Present F1 world champion Lando Norris has stated that if Max Verstappen does not just like the 2026 automobile, he “does not care if he retires” after sturdy criticism from the Dutchman.
The brand new automobile laws for the 2026 season have to this point attracted combined reactions from drivers after being pushed within the Barcelona shakedown and the primary two days of testing in Bahrain.
On Wednesday, Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton stated he felt the brand new automobile was “slower than GP2”, whereas Purple Bull’s Max Verstappen gave a scathing evaluation of the brand new automobile on Thursday.
Verstappen stated the 2026 automobile is “Method E on steroids,” and whereas calling the laws “anti-racing,” he additionally referred to the vitality administration required for laps.
The Dutchman has beforehand stated he would contemplate retiring if he didn’t get pleasure from racing in a brand new automobile.
Norris defends 2026 F1 automobile
Reigning champion Lando Norris gave a extra balanced evaluation of the brand new automobile at a latest McLaren media occasion, though he additionally stated it “looks like F2” in some components.
Nevertheless, when requested about Verstappen’s feedback in Bahrain on Thursday, he defended the brand new laws.
“It was (plenty of enjoyable), actually enjoyable,” Norris instructed reporters in Bahrain.
“So, yeah, if he desires to retire, he can retire.
“F1 modifications on a regular basis. Generally you drive somewhat higher, generally you drive not so effectively.
“On the finish of the day, we are able to’t complain as a result of we receives a commission a ridiculous sum of money to drive.
“Any driver can go discover one thing else to do. It does not imply he needs to be right here or any driver needs to be right here.
“It is a problem, nevertheless it’s a great, enjoyable problem for engineers and drivers.
“I’ve to drive another way and perceive and handle issues another way, however I nonetheless get to drive and journey around the globe and it’s plenty of enjoyable.
“So I am unable to complain about something.”
The primary Bahrain take a look at will conclude on Friday, with the second beginning subsequent week from February 18th to twentieth.
