According to F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, the 2026 regulations have been controversial among fans. While some enjoy seeing multiple overtakes during the race, others have criticised the rules for their over-reliance on battery deployment and super-clipping.
Four-time WDC Max Verstappen has consistently expressed his frustrations with the new regulations, not wanting the series to become like Formula E.
In an exclusive interview with Autosport, Domenicali discussed the public’s response to F1’s 2026 regulations.
“Overtaking is overtaking” — Domenicali on fan response to F1 2026 regulations
Fans have criticised the new regulations for its artificial overtaking, citing that battery deployment and energy management are now more important than driver skill.
When asked about his thought’s on the reception of F1’s 2026 regulations, Stefano Domenicali agreed that the loudest fans tend to be the most negative.
“You said the right thing. And by the way, polarising is right, but the dimension of polarisation is this. These are the ones that complain, these are the ones that love it.
“So the dimension is definitely, in the biggest side of the polarisation, be positive rather than the other one. But, as always — you know me, by the way — I’m always listening and I think it’s worth to connect all the constructive criticism that we need to do. That’s at all level.”
Domenicali continued, reflecting that the racing in 2026 is not dissimilar to F1 in the 1980s.
“Therefore, I would say, it’s not a matter of what, I remember someone who said that, but in terms of overtaking, some people are saying is artificial. What is artificial? Overtaking is overtaking.”
“And people have a short memory because at the turbo age. In the 80s, I was already following quite well Formula 1. The lift and coast are using different turbo, different speed. And you have to save in racing because otherwise the fuel tank was too small. You couldn’t have the time. Maybe some of the old people are criticising or having some comments, have a short memory. So look back in the 80s at the turbo time.”
Domenicali on F1’s growing global presence
The F1 CEO highlighted F1’s growing global presence as a sign of success. Stefano Domenicali stated that the 2026 F1 regulations have made a positive impact with fans across the world.
“These things were there. And it’s part of the game. As always, the coverage is short. So you need to adjust in the right way. So, as I said, globally speaking, has been very positive reaction from the fans. That has been now interrupted by one month where we have not races.
“So I’m looking forward to go back with the adjustment that we need to do together in Miami to see will be the outcome of it. But the intensity and the attention on what we’re doing is fantastic. I mean, three events sold out.
“In terms of viewership, we are growing and we are getting higher in terms of numbers. And the attention on our sport has never been so good. So, as I said, take on board everything, but have a clear line on what you want to do for the future.”
