Pérez reveals the 2026 F1 rules' complexity is baffling even drivers and engineers, fundamentally altering racing dynamics and the pursuit of pure speed.
The 2026 Formula 1 regulations have drawn a chorus of criticism from drivers frustrated by the complexity of the new power unit architecture. Champions of the calibre of Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have been openly hostile toward the new-era racing, delivering some of the season's most polarizing comments.
Verstappen has gone as far as refusing to rule out retirement, citing his dissatisfaction with the way this new generation of cars must be driven. Others, like Fernando Alonso, have left F1 before — only to return.
Sergio Pérez, Verstappen's former Red Bull teammate, addressed the topic during an interview at a sponsor event: "This is a very different F1 — one that honestly nobody fully understands. Not the drivers, not the engineers. There is a lot to learn and a lot to adapt to, for both drivers and teams".
"But it does take away the one thing you always chase as a driver: going as fast as possible. Now, energy recharging is the most critical factor. There are moments in a race where you're going 80 or 90 kilometers per hour faster than the car in front of you, and you have no idea why," he admitted.
Drivers' Championship Standings After the Japanese Grand Prix
Here are the updated Drivers' Championship standings following the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix. Kimi Antonelli claimed victory in Japan, becoming the youngest driver in history to lead the Formula 1 World Championship.
Antonelli started from pole at Suzuka but dropped several positions after a difficult launch. While his teammate George Russell battled for the lead, a safety car triggered by Oliver Bearman's crash complicated the Briton's race. Russell pitted for fresh tires, handing Antonelli a free stop. Shortly after, the Italian passed Oscar Piastri and pulled clear of the field. The full standings after the Japanese GP are as follows.
Kimi Antonelli - 72 points
George Russell - 63 points
Charles Leclerc - 49 points
Lewis Hamilton - 41 points
Lando Norris - 25 points
Oscar Piastri - 21 points
Oliver Bearman - 17 points
Pierre Gasly - 15 points
Max Verstappen - 12 points
Liam Lawson - 10 points
Arvid Lindblad - 4 points
Isack Hadjar - 4 points
Gabriel Bortoleto - 2 points
Carlos Sainz - 2 points
Esteban Ocon - 1 point
Franco Colapinto - 1 point
Nico Hülkenberg - 0 points
Alex Albon - 0 points
Valtteri Bottas - 0 points
Sergio Pérez - 0 points
Fernando Alonso - 0 points
Lance Stroll - 0 points