F1 News: Max Verstappen Criticises – “This Sport Is So Political”

Max Verstappen voices his criticism regarding the political nature of Formula 1.

Key Takeaways:

• Verstappen’s Candid Remarks: Max Verstappen openly discusses various topics within Formula 1, including Sprint races, controversies surrounding the F1 docuseries Drive to Survive, and concerns about the upcoming power unit regulations for 2026.
• Concerns Over Power Unit Regulations: Verstappen and Red Bull express concerns about the 50-50 power split proposed for 2026, citing potential impacts on wheel-to-wheel racing dynamics.
• Lack of Support: Despite Red Bull’s efforts to advocate for a slight increase in internal combustion output, other Formula 1 teams did not support the proposal, highlighting the political landscape within the sport.

In a recent interview with Motorsport-magazin.com, Max Verstappen didn’t shy away from expressing his frustrations with the political dynamics inherent in Formula 1. He emphasized that such politics have always been a part of the sport, reflecting on the challenges faced by teams when advocating for change.

Verstappen’s candid remarks shed light on several pressing issues within Formula 1, including Sprint races, controversies surrounding the F1 docuseries Drive to Survive, and concerns about the upcoming power unit regulations for 2026. However, his recent focus has been on the latter, particularly regarding the proposed 50% electric and 50% internal combustion power split.

Red Bull, led by team principal Christian Horner, has raised concerns about the potential impact of this regulation on wheel-to-wheel racing dynamics. Horner highlighted the need for support from other teams to reconsider the rules, as their simulations suggest that the equal division of power sources could hinder overtaking opportunities on the track.

Despite Red Bull’s efforts to advocate for a slight adjustment to the proposed power split, they faced resistance from other Formula 1 teams. Verstappen’s remarks underscore the challenges teams encounter when trying to implement changes in the sport, where political considerations often play a significant role in decision-making processes.

Verstappen’s candid commentary serves as a reminder of the complexities within Formula 1, where competing interests and strategic alliances shape the landscape of the sport. As teams navigate these challenges, Verstappen’s outspokenness offers valuable insight into the internal dynamics and external pressures faced by drivers and teams alike.