Max Verstappen calls for a simpler and more “pure” Formula 1, as the engine reform planned for 2027 might ultimately never come to fruition.
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Fresh off his first podium of the season at the Canadian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen continues to make his voice heard on the future of the sport. The Red Bull driver believes that current F1 has become too complex, notably due to hybrid systems and energy management.
For the Dutchman, the problem does not lie with the level of drivers, which he still considers exceptional, but rather with the technical rules that unnecessarily complicate driving and the overall understanding of the sport.
“For me, even this season, I have also driven other types of cars, and last week reminded me how pure motorsport can be and how great the races are” said Verstappen.
Rules considered too complex
The four-time world champion particularly criticizes the current operation of power units, with a 50:50 split between internal combustion engine and battery.
According to him, this architecture requires overly detailed energy management, to the detriment of natural on-track spectacle.
“When I come back to Formula 1, everything is a bit confusing. This is not what F1 should be. Everything is way too complex” he explained.
He notably pointed out the many rules related to battery usage, race phases, and starting procedures.
“The fans themselves don’t even know what we have to manage while driving, whether behind a car or in front, in formation lap or out of the pits, or managing the battery. All of this is really a shame” added the Red Bull driver.
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Uncertain engine reform for 2027
These statements come as a major evolution of engine rules for 2027 is currently at a critical stage. A shift towards a 60:40 split between internal combustion engine and electric had been discussed to reduce battery dependency.
But this change is now far from guaranteed, with several engine manufacturers expressing reservations about such a rapid modification after massive investments in the current regulations.
Verstappen, for his part, does not hide his skepticism towards these hesitations and insists on the need to return to a more understandable F1.
“For me, F1 must be purer, and I really hope that what they are trying to implement for next year will pass, because it’s the minimum to make everything more natural” he continued.
“Give us any car”
The Dutch driver concludes by reminding that, according to him, the spectacle depends above all on the drivers, not just the technical regulations.
“Give us any car, we will always race and put on a show. It’s not the car that makes the race, it’s making the sport purer” Verstappen stated.
A statement that reignites the debate on the balance between technological innovation and simplicity of spectacle in Formula 1.
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