Max Verstappen✕ Michael Schumacher✕ ✕
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via PlanetF1
Verstappen warns Mercedes upgrade may shift competition Max Verstappen expressed caution regarding the impact of Mercedes' significant upgrades ahead of the Sepang practice session. Despite dominating the first practice, Verstappen acknowledged that the changes could alter the competitive landscape in Formula 1. PlanetF1 + 1 more Wed 30 Sep · 10:00 UTC via f1oversteer.com Max Verstappen clarifies his comments about F1 becoming ‘easier’ after Liam Lawson disagreed Max Verstappen expressed his views on the 2026 Formula 1 cars, stating they are 'numb' to driver inputs, which he believes makes it easier for drivers to find their limits. This comment came after Liam Lawson, who recently replaced Isack Hadjar, performed impressively in qualifying, being only 0.115 seconds slower than Verstappen. Verstappen's remarks have sparked debate, particularly as Lawson disagreed, arguing that adapting to the new car was not straightforward due to the complexities introduced by new energy management protocols.
Verstappen further elaborated that the current cars favour a cautious driving style, allowing many drivers to achieve similar lap times. He noted that the small gaps in qualifying times this year, with seven out of eleven driver pairings within two-tenths of a second, support his theory that the cars do not reward the fastest drivers as much as before. This marks a significant change from the previous year, where the average gap between teammates was larger. f1oversteer.com Tue 29 Sep · 19:30 UTC via RacingNews365 Engine guru confirms Max Verstappen was right: 'I already had this view' Max Verstappen has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the current Formula 1 power units, arguing that they require excessive energy management, making the driving experience less authentic. His concerns have been echoed by renowned engine designer Mario Illien, who agrees that the balance between combustion and electric power is flawed, stating that the current setup diminishes the driver's role in racing.
Illien, who has extensive experience in F1 engine design, supports a shift in the power unit ratio that the FIA is considering, moving from a 52/48 split to a 58/42 ratio. However, he cautions that while this change may improve the situation, it will not fully resolve the underlying issues. Illien reminisces about the previous power unit configuration, which he believes was more effective and better received by fans. RacingNews365 Mon 28 Sep · 17:15 UTC Last race · Round 15
Azerbaijan Grand Prix
+ 1 moreWed 30 Sep · 10:00 UTC
