F1 tweaks controversial 2026 rules – but will they keep Max Verstappen in the sport?

The FIA have made a change: the total amount of permitted recharge on a lap has been reduced from 8MJ (megajoules) to 7MJ. The aim here is for the amount of energy that needs to be recovered to be less, so the amount of time required to recharge is also minimised, and thus “lift and coasting” is also reduced.

Additionally, F1 have made changes to the “super-clipping” phenomenon – when the driver is fully on the throttle but not deploying the battery – and the maximum limit is now 350kw (kilowatts) as opposed to 250kw.

One final change: the FIA have increased the number of circuits where an energy limit lower than 7MJ can be applied from eight to 12. These modifications won’t completely eradicate “lift and coast” or “superclipping.” But they should limit the requirements of drivers to do so.

The FIA say of the intended impact of the changes: “They are aimed at reducing excessive harvesting and encouraging more consistent flat-out driving.”

Racing – safety measures

Ollie Bearman’s massive crash at the last race in Japan came about because of a 31mph speed differential between his Haas car and Franco Colapinto’s Alpine in front. Bearman used the boost button on a corner with a full battery – using 350kw of energy – while Colapinto’s battery was depleted.

As such, the British driver took evasive action to avoid hitting Colapinto’s car, but then lost control at 191mph and spun into the barrier.

Ollie Bearman crashed at the Japanese GP (F1TV)

The FIA have made changes: drivers will still be able to deploy 350kw in “straight-line mode” zones, but not elsewhere on the laps (i.e. in a corner). They will be limited to 250kw in other parts of the lap.

In addition, the boost button will be capped at 150kw or, if higher, the car’s existing deployment level.

The FIA states: "These measures are designed to reduce excessive closing speeds while maintaining overtaking opportunities and overall performance characteristics."

Race starts

Ferrari have experienced an advantage at race starts over frontrunners Mercedes. They use a smaller turbocharger, mitigating the high turbo-lag other engines are experiencing.

All cars have to hold high revs for a longer period of time this season, which is why the new ‘blue light’ starting procedure was introduced.’ F1 has now made further changes to avoid massive crashes on the starting grid, as a result of cars not getting away cleanly at all.

In Miami, teams will trial a “low-power start detection system” where cars with low acceleration will immediately be identified. If or when this happens, the MGU-K will automatically be deployed to ensure a “minimum level of acceleration and mitigate start-related risks without introducing any sporting advantage.”

Visual warning systems, with rear and lateral flashing lights, will also be implemented, while cars will no longer arrive on the grid with depleted battery levels after the formation lap.

Will the changes keep Max Verstappen in Formula 1?

Time will tell!

Max Verstappen has criticised this year’s regulations (PA Wire)

Verstappen has spoken in depth about his disdain for the new regulations and the focus on energy management. These changes will, no doubt, help his cause for a more traditional way of driving a Formula 1 car – but they will not completely revert the cars to the status quo.

Excruciatingly, “lift and coast” in qualifying will still occur. Drivers will also still have numerous overtaking aids in-race, despite Verstappen describing the new racing as “like Mario Kart.”

The other obvious factor is Red Bull’s issues. His team have experienced problems so far this season in their new engine partnership with Ford and are currently sixth in the constructors’ standings. Verstappen is ninth in the driver standings.

This correspondent is of the opinion that Verstappen should take a one-year sabbatical at the end of this season, returning in 2028 with his (likely) pick of the teams and perhaps a further revamped set of regulations. The next few months, with the development of the regulations and Red Bull’s performance, will go some way to telling us if F1 can keep their star driver in the sport beyond this campaign.