Verstappen: Spa and Monza will be the next to face challenges under the 2026 regulations.

      "Spa is a truly stunning circuit... but not with these cars."

      The criticism of Formula 1’s 2026 regulations is escalating at Silverstone, with former driver Heinz-Harald Frentzen calling for the sport to "wake up," as current drivers voiced their ongoing frustrations with the racing conditions. "F1, please wake up," Frentzen commented on X following the British GP qualifying session.

      The limitations of the new cars were again highlighted at Silverstone, with several drivers indicating that the regulations have diminished the classic challenge of navigating fast corners and executing bold overtakes. Fernando Alonso, a long-time critic of these regulations, pointed out that the issues have been apparent since the opening race.

      "We mentioned at the start of the year that these regulations would lead to this style of racing, where the driver’s role in pushing hard through corners or making risky maneuvers has largely vanished," said the Aston Martin driver. "Now, the front car needs more battery power; you just press a button and overtake. This is modern Formula 1.

      "You may prefer it or not. It likely makes the driver’s role somewhat less significant, but we can’t complain. The teams and the FIA believed this was the best approach, and now we must maximize the car's capabilities to win races, aim for the front, and prepare for the next set of regulations when they arrive. This is our reality now, and we have to make the best of it."

      Max Verstappen from Red Bull has also been advocating for changes in Formula 1 and the FIA throughout the season, with some adjustments already confirmed for 2027. However, the Dutch driver indicated that the current cars will still underwhelm at some of the sport's most iconic tracks this year. "This is how Formula 1 is right now; there’s not much that can change," Verstappen noted. "Spa and Monza will likely be more of the same. It’s unfortunate because I find Spa to be an incredibly beautiful circuit. But not with these cars."

      Verstappen acknowledged that challenging weekends under the present regulations often make him look forward to leaving the circuit. "You anticipate going home," he admitted. Conversely, despite Aston Martin’s struggles this season and the challenges posed by the regulations, Alonso—whose next steps in F1 remain undecided—asserted that his motivation is still strong.

      "Apart from engaging with the media, I focus on what I enjoy," the 44-year-old stated. "I collaborate with the team weekly to identify the car's weaknesses and work on improvements, all while staying united and pushing toward the next phase. It has been a tough start; it's repetitive to mention that, and I understand. However, we are very focused and determined to change our situation and are putting in the effort to do so."