Former F1 supremo, Bernie Ecclestone agrees with Max Verstappen in that F1 is at risk of resembling Formulation E.
The Briton has joined the rising checklist of these fearing the game has misplaced its method, by way of taking the precise racing out of motor racing.
Like Max Verstappen, the previous proprietor of championship winners Brabham, believes the 2026 rules are taking F1 nearer to Formulation E, the Dutchman having famously claimed in Bahrain that the vehicles are actually “Formulation E on steroids”.
“The brand new guidelines definitely do not favour Max and his driving type,” Ecclestone tells RTL. “It is not a lot in regards to the racing any longer.
“The DNA of the game is that it is a drivers’ world championship and never an engineers’ championship,” he provides. “Formulation 1 is now competing extra with Formulation E.
“Perhaps the followers like that,” he suggests, “however I do not suppose so. The hazard is that we’ll lose the followers. I sincerely hope I am mistaken.”
Ecclestone, who was nonetheless on the helm on the time of the earlier main overhaul, believes 2026 will witness a repeat of what we noticed then, Mercedes domination.
“Mercedes has the benefit,” he says. “Russell has expertise, however he must exhibit his killer intuition all through the season to turn into champion.
“Mercedes-powered groups have a very good probability this 12 months, however I hope Ferrari could have a say within the matter too. Formulation 1 will profit if Ferrari wins the championship.
“I see Lewis not giving up, not desirous to cease earlier than reaching his objective. Perhaps this 12 months shall be successful. That will be an excellent story.
“I imagine Audi has all of the components for a profitable first 12 months in Formulation 1,” he provides. “The midfield groups are very shut by way of automotive pace, and Audi has an opportunity on this battle. I am assured Gabriel Bortoleto shall be a severe menace to Nico Hulkenberg. The younger Brazilian may be very quick and able to turning into a champion in the future.”
Nevertheless, within the meantime…
“There shall be chaos and confusion in the beginning of the season,” predicts the 95-year-old, “everybody must study Formulation 1 once more.”
