Max Verstappen criticised Formula One’s new regulations after pre-season testing in Bahrain.
He said the heavy focus on energy management makes the car “not fun to drive”.
He described the concept as “anti-racing” and compared it to “Formula E on steroids”.
He again suggested he could leave the sport if racing stops being enjoyable.
Lewis Hamilton voiced similar concerns.
He said the systems are extremely complex and difficult for fans to follow.
He argued drivers need near-technical degrees to understand the cars.
The new rules introduce revised engines, chassis, tyres and sustainable fuel.
Power now comes almost equally from combustion and electric sources.
Drivers must constantly manage energy output during laps.
Testing times remained inconclusive.
Mercedes led the times with Kimi Antonelli and George Russell.
Ferrari and McLaren also showed strong pace.
Verstappen finished seventh but demonstrated impressive straight-line speed for Red Bull Racing.
Lando Norris rejected Verstappen’s criticism.
He said the cars are still enjoyable and that it is too early for conclusions.
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff claimed his team set the benchmark.
Red Bull insisted it was not the fastest and accused Mercedes of sandbagging.
A dispute over a possible Mercedes engine loophole continues.
The FIA is expected to discuss the matter before the season opener in Melbourne.
Aston Martin endured a difficult test.
Lance Stroll criticised the engine, balance and grip.
The team’s new car currently sits several seconds behind the frontrunners.
