The 2026 Formula 1 season has barely begun, and there is already drama in the paddock.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has slammed the sport’s brand-new regulations, claiming they are so complicated that you “need a degree” to understand them.
The new rules bring a near 50/50 split between the internal combustion engine and electric power, lighter cars, and a much bigger focus on energy recovery and battery management. The changes are designed to make F1 more sustainable and strategic. But Hamilton is not convinced.
Speaking during pre-season testing in Bahrain, the Ferrari driver called the regulations “ridiculously complex.” He said even drivers need long meetings just to fully understand how everything works. Hamilton also warned that fans may struggle to follow races, as so much now depends on software settings and energy deployment.
He suggested that winning could come down to who manages their battery best over an entire race distance, rather than pure wheel-to-wheel action. Fellow driver Max Verstappen has also questioned the heavy energy focus, previously comparing the cars to “Formula E on steroids.”
But not everyone agrees.
Former Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz, now racing for Williams Racing, responded with a cheeky remark. “Well, I only have a high school diploma and I understand everything about F1,” he joked, brushing off the idea that the rules are too hard to grasp.
Sainz also took a more serious tone. He said drivers should raise concerns privately instead of publicly criticising the sport. According to him, complaining too loudly can damage F1’s image and create unnecessary negativity. If changes are needed, he believes drivers should work together with the FIA behind closed doors.
The season now heads into its opening rounds, with all eyes on how the new era will play out. Hamilton continues his Ferrari journey under the fresh regulations, while Sainz hopes to impress at Williams.
Whether the new rules make Formula 1 smarter or simply harder to follow is already a hot debate — and it looks like it is only just getting started.
