Driver unrest marked the second Formula One pre-season test in Bahrain.
Verstappen called the new regulations “anti-racing” and said the car is not enjoyable to drive.
He criticised the complex energy management and compared it to “Formula E on steroids”.
He again suggested he could leave the sport if racing stops being fun.
Lewis Hamilton voiced similar concerns.
He said the new systems are extremely complex and hard for fans to understand.
The 2026 rules introduce new engines, chassis, tyres and fully sustainable fuel.
The engines now rely on an almost equal split between combustion and electric power.
Testing times remained inconclusive.
Mercedes led with Kimi Antonelli and George Russell.
Ferrari followed with Charles Leclerc and Hamilton.
McLaren looked competitive with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
Verstappen finished seventh but showed strong straight-line speed for Red Bull Racing.
Norris rejected Verstappen’s criticism and said the new cars are still fun.
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff claimed his team set the benchmark.
Red Bull’s Pierre Waché downplayed his car’s pace.
Verstappen accused Mercedes of hiding performance before Melbourne.
A political dispute over a possible Mercedes engine loophole continues.
The FIA aims to resolve the issue soon.
Aston Martin struggled despite its new Adrian Newey car.
Lance Stroll criticised the engine, balance and grip after running far off the leaders.
