Max Verstappen slams new Formula One cars after Bahrain testing

Max Verstappen slams new Formula One cars after Bahrain testing

Max Verstappen has criticised Formula One’s new-generation cars, branding them “anti-racing” after the second day of pre-season testing in Bahrain on Thursday.

The four-time world champion completed 136 laps in his Red Bull, setting the second-fastest time of the day.

Speaking at his first press conference of the season, the Dutchman expressed frustration with the sweeping regulation changes that have triggered a complete overhaul of chassis and power units across the grid, with a significantly greater emphasis on energy management.

“To drive, they are not a lot of fun, to be honest,” Verstappen said. “I would say the right word is ‘management. It’s not very Formula One-like. It feels a bit more like Formula E on steroids.

“But the rules are the same for everyone, so you have to deal with that.”

Verstappen, known for his aggressive, flat-out driving style, suggested the new technical direction limits drivers’ ability to push to the maximum.

“As a pure driver, I enjoy driving flat out, and at the moment, you cannot drive like that. A lot is going on,” he explained.

“A lot of what you do as a driver, in terms of inputs, has a massive effect on the energy side of things. For me, that’s just not Formula 1.

“Maybe it’s then better to drive Formula E, right? Because that’s all about energy, efficiency and management.”

Red Bull is entering a new era this season, having parted ways with Honda and fielding their own factory-built power unit for the first time.

“On the other hand, I also know how much work has been going on in the background, also from the engine side, for the guys,” Verstappen said. “So it’s not always the nicest thing to say, but I also want to be realistic as a driver.”

Also, Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, also weighed in on the debate on Wednesday, urging the FIA to address differing interpretations of the new regulations to ensure all 11 teams begin the season “on an equal playing field.”

Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.

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