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Lando Norris has rejected Max Verstappen’s suggestion that Formula 1’s new power-unit energy algorithms prevent drivers from making a meaningful difference on track.
Verstappen believes the systems, which determine how energy is deployed around a lap, limit the driver’s influence because manual control is no longer available. The algorithms learn the most effective way to distribute energy, placing a premium on clean, consistent and precise driving. In Verstappen’s view, gaining time in a corner can simply lead to a penalty on the following straight.
Norris offered a more nuanced assessment when asked about the Red Bull driver’s comments. He accepted that some corners have become less decisive, but argued that the strongest drivers can still find performance where it matters.
“There are obviously some corners that get a bit more eliminated, like Pouhon [at Spa], where last year you could maybe get close to doing it flat to someone who doesn’t do it flat, and you maybe gain half a tenth,” Norris told media.
“Some corners, yeah, maybe it tightens up, but if you’re a better driver, there are still corners to try and gain an advantage on everyone, so I wouldn’t say I necessarily agree with everything.”
Norris believes the driver’s contribution remains particularly visible at fast venues such as Silverstone and Spa. Even if those circuits offer fewer corners in which to gain lap time, he argues that a better performance through the available high-speed sections can still translate into an advantage.
The picture changes at the Hungaroring, however. Norris said the algorithms are not merely capable of confusing the driver; at times, they can behave unpredictably, creating another layer of difficulty in extracting consistent performance.
“There are certain things you need to try and do at times to try and help the battery,” he explained. Some driving styles may work better than in previous seasons, while drivers must also adapt to changed tyre characteristics and avoid being as aggressive with the car as they were previously.
Norris stressed that these demands are not necessarily universal. Every car behaves differently, meaning each driver must discover how to work with their own package. His conclusion is clear: the new energy-management demands have changed the craft, but they have not removed the driver’s ability to influence the outcome.
The debate follows Verstappen’s broader criticism of the 2026 rules, outlined in his assessment of the new F1 energy regulations.
He’s a software engineer with a deep passion for Formula 1 and motorsport. He co-founded Formula Live Pulse to make live telemetry and race insights accessible, visual, and easy to follow.