Karun Chandhok joins Max Verstappen in push for ‘pure’ driver-focused racing rules

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Max Verstappen has been brutally honest at the Bahrain Test with his views on the new regulations for the 2026 Formula 1 season.

After two days of testing the new 2026 Red Bull, Max Verstappen criticised the new Formula 1 cars because of the new regulations.

Verstappen stated that it is ‘like Formula E on steroids’ and that he prefers ‘driving flat out’. The latest Formula 1 regulations boast smaller, lighter, nimbler cars with shorter wheelbases, and reduced weight.

The power units have also been changed and are now 50% electric, running on advanced sustainable fuel. Cars also feature active aerodynamics, and DRS has been replaced with Overtake Mode and a manual Boost Mode.

Have the 2026 regulations made F1 worse, with Max Verstappen likening driving the new cars to Formula E?

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READ MORE: Everything you need to know about F1’s 2026 engine and chassis regulations

Karun Chandhok agrees with Max Verstappen and has called for rule changes

After Verstappen made his comments about the new Formula 1 cars being ‘not fun to drive’, he received support from former Formula 1 driver Karun Chandhok.

The current Sky Sports analyst took to X and publicly called for the ‘pure form of driving an F1 car’ to be considered when the next set of rules comes into play.

It is not only Chandhok who has agreed with the Red Bull driver, as Lewis Hamilton also believes the new cars do not have the ‘original Formula 1 feeling’.

When discussing Verstappen’s comments on the new regulations, Chandhok said, “Brutal honesty from the top dog in F1….

“Max Verstappen’s honesty is not coming from a driver who is worried about the rules disadvantaging him – clearly the Red Bull looks competitive.

“It is what it is now – the rules are set for the next few years but the “pure” form of driving an F1 car flat out in Qualifying ought to be considered for the next rules set IMO.

“Bahrain isn’t as tough a track for energy as places like Melbourne or Spa will be so wait to hear from him then!”

Could the 2026 Formula 1 rules cause Max Verstappen to retire?

There has always been speculation surrounding Max Verstappen’s future in the Formula 1 paddock, whether it be his future with Red Bull or racing altogether.

In the past, there had already been suggestions that Verstappen would end his F1 career at the conclusion of 2026. Although there is no official backing regarding these rumours, Verstappen’s public distaste for the new regulations could spark fresh speculation.

Despite retirement suggestions returning, it has been made clear at the Bahrain Test that Red Bull will still be at the front of the field, with Toto Wolff suggesting Red Bull has the fastest car at the early stages of the 2026 season.

During the Bahrain Formula 1 Test, it was noticed that Verstappen utilised an ‘aggressive’ cornering tactic. It is believed that the Dutch driver is taking certain corners a gear lower than his rivals, but sustaining high revs to allow his engine to recover energy quicker.