Fans rage at new F1 rules
Social threads are calling F1 “broken,” accusing the 2026 rule package of producing artificial overtakes, weaker high-speed cornering, and spectacle over skill — a running backlash already two races into the season (x.com)(x.com).
The season-opener in Melbourne saw a dramatic spike in passing — race weekend overtakes hit 120, up from 45 across the same event in 2025. (skysports.com) The FIA removed the old DRS system and introduced "Active Aero" plus formalised Overtake and Boost modes to let drivers change both front and rear wing settings and deploy stored electrical energy. (skysports.com) Several leading drivers have been vocal: McLaren’s Lando Norris called the racing "very artificial" and warned of a "big accident" risk under the new energy rules, while Max Verstappen labelled the package "terrible" and compared the spectacle unfavourably to "Mario Kart" after round two. (grandprix247.com) Fans complained that critical posts were being hidden or removed on social channels and some F1 posts carried community notes after the Australian weekend, prompting accusations of censorship. (gpfans.com) FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis confirmed the governing body would review the energy-management elements after the Chinese Grand Prix, even as Formula 1 leadership urged patience; reporting since then says any major alterations have been put on hold until at least Miami. (gpfans.com) The rule-shake produced on-track winners and losers immediately — Mercedes converted the new regulations into a 1–2 at Albert Park with George Russell first and Kimi Antonelli second, and Russell urged critics to "give it a shot" when asked about the new era. (planetf1.com)
