Verstappen: Silverstone will highlight F1's battery issues once more.

      "It’s going to feel completely different from what we’re accustomed to."

      Max Verstappen believes the controversial 2026 regulations in Formula 1 will face renewed criticism at Silverstone this weekend, despite recent adjustments aimed at enhancing the racing experience. The Dutch driver has been one of the fiercest opponents of the new hybrid era, comparing some of the energy management requirements to 'Mario Kart'. After a significant upgrade from Red Bull allowed him to finish second in Austria, Verstappen cautioned that the upcoming circuit will reveal the remaining flaws in the regulations.

      "I love Silverstone," he remarked. "But after spending some time in the simulator, I couldn't help but laugh. Honestly, driving the new cars at Silverstone feels like an entirely different experience. You hardly have enough battery power to finish a lap."

      Verstappen pointed out that the layout of Silverstone complicates energy recovery. "It’s going to feel completely different from what we’re used to at Silverstone due to the circuit’s configuration. There are long straights and significant braking zones here, which enable battery charging. However, while Silverstone also has long straights, the quick turns hinder battery recharging. By the time the next straight arrives, you have very little energy left. It’s going to be quite challenging."

      Lewis Hamilton of Ferrari, who is gearing up for his home race, concurred that the new power units will be particularly tested at Silverstone. "There are many straights at Silverstone," he noted. "Numerous straights that demand a lot from the battery, but there aren't many opportunities to recharge it."