‘Anti-racing’: Verstappen hits out at F1 rule changes as opinion divides drivers

Guardian Sport

by Giles Richards

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Formula One's new regulations have sparked mixed reactions among drivers as they concluded testing in Bahrain. Champions Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen expressed strong dissatisfaction with the new cars, criticizing their performance during the second pre-season test. Despite these criticisms, Mercedes emerged on top, with driver George Russell setting the fastest lap times, followed closely by Kimi Räikkäläinen. McLaren's Lando Norris, however, praised the changes, calling them "a lot of fun" and highlighting the potential for more exciting racing. The new regulations aim to enhance overtaking opportunities and make races more unpredictable, but drivers like Verstappen argue that these cars are less enjoyable to drive and do not meet the intended goals. Meanwhile, Hamilton's rival team, Mercedes, has shown strong performance, with both Räikkäläinen and Russell consistently finishing at the forefront of testing sessions. Red Bull, led by Verstappen, struggled slightly but remains a competitive force, with Verstappen securing seventh place. The competition between Mercedes and Red Bull is intense, with each team openly declaring the other as their main rival.

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/14/2026