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MotoGP

Upset F1 fans threaten to switch off and watch MotoGP over controversial new rules

14:30, 17 Feb
Updated: 16:03, 17 Feb
1 Comments

There has been no shortage of controversy surrounding the new 2026 F1 regulation changes, with some fans claiming they will turn their attention to MotoGP this year for exciting racing.

The focus on energy management and deployment has irked much of the F1 paddock, including Max Verstappen who has been very critical of the new regulations.

Verstappen is hardly alone in his assessment, with Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc and Oscar Piastri also giving similar verdicts.

Even George Russell, whose Mercedes team appear to be the best-placed to capitalize on the new changes, has described the new battery management as 'pretty brutal'.

Fans have also expressed mixed opinions on the changes with many feeling that the cars appear underpowered and impotent compared to prior years.

"Don't bother watching, nothing ever happens on track in F1 these days anyway. Watch MotoGP instead, it's way better and way more fun." remarked one fan on X.

"Billionaires meddling with ethics and propaganda destroy everything to benefit themselves .. F1 is now based on calculations and involve less guts/skill of the driver. Maybe have influencers driving next year. MotoGP it is!" said another.

X Fan reactions 2026 F1 regulations

Fans who are thinking of making the switch, or at least the addition of MotoGP to their motorsport viewing routine, will be keen to know that in 2026 the bikes will be running at a full 1000cc in what is the final year of these particular regulations.

However, much like F1, MotoGP will also be undergoing a regulation overhaul in 2027 with aims of reducing engine power and introducing more 'ecological' tech to the sport.

MotoGP is now owned by Liberty Media, the same company who owns F1, after a recent buyout of Dorna Sports last year.

While obviously well-intentioned, the changes to the top tier of motorsport on both four and two wheels have certainly not been welcomed warmly.

With 2027 on the horizon, this could be the last year fans get to see MotoGP bikes genuinely pushing to the limit and breaking records for quite a few years.

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