Wurz states that the GPDA is already modifying the disliked rules for 2026.

      GPDA chairman Alex Wurz states that Formula 1's drivers have successfully prompted changes to the heavily critiqued 2026 regulations, despite a more significant overhaul not being feasible. The former F1 driver acknowledged the considerable discontent from Max Verstappen and others, but noted that the controversy hasn't adversely affected the sport's commercial appeal.

      "There has been considerable dissatisfaction expressed by drivers and insiders," Wurz told Austria’s Osterreich newspaper. "However, that hasn't negatively impacted the F1 brand. Quite the opposite, the ratings are outstanding, particularly among younger audiences, who stay engaged until the very end. Yet, people often claim that today's youth have a fleeting attention span."

      Verstappen, the most vocal critic of the current cars, has often tied his future in the sport to whether Formula 1 can again become enjoyable.

      "When one of the key figures of recent years questions his future, it raises certain concerns," Wurz remarked. "Only he can answer those questions. I think he himself is uncertain about the future direction. However, I expect he will continue in Formula 1, as this is where we find the fastest and most exciting cars. It’s evident that the regulations are evolving in a way that aligns with his preferences."

      Wurz expressed understanding for Verstappen’s frustrations. "I can relate to him. Perhaps the regulations were modified too much and too swiftly," the Austrian noted.

      As the chairman of the drivers’ association, Wurz maintains that the GPDA has already played a crucial role in pushing the FIA and manufacturers to make necessary adjustments.

      "We are already doing that. Without the involvement of the GPDA group, the regulations would not have been revised," he explained. "However, for the sake of fairness to the engine manufacturers, they couldn't make radical changes all at once but rather incrementally. A lot will unfold in the next two years. The share of combustion engines will increase again, though a hybrid component will remain."

      On the racing front, Wurz conceded that his pre-season prediction of George Russell as the world champion seems increasingly unlikely. "Did I really back Russell?" he quipped. "Jokes aside, Kimi is managing the new car and energy management requirements remarkably well, while George is finding it challenging. Plus, Kimi is a great person and appears to have a lot of friends."