Max Verstappen shares his thoughts on the new F1 engine rules after the FIA’s announcement.

Max Verstappen shares his thoughts on the new F1 engine rules after the FIA’s announcement.

Max Verstappen shared his thoughts on the ideal balance between internal combustion and electric power just a day after the FIA announced new F1 engine rules for 2027.

Like many F1 drivers, the four-time world champ has been open about his concerns with the upcoming 2026 changes. Verstappen, who is currently seventh in the standings after races in Australia, China, Japan, and Miami, compared the new rules to Formula E. He said it feels less “fun,” “anti-racing,” and “like playing Mario Kart,” even hinting he might retire because of it.

Others like Lando Norris from McLaren, Fernando Alonso from Aston Martin, and Lewis Hamilton from Ferrari have shared similar worries. Hamilton also thinks the sport’s bosses should’ve involved drivers more in the talks before finalizing the 2026 rules. His teammate Charles Leclerc has been critical too.

Some tweaks were made to the 2026 rules before the Miami Grand Prix, and more changes for 2027 were announced on May 8. The FIA said they reached a basic agreement after meeting with power unit makers like Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull Powertrains, Audi, and Honda.

According to the FIA, the 2027 rules would raise the internal combustion engine power by about 50kW, increase fuel flow, and reduce electric energy recovery system power by around 50kW. They’ll keep discussing details with teams and manufacturers before making a final decision.

Currently, F1 cars split their power evenly between internal combustion and electric energy (50/50). But with the 2027 changes, this could shift to 55/45 or even 60/40.

Back in 2025, cars used 1.6-litre V6 hybrid engines, mostly running on internal combustion. Verstappen thinks going back to a split where 75% to 80% is internal combustion would “help a lot.”

In an interview with Autosport, he said, “We need to move away from the 55-45 split and get back closer to the old hybrid rules. If we can get to 75% or 80% combustion, that would be much better.”

F1 action continues later this month with the Canadian Grand Prix on May 24.