Verstappen hits out at former F1 drivers: They haven't even read the new rules
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Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has openly criticised former drivers who previously questioned his stance on the 2026 technical regulations. In an interview with Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, the Red Bull driver pointed out that many pundits fail to read the new rules, leading to "ridiculous comments" on television broadcasts.
The 29-year-old Dutchman is among the fiercest opponents of the upcoming era, which introduces a 50-50 power split between the internal combustion engine and electric battery power. In previous remarks, he even likened the future cars to "Formula E on steroids" and the popular video game "Mario Kart".
Verstappen's discontent even prompted him to consider walking away from the championship, with multiple sources suggesting he came close to quitting during a difficult period. F1 bosses subsequently listened to his concerns and began adjusting the balance in favour of the traditional internal combustion engine.
Damon Hill's change of tune
One of Verstappen's most vocal critics earlier in the season was Damon Hill. After the Dutchman revealed following the Japanese Grand Prix that he was contemplating retirement, the 1996 world champion told the BBC that the driver might just need a break.
"I think if you're not enjoying it, you should stop and go do something else."
Months later, however, Hill noticeably shifted his stance, posting the following on social media:
"Regarding F1, AI, hybrids and algorithms – over time, driver skill will be reduced to a minimum. I say this as someone who worked on developing driver aids at Williams. Is that what we really want? That is the key question."
Lack of preparation among ex-drivers
When asked about Hill's sudden U-turn, Verstappen broadened the discussion to pundits as a whole:
"You know what the problem is with a lot of former drivers? They simply haven't read and don't read the new regulations. So they have no idea what it's actually about or how the power unit works. When they are asked on TV, you get some pretty strange answers. That's the main issue. Of course, it doesn't apply to everyone, but it certainly applies to a lot of them."
Although the likes of Fernando Alonso and Lando Norris have also voiced similar concerns on multiple occasions, Verstappen stated that he is not looking for allies in the paddock, but is simply speaking his mind, pointing out weaknesses, and proposing ways to improve.
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