Formula 1: Max Verstappen laments the lack of excitement in Formula 1 following disappointing practice sessions.

Max Verstappen, four-time Formula 1 world champion, states that his new car looks like "Formula E on steroids" after the second day of testing for the 2026 season in Bahrain. Verstappen's Red Bull, powered by Ford, finishes in 17th place. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) shines with the best time of 1 minute 34 seconds 273 milliseconds, followed by Lando Norris (McLaren-Mercedes) at 511 milliseconds behind. Verstappen criticizes the handling of his RB22, noting that "it's not very fun" and that the sport is losing its essence. The new regulations mandate engines that are 50% thermal and 50% electric, complete with a "boost" button. Lewis Hamilton calls on the FIA to ensure equality among teams in light of suspicions of a performance advantage for Mercedes. The surprise of the day: Oliver Bearman (Haas) ranks third, 1 second 121 milliseconds behind Leclerc.