Max Verstappen has voiced concerns about the 2026 Formula 1 regulations, particularly regarding energy management and the self-learning power unit. He agrees with Oscar Piastri's criticism that drivers can be disadvantaged by algorithms that adapt over time, leading to penalties for even slight input variations or factors outside their control like wind changes.

Verstappen believes his past criticisms of these regulations have become more understood over time, stating, "I care about the product." He argues that the current system penalizes drivers for being faster in corners, as it negatively impacts their performance on subsequent straights. This, he suggests, neutralizes lap time and contributes to close battles between drivers and teammates, preventing the fastest from showcasing their full talent.

He also commented on overtaking, noting that it's sometimes achieved passively by rivals using their battery, rather than through driver skill. Verstappen prefers traditional overtaking methods, like braking zone moves, and feels the current approach, which can involve passing on straights due to drag reduction, is "not real" racing. He believes genuine fans recognize this difference, even if casual viewers enjoy the increased overtakes.