The Mercedes boss acknowledges the drivers' criticism about electrical management, but maintains that the show has improved. An independent survey, however, shows majority discontent among fans.
The discussion about Formula 1's new technical regulations continues, after three races held in 2026, opinions inside the paddock remain divided. The latest to speak out has been Toto Wolff, Mercedes team principal, who came out in defense of the current cars despite acknowledging that some drivers' criticism is valid.
The most recent trigger for the controversy was Oliver Bearman's heavy crash at the Japanese Grand Prix, which brought a recurring problem to the table: the speed differences between cars due to battery energy management. Drivers like Max Verstappen have described these cars as "anti-racing" or "Formula E on steroids," while Carlos Sainz has raised specific safety concerns.
Wolff, in statements to the Austrian channel oe24, took a different approach. For the executive, the most important thing is the opinion of the public: "Not everyone is complaining, but some drivers have problems with the complex electronic management. The main target audience is the fans, and more than 90% of them think that we now have entertaining races: exciting and fun," he stated.
However, these figures contrast with an independent study carried out by Spanish content creator Víctor Abad, a Formula 1 specialist. His survey, which collected more than 41,000 responses, revealed that the majority of fans are not happy with the current state of the category, rating it with an average score of less than 4 out of 10.
Wolff acknowledges that there are opposing views and advocates for a balance: "We have to respect both positions: the opinions of the traditionalists who want the sport to continue as before, and those of the new fans who say, 'We like it the way it is now, and that's how it should continue,'" explained the Mercedes boss.
For the executive, evolution is inevitable in any sport. "We have to evaluate what is best for Formula 1 and its fans. For now, we see a clear direction," he stated. His position reflects that of a regulator trying to please all parties, although the reality is that the division seems to deepen race after race.
Meanwhile, Formula 1 is going through a forced break due to the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, action will return from May 1 to 3 with the Miami Grand Prix.
It will be there, with more practice sessions and races, that we can evaluate whether the discontent among drivers and part of the public moderates or whether, on the contrary, the criticism intensifies. For now, Wolff maintains his firm defense, but the controversy is far from dying down.