Verstappen receives special invite after sharp criticism of 2026 F1 cars

Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds has also responded to Max Verstappen's criticism of this the current generation of cars.

Talking to GPblog, among others, in Bahrain, the four-time world champion sharply criticized the new 2026 Formula 1 cars.

Verstappen said: "I want to be realistic as a driver — the feeling is not very F1-like. It feels more like Formula E on steroids. The rules are the same for everyone, so you have to deal with that, and that’s also not my problem, because I’m all for that — equal chances, I don’t mind that. But as a pure driver, I enjoy driving flat out, and at the moment you cannot drive like that.

"There’s a lot going on. A lot of what you do as a driver, in terms of inputs, has a massive effect on the energy side of things. For me, that’s just not Formula 1. Maybe it’s better to drive Formula E then, right? Because that’s all about energy efficiency and management — that’s what they stand for. Driving-wise, it’s not so fun.”

Verstappen driving the new Red Bull car in Bahrain - Photo: Race Pictures

Dodds sends Verstappen a text message

While the Formula 1 teams are doing pre-season testing in Bahrain, the Jeddah ePrix is taking place in Saudi Arabia.

Therefore, Dodds suggested to Verstappen to come and join them instead. He is cited by Motorsport.com: "'You're in Bahrain, I'm in Jeddah, if you fancy coming here instead, I'll come and get you.' So I was being naughty when I messaged him."

For Dodds, Verstappen's words were not surprising. He continued: "Many of [the Formula E drivers] and many of the team principals contacted me to say it is a great opportunity for us.

"A lot of them are saying to me that it's great that he even references Formula E, because it's great for awareness. I think it's a good opportunity for us to show people what we're made of, and where we're going.

"What you'll see here is close combat, elbows-out, 150 overtakes probably in the race. So, if more people from his comments think, 'oh, I'll go and have a look,' great for me."

Follow the final day of the first Bahrain pre-season test of the season here!

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