Marko states that the 2026 regulations caused him to abandon the use of a second screen.

      Dr. Helmut Marko has stated that the controversial regulations for Formula 1 in 2026 have become so challenging to follow that he has stopped using a second live-timing screen while watching races. The 83-year-old Austrian, who has now retired from his role as Red Bull’s F1 advisor, has been a strong critic of the new hybrid regulations, which significantly emphasize energy management and battery usage. In an interview with De Telegraaf, Marko acknowledged that even seasoned insiders are finding it difficult to fully grasp races in real time. "Initially, I had two screens, but now I'm just watching on one television," he noted. "Having a second screen with times wasn't useful, as you can't tell who has a full battery and who doesn't." He indicated that the issue lies not just with the regulations but with the absence of essential information for viewers. "Formula 1 is no longer what it used to be," he expressed. Marko hopes that the anticipated shift back to simpler engines early in the next decade will help restore the sport's traditional essence. "I hope the V8 engines return soon," he remarked. Formula 1 is already planning changes for 2027 that will tilt the balance away from equal 50-50 electrical deployment to an approximate 60-40 split in favor of the combustion engine. Despite Red Bull's challenging start to the season, Marko maintains that Max Verstappen has the ability to deliver results that exceed the true capabilities of the car. "Red Bull may be lacking in comparison to other top teams, but Max still managed to qualify the car on the front row in Miami," he noted. "If he has the right equipment, he can add something extra that no one else can." Marko mentioned that Verstappen’s impressive performance at the sold-out 24 Hours of Nurburgring further confirmed this belief. In a separate conversation with f1-insider.com, Marko stated, "Max may be the greatest racing driver of all time." "He once again emphatically demonstrated that on the Nordschleife. The performance was certainly excellent for his reputation."