Max Verstappen has been very vocal about his disapproval of the 2026 F1 regulations, calling them “anti-racing, ” “Mario Kart”, and even comparing them with Formula E. On the other hand, Lewis Hamilton, who has been around the racing scene for a long time and is probably more familiar with this generation, expressed a more positive and balanced view; he seems to be open to the new generation of cars.
Before the Japanese Grand Prix, he was asked why he is a fan of the new cars, to which he answered: “I don’t love it, even though I have to say that I love it, but I’m really enjoying racing. Of course, when you have a good car, and you’re competitive, it’s nice to be out in front.”
#F1 I thought Lando Norris was joking but it wasn’t him but the software that decided to overtake Lewis Hamilton. If this is seriously the case, F1 is in deep trouble. Max Verstappen said something along the same lines about his move on Pierre Gasly. #MsportXtra pic.twitter.com/dQjgxdNemh
— #MsportXtra © (@MsportXtra) March 31, 2026
Hamilton Believes F1’s New Era Is Thriving Despite Controversial Regulations
He further gave his thoughts on why Verstappen is not happy with the new cars. “Max has had that for the last four or five years. It’s been pretty smooth sailing for him. This is the first year, but I can’t answer that. He’s not enjoying it as much. It’s definitely a lot different. I think a lot of drivers aren’t enjoying it, but I personally am. It’s a lighter car. They’re more nimble.”
Hamilton acknowledged some elements he isn’t fully fond of, like the power deployment and active aerodynamics, but emphasised the excitement they bring to the sport.
“Visually and brand-wise, F1 has never been healthier. The F1 movie did amazingly at the Oscars. We’re having great battles now instead of just watching cars circle the track. Everyone has an opinion when you change the car—you can’t please everyone—but we’re having the chance to fight for wins, and that’s what makes it enjoyable.”
Hamilton finished by saying that, though new rules are a bone of contention for some, the sport overall is flourishing. He asserted that even if particular drivers would find it hard to change, the level of thrill and competition in F1 is at an all-time high. Given the closer encounters, more overtaking, and fans’ complete attention, the new cars are motivating drivers to give their best. Hamilton thinks that these modifications along with the worldwide rise in F1’s popularity and its impact on culture (e.g. the famous F1 movie winning an Oscar) are signs of the sport’s golden age, when invention, entertainment, and the rivalry of the competitors will keep attracting people all over the world.
