2026 Concerns in Formula 1: Hamilton and Verstappen Are Uncomfortable with the New Rules

While the new engine rules that will come into force in the 2026 season in Formula 1 continue to be discussed, criticism from pilots has once again become the center of the agenda. Especially the question marks regarding the energy management system create serious dissatisfaction among drivers.

In recent weeks, there has been a decrease in the amount of criticism of the pilots with the regulations made by the FIA ​​after the Miami GP. The announcement that the internal combustion engine and electric power distribution would be reduced to 60:40 as of 2027 was positively received in the paddock. However, some engine manufacturers and teams wanted the 2026 plan to be postponed to 2028, reigniting the discussions.

In this process, it was noteworthy that retirement signals from Max Verstappen came to the fore again. It is said that the Dutch pilot is not particularly keen on the new generation power unit concept.

One of the clearest statements about the new rules came from Lewis Hamilton. The experienced driver argued that the driving character of the 2026 vehicles did not fully comply with the spirit of Formula 1.

Hamilton used the following statements in his statement:

“What we’re doing doesn’t feel natural. The power drops, then Straight Mode kicks in, the energy runs out in the middle of the straights and the engine revs start to drop. It doesn’t feel like real motorsport to me.”

The seven-time world champion pilot also openly stated that he missed the character of the old generation engines:

“The engine has to scream all the way down the straight and produce power constantly. That’s exactly what it was in the V8 and V10 eras.”

Despite this, Hamilton also admitted that the new generation vehicles have positive aspects in terms of combat. Particularly the ability of the vehicles to follow each other more closely and the increase in on-track battles were among the details that the British pilot liked.

The 2026 regulations have created a huge difference of opinion in the Formula 1 world before they even hit the track. It will become clear when the season starts whether the pilots will fully adapt to the new systems.