Max Verstappen adds to 2026 F1 regulations criticism: 'I am exploring other things'

Max Verstappen is "exploring other things outside of Formula 1" to find his "fun" in racing, after his attack on the new regulations.

Verstappen branded the new energy recovery and management rules as "anti-racing" and as "Formula E on steroids" on Thursday, with the Dutchman well-known for his outspoken views on topics in F1. 

Verstappen has been signalling the dangers of the 2026 rules since as far back as 2023, with the four-time champion enjoying outings at the Nurburgring in 2025 and is preparing for a shot at the 24 Hours in later this May. 

Whilst describing the rules as less "pure", Verstappen indicated that even a winning car would placate his concerns 

"In general, in the history of the sport, the fastest or best drivers normally, they win the championship and end up in the best team,"  Verstappen told media, including RacingNews365.

"But I think all the good drivers will be able to adapt to it, but that is not the problem. It is just that the whole way of racing is changing, and I would say that it is less pure.

"I don't know what else I can add to that. The good drivers will always be on top, and of course, the people who have a bit more capacity around just driving fast will be up there, but that's also not what I am trying to say, because that is not my worry.

"It is just the general driving experience."

When then asked if the possibility of a race-winning and championship-challenging car would change his feelings towards the 2026 machines, Verstappen indicated that it would not.

"For me, a winning car doesn't matter; it needs to be fun to drive at this stage of my career," he said.

"Of course, I am exploring other things outside of Formula 1 to have fun at, and I know that we're stuck with these regulations for quite a while."