Micah Jonah
March 16, 2026
Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has criticized the sport’s new engine regulations after retiring from the Chinese Grand Prix due to a power unit failure.
The Dutch driver, who races for Red Bull Racing, was forced to return to the pits on lap 46 of the race in Shanghai after slowing significantly on the track.
Speaking after the race, Verstappen described the current Formula 1 racing format as “a joke”, arguing that the new regulations have negatively affected the quality of competition.
He criticized the new engine system, which places greater emphasis on electrical power and energy management, saying the rules are fundamentally flawed.
Verstappen said his criticism was not linked to his results this season, adding that he would hold the same opinion even if he were winning races.
The 71-time race winner has struggled in recent races, spending more time fighting for minor points than competing at the front of the grid.
His weekend in China followed a difficult outing at the Australian Grand Prix, where he started at the back of the grid after crashing during qualifying.
Not everyone in the paddock shares Verstappen’s view. Toto Wolff praised the on-track battles between drivers during the race, particularly the competition involving Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc of Ferrari.
The race was won by Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, marking the young driver’s first victory in Formula One.
Wolff said the sport remains popular with fans and argued that the current racing product is still strong.
Verstappen, however, warned that focusing too much on attracting new fans by making overtaking easier could ultimately damage the sport. He said maintaining traditional racing principles should remain a priority for Formula 1.
