Stefano Domenicali defends his F1 âdutyâ amid driver criticism
Domenicali stands by F1âs direction
Stefano Domenicali has defended Formula 1âs direction after drivers launched fierce criticism of the championshipâs new technical regulations, insisting that it is his âdutyâ to decide what is best for the sport.
The new power units generate 50% of their total power from upgraded battery systems, prompting concerns about how grand prix racing should be contested. Max Verstappen was the most vocal critic during pre-season testing, describing the high-energy management style as âanti-racingâ and like âFormula E on steroidsâ.
Fernando Alonso also questioned the impact on traditional high-speed sections, with drivers concerned that corners such as the Esses at Suzuka could lose some of their challenge and become âcharging stationsâ for the batteries.
The debate is part of a wider discussion around F1âs evolving power-unit philosophy. Domenicali has previously revealed that Verstappen was consulted on proposed 2027 power-unit changes, underlining the extent to which the championship is attempting to address concerns while protecting its long-term direction.
Roadmap agreed after driver discussions
During the April shutdown, drivers, F1 and the FIA held talks that produced a roadmap to increase the proportion of power supplied by the internal combustion engine to 60% by 2028. The objective is to reduce reliance on the battery systems without abandoning the fundamental direction of the new regulations.
For Domenicali, the criticism is legitimate, but the solution must be constructive and focused on the future. He said F1 would not silence its drivers, arguing that everyone in the sport should be able to express an opinion. However, he also stressed that someone must establish a clear path for the championship.
âWe are not here to put tape on the mouth of anyone,â Domenicali told media. âThe beauty of a sport is that everyone can have an opinion, but the opinion is an opinion. There is someone who has the duty to have a line.â
Fans remain the priority
Domenicali said the changes were introduced for a âvital reasonâ and that adjustments had already been made. He urged disagreements to be handled privately and constructively, warning that increasingly personal criticism could shift negativity away from the sport itself.
The 2026 regulations were designed to attract new manufacturers, a goal F1 has achieved through Audi and Hondaâs return as power-unit suppliers. Domenicali therefore sees his role as balancing driver feedback with the interests of fans and stakeholders.
âI have the duty to make a summary of what is best for the sport,â he said, adding that F1 must now look ahead and grow together âin the right wayâ.
Simone Scanu
Heâs 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.