Max Verstappen handed important backing as FIA and F1 face fresh criticism

Not everyone in F1 has welcomed Max Verstappen’s outspoken criticism of the new regulations, but Alex Wurz says he fully understands the four-time world champion's position.

The introduction of the next generation of F1 rules — particularly around increased electrical power deployment and energy management — has drawn mixed reactions from drivers across the grid.

Several have raised concerns that the cars risk becoming overly complex and less engaging to drive, with a heavier emphasis on energy saving rather than outright racing.

Verstappen has been among the most vocal, expressing his frustrations openly in recent media sessions, to the displeasure of some stakeholders.

Wurz, a former F1 driver and current chairperson of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA), believes such criticism is both valid and necessary.

"Max is actually one of the best members of the GPDA," Wurz said on the Lift and Roast podcast. "He's also clear that he wants to stay, because he truly cares about this sport. He loves it.

"Within the GPDA, all 22 drivers are members, so in that sense, there's not much disagreement. But our platform is now being used purely to let them speak with one voice, and the rule-makers need to listen to that."

Wurz on Verstappen: 'I'm on his side'

According to Wurz, that level of engagement from the governing bodies has not been sufficient during the current regulatory cycle.

"I have to be very honest, and also critical, that in previous instances we were far more intensively and frequently involved in shaping the new regulations than we were this time," he explained.

"A few years ago, we already warned that the extreme energy demands would get out of hand. That's why we're talking about it now."

The debate over the new rules has also extended to whether they will enhance or detract from the driving experience, something several drivers have hinted could be compromised. While some see the technical challenge as appealing, others fear it may come at the expense of wheel-to-wheel racing.

Wurz admits he is conflicted on that front: "I find that difficult to answer. On the one hand, as someone with a technical mindset, I know I would enjoy the challenge of finding solutions as quickly as possible and working harder to achieve success. After all, you don't go there just to have fun — we have to put that into perspective.

"The drivers do it because they are athletes, because they are ambitious and want to win. And winning means working hard and giving everything.

"Whether one says it's enjoyable and another says it's hard work doesn't matter much. They're there because they have talent and want to win — it's the pinnacle of motorsport. These are still the fastest cars."

Even so, Wurz made it clear he sides with Verstappen's overall stance.

"But I understand Max as well, 100%," the Austrian added. "I've said it before, but we all need to listen to him. I'm on his side.

"We're only at the beginning, so there's still a lot of discussion. We all need to get used to it, the teams as well. But it will improve."