Max Verstappen believes Formula 1’s new power units have reduced the driving challenge, making high-level performance feel effortless. He described the cars as “Formula E on steroids” due to the unnatural energy management required, which disrupts traditional driving techniques like late braking and early throttle application. Verstappen cited Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda as proof, noting their immediate competitiveness despite limited prior experience in the Red Bull and Racing Bulls cars, respectively.

Lawson scored seventh at Zandvoort, while Tsunoda earned a point at Monza after narrowly missing the top 10 in the Netherlands. Verstappen emphasized that while talent still matters, the current cars numb driver inputs, limiting the reward for commitment and skill. He acknowledged stand-in drivers have historically impressed, referencing Nico Hulkenberg, Sebastian Vettel, Robert Kubica, and Alexander Wurz, but argued the 2026 regulations diminish the correlation between driver input and lap time.

Intra-team gaps remain visible—Lance Stroll trails Fernando Alonso by 0.300s, Isack Hadjar is 0.196s behind Verstappen, and George Russell is 0.130s off Kimi Antonelli—showing differences persist, albeit less pronounced. Verstappen hopes the planned shift in power unit balance—from 47% electrical energy in 2026 to 42% in 2027 and 40% in 2028—will restore driving challenge, citing his contract extension as rooted in hope for future improvements and enduring love for the sport.