F1 News: Hamilton and Verstappen 'stirring things up'

(GMM) Lewis Hamilton says he is enjoying Formula 1 more than ever under the controversial 2026 regulations – despite ongoing criticism from Max Verstappen. Guenther Steiner (pictured) weighs in and so does our Editor.

While Verstappen has repeatedly slammed the new era for its heavy energy management and lift-and-coast characteristics, Hamilton says the on-track product reminds him of his early racing days.

“If you go back to karting, it’s exactly the same – it goes back and forth, back and forth,” he said.

“This is what racing should be – not one maneuver and that’s it.”

Editor’s Note: Old man Lewis Hamilton likes the new F1 cars that require you to lift and coast on the straights. It’s likely because it gives him a chance to rest his aging body! Lift and coast is not racing. At Suzuka the cars are losing on average 50kph of speed between the entry of the 130r and the entry of the final chicane due to superclipping.

The drivers have no battery left for almost the whole third sector, having to downshift from 8th to 7th gear at full throttle. Welcome to the Frankenstein Car era of Formula 1. Lewis Hamilton likes this? What a joke!

The contrasting views have sparked debate across the paddock, with former Haas team boss Gunther Steiner suggesting both sides may be influenced by competitiveness and politics rather than principle.

“I’m sure both are trying to stir things up,” Steiner told Sport Bild.

“Of course, they listen to the drivers, but in the end, the FIA and the teams decide on the regulations together – not the drivers.”

Steiner pointed to the current competitive picture as a key factor.

“Hamilton is in a significantly better position this year and has a competitive car – that’s why he’s satisfied. If Verstappen is back at the front, he’ll probably assess the rules differently,” he said.