Stefano Domenicali has issued a firm response to the mounting criticism of Formula 1’s latest hybrid regulations from drivers, urging them to “respect” the sport that has made them globally famous and financially successful. In a video interview, the F1 CEO made it clear that, while debate is welcome, public criticism must be measured.
His comments come amid increasing frustration within the paddock over the current generation of cars, which have divided opinion due to their complex hybrid systems and racing characteristics. His message was clear: drivers should not forget the opportunities that Formula 1 has given them.
“I told them: ‘Listen, guys. Don’t forget that what we are doing is possible because we have worked together to do things right,’” he said. “Respect a sport that has given all of us the unique opportunity to grow, earn a lot of money, and become globally recognised personalities.”
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Hybrid rules spark division
The controversy centres around the sport’s latest technical direction, introduced under the guidance of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).
The updated regulations place a heavier emphasis on hybrid power, aiming for a 50/50 split between electrical energy and traditional combustion engines.
The intention behind these changes is clear: to improve overtaking, enhance efficiency and modernise Formula 1’s technological image. However, the reality on the track has proven to be more complicated.
Drivers have expressed concerns about the behaviour of the cars, particularly with regard to energy deployment and braking phases. The differences in speed between cars during overtaking attempts have also been identified as an issue, resulting in inconsistent racing battles and, at times, causing confusion for drivers.
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Verstappen leads the criticism
Reigning champion Max Verstappen is among the most vocal critics and has not held back in his assessment of the new machinery. The Dutchman has controversially compared the cars to ‘Mario Kart’ and described them as ‘Formula E on steroids’, highlighting his frustration with their performance.
Verstappen’s dissatisfaction extends beyond the concept itself. He has openly described his current Red Bull car as ‘undrivable’ at times, fuelling speculation about his long-term future in the sport.
The 28-year-old has even hinted that he may explore opportunities in endurance racing alongside his Formula 1 commitments.
Despite the criticism, Domenicali was careful not to escalate tensions. He acknowledged Verstappen’s status and influence, calling him “the best driver” and emphasising that his opinions matter.
A delicate balance
Domenicali revealed that he has held multiple discussions with Verstappen to gain a better understanding of his perspective. Rather than dismissing the criticism outright, the F1 boss adopted a more diplomatic approach, emphasising the importance of dialogue.
“I understand what he means, and he sees things globally,” he explained. “I don’t want to fall into the trap of antagonism.”
However, he also issued a subtle warning. Given Verstappen’s status in the sport, his words carry significant weight, and Domenicali believes this must be handled responsibly.
“He knows that his voice carries weight,” he added. “And he must take that into account, because some people can misinterpret it.”
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Fan backlash versus F1 leadership messaging
Stefano Domenicali’s comments take on a different meaning when considered alongside TJ13’s recent reporting on declining audience engagement. While the F1 CEO is urging drivers to ‘respect the sport’, there is growing evidence that fans themselves are beginning to disengage, raising questions about whether criticism from within the paddock actually echoes a wider sentiment.
As the TJ13 analysis highlights, early indicators from the 2026 season suggest a sharp drop in viewership across key European markets, with some broadcasters reportedly experiencing declines of up to 49% compared to last year.
These figures point to a deeper issue than driver complaints alone. The dissatisfaction appears to be rooted in the regulations that Domenicali is defending.
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Is the sport ‘pure’?
The shift to 50/50 hybrid power units, which were intended to modernise the sport and attract manufacturers, has instead been criticised for producing artificial racing and an over-reliance on battery deployment. Much like the drivers, fans are questioning whether the spectacle still reflects ‘pure’ Formula 1. (TJ13)
If downward viewer trends continue, the pressure on the FIA and Formula 1 to address the core issues beyond minor ‘tweaks’ could intensify rapidly.
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Rule ‘tweaks’ are on the horizon
On the topic of ‘tweaks’, behind the scenes, discussions are already underway to address the concerns. Formula 1 and the FIA are using the unusual gap in the calendar caused by the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix due to geopolitical tensions to evaluate potential adjustments.
Key areas under review include energy management systems and the performance gaps observed during overtaking and braking zones. The aim is not to carry out a complete overhaul, but rather to make targeted ‘corrections’ to improve the quality of the racing without undermining the core philosophy of the regulations.
Any changes are expected to be announced soon, potentially before the Miami Grand Prix at the start of May.
As Formula 1 continues to evolve, the challenge will be to find common ground among innovation, drivers, and, most importantly, fan satisfaction. With strong personalities like Verstappen at the heart of the discussion, achieving this balance may prove to be as challenging as engineering the cars themselves.
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The fundamental architecture of the 50/50 power units was flawed from its inception. As Stefano Domenicali, F1 supremo, admitted in 2025, the resulting regulations were a “political” decision based on attracting more manufacturers into the sport.
Whilst the FIA working party on the next generation of F1 engines was formed in 2017, it was in 2020 that the first mention of the all-new 50/50 power unit was made. As the name suggests, the power contribution from the internal combustion engine would be 50%, as it would be from the battery.
F1 manufacturers mis-read the future of road cars
A bold new step into greater efficiency and the electrified future was the intention, yet increasing the current electrical output by three times was always going to be ambitious. For many auto manufacturers who did not believe in the coming of the EV revolution, hybrids would be the bulk of the future road cars they produced.
And whilst hybrids have become a transitional technology in the auto industry, they have significant disadvantages compared to either the internal combustion engine or full electric cars. They contain the bulk of both an internal combustion engine along with the weight of a battery and, given the average person is…CONTINUE TO READ THIS STORY
Craig.J. Alderson is Senior Editor at TJ13, where Craig oversees newsroom operations and coordinates editorial output across the site. With a background in online sports reporting and motorsport magazine editing, he plays a key role in maintaining consistency, speed, and accuracy in TJ13’s coverage.
During race weekends, Craig acts as desk lead, directing contributors, prioritising breaking stories, and ensuring timely publication across a fast-moving news cycle.
Craig’s work focuses heavily on real-time developments in the paddock, including team updates, regulatory decisions, and emerging controversies. This role requires a detailed understanding of Formula 1’s operational flow, from practice sessions through to race-day strategy and post-race fallout.
With experience managing editorial teams, Craig ensures that TJ13 delivers structured, reliable coverage while maintaining the site’s distinctive voice.
Craig has a particular interest in how information moves within the paddock environment, and how rapidly developing stories can be accurately translated into clear, accessible reporting for readers.
He claims to understand their criticism, but is still stubborn to accept that the system is flawed & therefore, has deserved all the criticism.