Lewis Hamilton slams 2026 energy rules: “Motorsport shouldn’t be like this”. Lewis Hamilton opens up on 2026 F1 concerns over energy deployment rules.

Lewis Hamilton has admitted that Formula 1’s 2026 regulations still leave him with an unusual feeling, with the British champion openly questioning whether the current direction of energy management truly reflects what motorsport should be.

Is Max Verstappen the only one complaining?

In recent weeks, it has been clear that drivers have toned down their criticism of the 2026 Formula 1 regulations, particularly after some of their concerns were addressed through changes introduced from the Miami Grand Prix onward. Drivers were reassured that from 2027, the balance between internal combustion and electric power would shift to a 60:40 split, which appeared to restore some confidence in the FIA’s intended path forward.

However, the latest reports suggesting that some engine manufacturers and teams would prefer to delay the planned 2027 changes until 2028 have reignited tensions. Max Verstappen, in particular, has once again expressed frustration, even floating the possibility of retirement.

But a closer look at comments from across the paddock suggests Max Verstappen is far from alone. Even after the Miami adjustments, several drivers still appear uncomfortable with the way the new energy management system is shaping the on-track experience.

Lewis Hamilton: “It still feels strange”

Speaking during the press conference, Lewis Hamilton made it clear that he does not see the demands of the 2026 Formula 1 cars as something natural for drivers.

“What we are doing definitely doesn’t feel natural,” the Briton explained. “It still feels strange. The power drops, you open Straight Mode, the power runs out halfway down the straight, and the engine revs start dropping. It doesn’t feel like what motorsport should be.

“The engine should be screaming all the way to the end of the straight, pushing and pushing even more. That’s how it was in the V8 and V10 days. In the end, these cars are fundamentally better in terms of design, so we can race, get closer, and follow each other more easily, and that’s the best part.

“The power side of things is less exciting.”

Lewis Hamilton’s comments reflect a broader debate within Formula 1 over the balance between technological innovation, sustainability, and preserving the emotional appeal that has long defined the sport for both drivers and fans.