Not Pure Racing Anymore’ — Verstappen Blasts F1 following Canadian Gp pod… see details in comment
Max Verstappen has reignited debate over Formula 1’s current technical direction after criticising the sport as increasingly “anti-racing,” following an intense Canadian Grand Prix battle in which he finished on the podium.
Despite a difficult qualifying session in Montreal, Verstappen recovered strongly during the race to secure third place, marking his first podium finish of the 2026 season. The race itself featured several dramatic phases, particularly a late-race duel between Verstappen and Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton, which became one of the standout moments for fans.
Earlier in the race, the fight for victory was shaped by misfortune for Mercedes driver George Russell, who retired due to a battery failure. His exit removed a key contender from the front-running battle, leaving McLaren’s Kimi Antonelli to consolidate his position at the front and control the race pace.
As the race entered its closing stages, attention shifted to the intense scrap for second place between Hamilton and Verstappen. The two former championship rivals delivered a tense and closely fought duel that entertained spectators in the final laps. The decisive moment came on lap 62 when Hamilton executed a bold overtake on the outside of Turn 1, a move that ultimately secured him second place and marked a strong result in his Ferrari campaign. Hamilton appeared visibly satisfied after the race, celebrating one of his most competitive finishes of the season.
Verstappen, however, offered a far more critical assessment of both the race and the current generation of Formula 1 machinery. Known for his outspoken views on technical regulations, he reiterated his belief that modern F1 cars do not deliver the kind of pure racing experience he values. He contrasted the current formula with other forms of motorsport he considers more “natural” and less influenced by artificial performance systems.
According to Verstappen, the balance between electrical deployment and engine power remains a key concern. He suggested that a 60-40 power split would be a more acceptable direction for him, arguing that such a configuration would improve the quality of racing and driver feel. He expressed frustration with what he sees as an over-managed driving experience, claiming it reduces spontaneity in overtaking and overall race craft.
While careful not to be overly negative immediately after the event, Verstappen still emphasised his dissatisfaction, stating that driving in the current regulations feels restrictive and less authentic compared to other racing categories he has experienced. He described modern Formula 1 as leaning toward “anti-driving” and “anti-racing,” suggesting that the essence of competition has been diluted.
He concluded by expressing hope that future regulatory changes could restore a more traditional racing feel, allowing drivers greater control and producing more natural wheel-to-wheel battles. Despite finishing on the podium, Verstappen’s comments ensured that the Canadian Grand Prix would be remembered not only for on-track action, but also for renewed controversy over the direction of Formula 1’s sporting philosophy.