Red Bull driver Max Verstappen said Formula One’s current engine regulations were “mentally not doable” and warned he may not continue racing if planned rule changes fail.
Verstappen made the comments after the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, where Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli extended his championship lead, and Lewis Hamilton finished second for Ferrari.
The four-time world champion criticised the heavy energy management required under the current hybrid system. He said the sport had become “way too complex” for drivers and fans.
Verstappen said Formula One should return to “more pure racing” and backed efforts to change the 2026 engine power split from 50:50 to 60:40 in favour of electrical power.
Several drivers echoed the concerns. Hamilton said the engines no longer felt natural because power delivery dropped midway through straights. Antonelli also said the system could feel frustrating during races.
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Hamilton also revealed that Ferrari’s simulator may have contributed to his inconsistent form earlier this season.
The seven-time champion said he skipped simulator work before races in China and Canada, which he described as his strongest weekends of the year.
Formula One and FIA officials are still seeking agreement from engine manufacturers, including Ferrari, Audi and Honda, over the proposed regulation changes.
