Lewis Hamilton has once again praised the 2026 Formula 1 regulations during the Japanese Grand Prix weekend, while Max Verstappen’s frustrations with the same rules continue to simmer at an unprecedented level. However, Guenther Steiner believes that both drivers are primarily aiming to “stir things up” with their public remarks rather than engaging in genuine criticism or praise.
The latest F1 ruleset has sparked a clear divide across the grid and among fans. On one side are those welcoming the changes designed to enhance on-track excitement and place a greater emphasis on electrical energy deployment, while on the other are traditionalists who prefer the era of pure combustion power and the straightforward aggression it brings. This ongoing debate has become one of the key talking points of the early 2026 season.
Max Verstappen has emerged as the most outspoken critic of the new regulations in recent months. The Dutchman has openly conveyed his displeasure at the handling characteristics and racing dynamics of the Red Bull RB26, and he has not yet shown the same enjoyment behind the wheel that he exhibited in previous seasons dominated by Red Bull. In contrast, Lewis Hamilton has appeared revitalised since joining Ferrari after the ground-effect era concluded, embracing the rule changes with visible enthusiasm and a renewed competitive spirit.
Verstappen’s forthright nature in press conferences is well known, but numerous figures inside the paddock have speculated about why he has been so vocal about the rules this year compared to previous campaigns, when Red Bull’s dominance often shielded him from such frustrations. His candidness may stem from the challenge of adapting to a car and regulations that do not fully align with his driving style or previous advantages.
Guenther Steiner has weighed in on Hamilton’s comments regarding the new F1 regulations, suggesting that the Ferrari driver’s praise may be more about creating discussion than making a substantive critique. Steiner indicated that both Hamilton and Verstappen are likely engaging in a bit of gamesmanship with their public statements. According to him, Hamilton’s positivity stems from his current competitive position and the strong performance of the SF-26, whereas Verstappen’s perspective could shift if Red Bull returns to the very front of the grid.
Steiner told Bild that Hamilton’s satisfaction with the current rules is largely influenced by having a competitive car and being in a favourable position this season. He added that Verstappen would probably reassess the rules more positively if he were consistently at the front, implying that the Dutchman’s criticism is situational rather than fundamental.
Not everyone in the F1 community shares Hamilton’s glowing view of the 2026 regulations. Former Formula 1 driver and pundit Karun Chandhok has expressed disagreement with Hamilton’s comparison of modern F1 racing to karting. Chandhok highlighted that Formula 1, unlike karting—which is often a spec series—offers a wide variation in car design and technical performance, making direct comparisons misleading. He implied that Hamilton’s analogy overlooks the complexities and nuances of the top tier of single-seater racing.
Hamilton’s optimism may also be influenced by his current form with Ferrari. After claiming his first podium in red at the Shanghai Grand Prix, he appears poised to chase his maiden victory for the Scuderia, which would further reinforce his confidence and positive outlook on the rule changes. In essence, his praise for the regulations could be a combination of genuine satisfaction with the racing experience and the momentum he has built with Ferrari early in the 2026 season.
Overall, while Verstappen’s criticisms and Hamilton’s endorsements of the 2026 F1 regulations continue to dominate the media narrative, Steiner’s perspective suggests that both drivers are strategically influencing public perception. Their contrasting viewpoints reflect not only personal experiences with their respective cars but also an ongoing effort to shape discussions around Formula 1’s evolving sporting and technical landscape.
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