Lando Norris strongly criticized the 2026 regulations after the Australian Grand Prix. Winner in Melbourne, George Russell believes, however, that these criticisms would be different if the McLaren driver were in the lead.
Read more Charles Leclerc compares the start of his Ferrari to a «Mario Kart mushroom»
The debate surrounding Formula 1’s new technical rules intensified after the Australian Grand Prix. Several drivers expressed their concerns regarding the significant emphasis placed on energy management in the 2026 regulations.
After finishing fifth in Melbourne, Lando Norris was particularly critical. The Briton notably judged the discipline to have become “very artificial” and warned that the speed differences caused by the use of energy could lead to “a big accident”.
Max Verstappen also expressed reservations, believing that some on-track battles looked more like a video game than real Formula 1 duels.
Russell refers Norris back to his own situation
George Russell, for his part, does not share this view. The Mercedes driver, winner of the race from pole position, believes that these criticisms must be put into context.
“Yes… well, it’s always the same with him,” Russell replies when asked about Norris’s statements. “If he were winning, I don’t think he would say the same thing.”
The Briton considers that drivers often tend to defend their own interests above all else.
“Everyone looks out for themselves first. In this sport, we are all a bit selfish on that point.”
Recurring criticisms in the paddock
Russell also recalls that drivers have often criticized different technical aspects of F1 over the seasons.
Read more Red Bull trapped by the new F1: Verstappen and Hadjar forced to start with an empty battery
“Last year, people were complaining that the cars were too stiff, that there was porpoising and that everyone had a sore back. But some McLaren drivers said there was no porpoising, even though we could clearly see their car bouncing.”
According to him, these reactions often depend on the competitiveness of each team.
“Last year, we had the same engine as them and McLaren simply did a better job than us. This year, McLaren still has the same engine as us, like Williams and Alpine, and so far we have done a better job than them.”
A regulation to be judged over several circuits
Russell also believes it is too early to judge the new regulations after just one race. The Albert Park layout, with its long straights and limited braking zones, represents a particular challenge for energy management.
“Every circuit will be different with these rules, explains he. The next race will be in Shanghai, where there is a very long straight. Most drivers will use their energy mainly there, instead of spreading it over several sections like here in Melbourne.”
For the Mercedes driver, the championship must be given time to find its balance: “Everyone is very quick to criticize. We have to give these rules a chance and see what happens after a few races.”
Russell concludes by highlighting a frequent contradiction in the debates surrounding Formula 1.
“When drivers are perfectly comfortable and the cars are easy to drive, they say the races are boring.”
“Today, the drivers are not totally satisfied, but many say the race was incredible. You can’t have it all.”
Read more The new 2026 F1 cars already at the heart of the controversy after the chaos in Australia