Formule-1 : Sainz calls for flexibility as Verstappen dismisses rule changes

Max Verstappen declares it's "too late" to alter Formula 1's new 2026 regulations ahead of the Melbourne race this weekend. The Red Bull driver believes the investment has sealed the sport's fate, dismissing Carlos Sainz's call for the FIA to remain open-minded about potential issues. Sainz emphasizes the need for a measured approach, suggesting they assess the new rules after a few races. The regulations introduce a near-50:50 balance between internal combustion engines and electrical energy, increasing battery management's significance. Drivers may need to adjust their techniques, even downshifting on straights. Verstappen criticizes the changes as “anti-racing” and doubts that proposed tweaks, like increasing “super clipping” from 250kW to 350kW, will make a substantial difference. Formula 1 enters a new era, with the debate on these radical rules just beginning.