Toto Wolff highlights major Max Verstappen 2026 F1 advantage

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff believes the new 2026 F1 power unit regulations will suit drivers heavily involved in "the virtual world," pinpointing Max Verstappen.

Verstappen spends more time simulator racing than any other driver on the grid and is historically known to have even travelled with a simulator rig to various Grands Prix in the past.

Next season will see a complete overhaul of the regulations and, in particular, the power units, which will feature a 50/50 split of electrical power and internal combustion.

It is a huge step towards electrification for F1, and it is set to create several brand-new challenges for the teams and drivers.

In Wolff's eyes, the regulations and the way the cars will need to be driven are going to suit those who enjoy simulator driving.

Discussing the 2026 engines on the Beyond the Grid podcast, Wolff said: "We will be having 50% electric and 50% combustion.

"We will be needing to compensate for a lack of electric power on every single lap, particularly on the ones with long straights.

"And I think what we're seeing now, the strategies almost add a little chess component. Where is the driver going to deploy his energy? Who is better prepared? And I think the generation sim driver will be in a good spot here."

Verstappen has competed in the biggest simulator races on the planet and is a key part of simulator outfit Team Redline, into which he has invested significant time and money.

Asked if the new regulations will suit younger drivers as a result, Wolff replied: "Well, the question is, what is younger drivers? You look at George [Russell] and his generation, Max, they work on the simulator, and they enjoy that.

"It's their generation. So yes, I think whoever loves to be in the virtual world, be it on a rig at home or in a simulator in the factory, is going to have an advantage."