Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali defended the category’s new technical regulations, which have been criticized since their debut at the beginning of 2026, but stated that drivers are free to express their opinions on the matter.
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The new rules have as their main change the hybrid power units with a 50/50 split between combustion and electric energy. The system increased the importance of battery management and forced drivers to adopt new strategies during races.
The format, however, generated complaints from drivers and fans. In the first races, the difference in energy level between the cars reduced battles for position and contributed to the emergence of the term “yo-yo race.”
Max Verstappen was one of the main critics of the new concept. The Red Bull driver had already expressed concern before the regulations arrived and continued making negative remarks throughout the season. The Dutchman received support from names like Lando Norris, Fernando Alonso, and Carlos Sainz.
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When asked about the criticism, Domenicali said the category does not intend to limit drivers’ comments: “You know me, we are not here to tape anyone’s mouth,” he said. “I mean, the beauty of our sport is that everyone can have an opinion, but an opinion is just an opinion. There is someone who has the duty to draw a line. There are certain drivers who prefer, of course, certain things. I think, in the process, we highlighted the need to be constructive in this aspect.”
The executive also explained that the decision to follow a more electrified path was important to attract new manufacturers, citing Honda’s return and Audi’s arrival, a company with recent experience in electric technology competitions: “I go back to the fact that this change was linked to a reason, and that was a vital reason,” Domenicali said. “Otherwise, we wouldn’t be here talking about another sport. So, that was adjusted.”
Although Formula 1 has adopted electrification, the category also included sustainable fuels in the new regulations. The goal is to make races cleaner without completely abandoning combustion engines.
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