Günther Steiner explains why Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen have opposing views on 2026 F1 cars. Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen have shown opposing views on the new generation cars..

After the opening two rounds of the 2026 Formula 1 season, Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen have expressed contrasting opinions about the new generation cars, capturing the attention of fans and analysts alike. The Dutch driver, Max Verstappen, has experienced a challenging start to the season. In Australia, he suffered a qualifying incident that forced him to start from the back of the grid, although he was able to recover some positions during the race. In the Chinese Grand Prix, however, the four-time world champion was forced to retire due to a technical issue with his car. These early setbacks have shaped Verstappen’s perception of the new F1 machinery.

Former HAAS team principal Günther Steiner, speaking on talkSport Breakfast on March 16, provided insight into why Verstappen and Hamilton have such opposing views on the 2026 cars.

Opposing viewpoints

According to Steiner, Max Verstappen has never hidden his opinion about the new generation cars. His criticisms are largely influenced by the lack of positive results and the technical difficulties he encountered in the first races. Günther Steiner explained that Max Verstappen is unhappy because the car does not behave in the way he prefers. The Red Bull car features a completely new power unit and advanced technology, which requires time for both drivers and engineers to adapt and fully exploit.

In contrast, Lewis Hamilton has expressed a much more positive impression of the new cars. The seven-time world champion, driving for Ferrari, secured his first podium of the season at the Chinese Grand Prix. Hamilton appears to appreciate the 2026 cars more than the previous ground-effect machinery. Steiner highlighted that Hamilton seems to have found the right balance and connection with the Ferrari SF-26, enjoying the way the car responds without the effect of ground force, which suits his driving style, similar to how he won all of his previous championships.

The difference in opinion, Steiner noted, is primarily because Hamilton is currently able to extract significantly more performance from his car compared to Verstappen. Being successful and in harmony with the car contributes to Hamilton’s positive view. Steiner added that it is natural for a driver to feel satisfied and confident when achieving good results, and seeing Hamilton back on top of his game is encouraging for the sport.

As always, the “feel” of a racing car is subjective, but trophy cabinets are objective. For the Ferrari man, the return to a more traditional handling balance represents a career renaissance. For Max Verstappen, the shift feels like a step backward into a “Mario Kart” reality. As Günther Steiner suggests, once Red Bull finds their feet and the wins return, the tone of the conversation may shift once again. For now, the Tifosi are simply enjoying the sight of a happy, competitive Lewis Hamilton.