The team principal of Audi Formula 1, Jonathan Wheatley, has shared his opinion on the recent criticisms from Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen regarding the new regulations for the 2026 season. According to Wheatley, Verstappen’s dissatisfaction is partly due to the difficulties his former team has experienced during the first two races of the season.
Verstappen has expressed his frustration over vehicle performance, calling the new regulations ‘anti-racing’ and comparing them to ‘Formula E on steroids’. The Dutch driver has gone so far as to describe the situation as ‘terrible,’ stating that those who enjoy these changes probably do not understand what motocross is.
Despite Verstappen’s criticisms, other drivers, such as Lewis Hamilton, have expressed the opposite. Hamilton commented that the race in China was one of the most satisfying of his career, following an intense competition with his Ferrari teammate, Charles Leclerc.
Wheatley, who knows Verstappen well from his time at Red Bull, believes that the driver’s discontent is a reflection of the challenges facing his former team with the new RB22 model. ‘If you talk to the Ferrari drivers, they’ll say it was a brilliant day. If you can’t win, at least it’s important to compete cleanly,’ he added.
Moreover, Wheatley highlighted some positive battles on the track, indicating that the current competition is promising despite Verstappen’s complaints. He acknowledged that the driver’s comments are understandable, given his current situation.
Issues regarding safety and the expectation for new solutions from the FIA are on the table, as teams, including Audi, are willing to collaborate to adjust the regulations during the break in April between the grand prix of Japan and Miami.
Wheatley stated that the Audi team has shown openness to conversations with the FIA and is exploring different solutions to improve the drivers’ experience on the track.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
