Max Verstappen does not want Formula 1 to move any closer to Formula E, even though he does not want to disparage the electric series.
Max Verstappen described the new 2026 Formula 1 regulations as “Formula E on steroids” last week, expressing his aversion to the new driving style and energy management. He reiterated these statements on Wednesday and hopes that Formula 1 will not move any closer to Formula E.
“I don’t want us to get close to Formula E,” emphasized the Red Bull driver. “I actually want us to stay away from it and remain Formula 1.”
Formula 1 has a higher proportion of electric power in its new engines, which now accounts for around 50 percent—much to the displeasure of the four-time world champion. “Actually, you should get rid of that thing and focus on a decent engine,” he says of the more powerful batteries. When asked whether Formula E could become a junior series for Formula 1 in the future and perhaps even more important than Formula 2 due to its technology, he waves it off: “Well, let’s hope not,” he says, but emphasizes: “I mean, not because of the drivers – because there are a lot of good drivers there who could also perform really well here.”
But: “Formula E should remain Formula E, because that’s what it’s all about.”
Formula E “really cool car,” but …
Formula E boss Jeff Dodds invited Verstappen after his comments about the race in Jeddah and said that he would actually like the new Gen4 car, which will be introduced next season.
Verstappen wouldn’t even dispute that, but if it were up to him, the two series would be strictly separated—and both could exist in their own way. “I’m sure that the new car—from what I’ve seen and talked about with some of my friends there—will also be a really cool car,” said the Dutchman.
“But let them be Formula E, and we should remain Formula 1. We should try not to mix the two.”
Verstappen doesn’t care about the backlash
For the FIA and Formula 1, criticism from such a high-profile figure was naturally unfortunate because it made the press and did not cast the new rules in a good light. But Verstappen himself doesn’t care: “I’m just sharing my opinion,” he says.
“We live in a free world, there is freedom of expression. And yes, that’s how I felt,” he clarifies. “Not everyone has to see it that way, but that’s how I felt. And then, of course, it doesn’t matter what other people have to say about it.”
“I was simply asked a question and shared my opinion. I think I’m allowed to do that – so it’s not about whether I get backlash or whatever. I was just being honest.”