Norris refutes Verstappen criticism of new F1 cars - ‘He can retire!’

Lando Norris responded to Max Verstappen’s low opinion of the new Formula 1 regulations by saying the 2026 cars are fun to drive and joking the Dutchman can retire if he likes.

Verstappen likened the new cars to “Formula E on steroids” during this week’s Bahrain test, and complained that they are not enjoyable to drive because they require so much management and don’t let drivers push flat out. Defending champion Norris was more positive when Verstappen’s comments were put to him, after being informed the Red Bull driver hinted the lack of enjoyment could impact his future in the sport.

“A lot of fun – I really enjoyed it,” Norris said. “So, yeah, if he wants to retire, he can retire!

“Formula 1 changes all the time. Sometimes it's a bit better to drive, sometimes it's not as good to drive; but we get paid a stupid amount of money to drive, so he can't really complain at the end of the day. Any driver can go and find something else to do. It's not like he has to be here, or any driver has to be here.

“It's a challenge, but it's a good, fun challenge for the engineers; for the drivers. It's different. You have to drive it in a different way and understand things differently and manage things differently, but I still get to drive cars and travel the world and have a lot of fun. So, no, nothing to complain about.”

Despite singling out Red Bull and Ferrari as quicker than McLaren at this stage of pre-season, Norris says having a more positive mindset is not behind his outlook, and that drivers are simply allowed different opinions on the new style of car.

“I don't expect Max is going to go out and not give a s**t. He's going to try and win, and Max is never going to not try. Just not going to smile as much, maybe. I guess that might be the case.

“It certainly doesn't feel as quick as the past few years, and it certainly doesn't handle as perfectly and those things. I'm sure if he came into this [now] and this was the F1 car he started driving, then he probably would say it's amazing.

“Compared to the older cars, it doesn't feel as pretty and beautiful to drive, but it's still pretty good. It's still early days of a regulation that's meant to be a good amount slower. But if we fast forward to the end of this year and head to next year, we're going to be going a lot quicker by then.

“Everyone can have their own opinions, and say and decide what they want to do. No one should complain about that or be upset about it. Every driver has their own opinions. He didn't like it, and I like it.”