Hülkenberg to disgruntled fans: “If you don’t like races, don’t watch them”

This year’s controversies Despite the changes introduced before the Miami Grand Prix, the 2026 technical regulations still do not seem to satisfy some drivers, as well as numerous spectators. The engines oriented towards greater electric power, with a 50/50 split between electric and thermal power, were not at all appreciated by many enthusiasts, thanks to the inability of the drivers to be able to push to the maximum during the lap and forced to recharge energy at the end of the straights or in the corners. Hülkenberg’s ‘invitation’ On the contrary, these innovations were promoted not only by fans who saw closer races and more overtaking, but also by drivers like Nico Hülkenberg. Interviewed by The Drive, the German from Audi appreciated the evolution of Formula 1, making an invitation to the most dissatisfied fans: “To tell the truth, it has always been like this in F1, hasn’t it? F1 is based on cutting-edge technology and you have to keep up with the times. If you look at the automotive industry of five or ten years ago, it is different; it has changed. I think the first ones we took part in were fun. It was nice to see them, with so much action on the track, and if not you like it, you don’t have to watch it.” The changes In Formula 1 from 2010 to today (with a brief period as an unofficial driver), Hülkenberg has experienced firsthand the technical changes of the Circus: from the transition to 2.4-litre V8 engines to 1.4-litre V6 engines, to then contest the first phase of this season with power units powered by sustainable fuel. The 2030 or 2031 world championship, however, could welcome V8s back, at the push of FIA President Mohammed Nen Sulayem: “F1 is constantly evolving – added Hülkenberg – obviously there are purists who love the old school and the sound of a naturally aspirated V10 or V12, myself included, but the reality is that it doesn’t work like that. A few years ago, sustainability was a central theme, now it is less so. But, you know, I have the feeling that Formula 1 and its regulators have been pushed a bit in that direction to keep up with the times. If you want to keep up with the times and be a legitimate business and entertainment model, you have to go down that path.”

Automobile Magazine – F1 English News , 2026-05-14 22:30:11