The Formula 1 world is abuzz, and not everyone is thrilled. The initial 2026 F1 car tests in Bahrain have ignited a firestorm of opinions among the sport's elite drivers, revealing a stark divide between those embracing the new challenge and those longing for the past.
Key Takeaways from the Bahrain Test:
- Max Verstappen delivered a scathing critique, likening the new cars to "Formula E on steroids" due to excessive energy management.
- Lando Norris and Kimi Antonelli expressed enjoyment, highlighting the increased challenge, agility, and raw power despite less downforce.
- A common thread among drivers is the notable increase in sliding and a reduction in overall grip compared to current-generation cars.
- The new regulations heavily emphasize energy management, transforming driving styles and strategic approaches to cornering.
The New Era Dawns: Initial F1 2026 Car Impressions
After a discreet shakedown in Barcelona, the Formula 1 paddock in Bahrain finally opened its doors, offering the first unfiltered glimpses into the future of the sport. Drivers hit the track with the experimental 2026 F1 cars, designed under radical new regulations focused on a 50/50 split between internal combustion and electric power, alongside smaller, lighter chassis. The verdict? It's complicated.
Verstappen's Blistering Verdict: "Formula E on Steroids"?
Unsurprisingly, Red Bull Racing's three-time champion, Max Verstappen, was the most vocal critic. His assessment was blunt: "To drive, [it’s] not a lot of fun, to be honest. It's not very Formula 1-like. It feels a bit more like Formula E on steroids." Verstappen expressed frustration with the intricate energy management required, which he feels detracts from the pure, flat-out driving F1 is known for. While acknowledging the equal rules for all, his primary concern remains the fundamental enjoyment of driving at the absolute limit.
The Optimists: Norris and Antonelli Find the Fun
Not all drivers shared Verstappen's dismay. McLaren's Lando Norris presented a more positive outlook, declaring the new car "a lot of fun." He noted it's "certainly the most different" F1 car he’s driven, characterized by "a lot less grip, a much trickier car to drive, but more power." For Norris, this combination translates into a challenging yet enjoyable experience, pushing him to adapt to a new driving style.
Mercedes junior Kimi Antonelli echoed similar sentiments, finding himself "quite enjoying the car." He highlighted the reduced downforce but appreciated the "a lot more power on corner exit," which, while making long runs tricky, delivered an agile and responsive feel. The lighter, shorter chassis particularly appealed to Antonelli, offering a "quite nice to drive" sensation, especially in low-speed corners.
Gabriel Bortoleto: A Return to Junior Series Feel
Audi driver Gabriel Bortoleto offered a unique perspective, comparing the new machines to "the junior series." He noted the increased sliding and reduced grip, which allows for more driver interaction and
