The president of the GPDA (Grand Prix Drivers’ Association), Alexander Wurz, states that the drivers have already succeeded in evolving the highly controversial 2026 Formula 1 technical regulations.
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The former Formula 1 driver acknowledges that the criticisms made by Max Verstappen and several of his colleagues were perfectly legitimate, but he believes that this controversy has in no way harmed the championship’s appeal.
“There has been a lot of dissatisfaction from the drivers and people in the paddock, Wurz told the Austrian newspaper Österreich. But this has not damaged the Formula 1 product. On the contrary, the audiences are excellent, including among the young public, who stay watching the races until the end. Yet, it is often said that young people no longer have the ability to stay focused for long.”
Verstappen worried about the future
Since the start of the season, Max Verstappen has become one of the main critics of the current cars, even suggesting that his future in Formula 1 would depend on the return of more enjoyable cars to drive.
For Wurz, these statements should not be taken lightly: “When one of the main players of recent years questions his future, it inevitably raises questions.”
The Austrian nevertheless thinks that the four-time world champion will remain in Formula 1: “Only he can answer that question. I think he does not yet know exactly where things will evolve. But I assume he will stay in Formula 1. After all, this is where the fastest and most spectacular cars are found. And we already see that the regulations are gradually evolving in the direction he wants.”
Changes obtained thanks to the drivers
Alex Wurz believes that Verstappen’s frustration is understandable: “I can perfectly understand him. Maybe the regulations changed too much and too quickly.”
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As president of the GPDA, he states that the drivers’ association has already played a decisive role in the evolution of the rules: “That is exactly what we do. Without the involvement of the GPDA, the regulations would never have been changed.”
According to him, the changes will remain gradual in order to respect the work of the engine manufacturers: “Out of fairness to the engine manufacturers, it was not possible to overturn everything at once. The developments will happen step by step. Many things will still change over the next two years.”
Wurz notably confirms that the share of the thermal engine will be progressively increased, while specifying that hybrid technology will remain an essential component of Formula 1.
Antonelli impresses more than Russell
Asked about the championship, Wurz also humorously recalled his early season prediction when he saw George Russell crowned world champion: “Did I really bet on Russell?” he joked.
More seriously, he believes that the internal hierarchy at Mercedes has reversed: “Kimi perfectly manages the new car and the energy management demands, while George is facing more difficulties.”
The Austrian did not spare praise for Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the current championship leader: “Besides, Kimi is a very nice boy. It seems like he only has friends.”
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