Max Verstappen has intensified his criticism of the upcoming 2026 Formula 1 regulations, explicitly warning the championship must avoid becoming 'Formula E on steroids'. The four-time champion voiced his concerns during a Bahrain pre-season test, labeling the new rules 'anti-racing' and 'Formula E on steroids'. This stems from the significant shift towards electrical energy, with a near 50-50 split between the internal combustion engine and battery power, increasing reliance on battery harvesting during races.

Verstappen fears this could lead to strategies like drivers deliberately downshifting on straights to conserve energy, mirroring tactics used in Formula E. When questioned about potential Formula E drivers transitioning to F1 or the all-electric series becoming a feeder, Verstappen stated: 'Well, let's hope not... I want us to actually stay away from that and be Formula 1.

So don't increase the battery. Actually, get rid of that and focus on a nice engine'. Verstappen emphasized his right to free speech, dismissing any notion of pushback from authorities, stating: 'We live in a free world, free speech and yeah, that's what I felt'.

His comments highlight the deep division within the sport regarding the direction of the 2026 regulations.