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Stefano Domenicali has stated it is his "duty" to ensure he does "what is best" for Formula 1, following fierce criticism from drivers regarding the championship's new technical regulations.
With the new power units generating 50% of their total output from significantly larger batteries, some drivers, most notably Max Verstappen, voiced sharp criticism of the new rules early in the season.
The four-time world champion described the new driving style, which demands constant energy management, as "anti-racing" and likened it to "Formula E on steroids" during pre-season testing. Drivers also expressed concerns about the loss of challenge in fast corners like Suzuka's 'Esses', with Fernando Alonso even calling them "charging stations" for the batteries.
During the April break, discussions were held between the drivers, Formula 1, and the FIA. A plan was devised to increase the internal combustion engine's power contribution to 60% by 2028, thereby reducing reliance on batteries.
Commenting on the situation with the openly critical drivers, Domenicali insisted that Formula 1 would not "silence anyone." He explained that he must do what is best for the sport, recalling that the 2026 regulations were designed to attract new manufacturers, a goal achieved with Audi's entry and Honda's return as a power unit supplier.
"We are not here to silence anyone. I mean, the beauty of the sport is that everyone can have an opinion, but an opinion is an opinion. There is someone whose duty it is to follow a certain line. Of course, there are drivers who prefer certain things," Domenicali stated. "I think in the process we highlighted the need to be constructive in this regard, but I come back to the fact that this change was for a vital reason. This has been adjusted, and I prefer to discuss things in that light, behind closed doors, to find solutions. But as I said, the louder you talk about certain things, the more the negativity is not directed at the sport, but becomes personal.""I think everyone understood that, and in that sense, I respect the drivers, but they need to realize that there is a path we must walk together. The fans, who are a priority above all, even above me, can have a personal opinion. But I have a duty to summarize what is best for the sport, and I believe that today the situation is very strong and stable with all stakeholders. So we must look forward and ensure the sport grows, as I said, all together in the right direction," the Formula 1 boss added.
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