In the latest chapter of the 2026 Formula 1 regulations discussion, Lewis Hamilton has praised the new rules as delivering 'what racing should be,' contrasting with earlier criticisms from Max Verstappen. Ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, the Ferrari driver emphasized increased overtakes and close battles, despite recent FIA tweaks to energy management.
Lewis Hamilton expressed strong support for Formula 1's 2026 regulations during Thursday practice for the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka, describing them as 'what racing should be.' The seven-time world champion, now with Ferrari, argued that the rules enable a 'yo-yo' style of racing akin to karting, featuring frequent overtakes and lead changes. 'If you go back to karting, it's the same thing. People are going back and forth... No one has ever referred to go-karting as yo-yo racing. It's the best form of racing,' he said.
Hamilton noted the cars allow closer following through high-speed corners—better than his previous 20 years in F1—and compared it to his 2014 Bahrain duel with Nico Rosberg. 'That's how racing should be. It should be back and forth,' he added, hoping other teams close the performance gap.
This positive view contrasts with early-season criticisms following the Australian Grand Prix, where drivers including Verstappen labeled energy management 'Formula E on steroids' and 'Mario Kart'-style, citing artificial overtakes and safety risks at starts. Verstappen called it 'a joke' and pushed for FIA changes.
Hamilton acknowledged not loving every aspect, like power deployment and straight mode with active aerodynamics, but praised the lighter, nimbler car as 'more fun' overall. Ahead of Suzuka—a fan-favorite driver circuit but historically tough for overtakes—the FIA reduced maximum energy recharge in qualifying and limited straight mode to two sections, aiming to enable better racing. Hamilton hopes these adjustments enhance competition at the high-speed track.
