‑fueled racing that has defined Formula 1 for decades.