Jun.7 (GMM) Even Max Verstappen found himself praising Formula 1’s controversial 2026 cars in Monaco.
The Dutchman and his father Jos have both been among the strongest critics of the new regulations, which have been widely mocked for their heavy reliance on energy management.
But Monaco’s unique layout largely removed those issues, allowing drivers to attack more naturally.
“This is how Formula 1 should be,” Jos Verstappen told De Limburger after qualifying.
“Not deliberately taking corners slower and all that nonsense – just full throttle.”
His four-time world champion son, who qualified P2 behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli, agreed that Monaco offered a glimpse of what the cars can be at their best.
“I think the chassis regulation is not that bad at all,” Verstappen said.
“In general, the cars being a little bit more narrow and stuff, I think it’s alright.”
He also welcomed improvements to visibility.
“I quite like now the vision on the front axle is a bit better around apexes again,” said the Red Bull driver.
Most importantly, Monaco allowed drivers to use the car more naturally.
“If you can go flat out and you can just select the gears that you want to use in the corners, it’s always going to be better,” Verstappen said.
“I finally felt just myself again in the car. That’s what then makes it more and more natural to drive for sure.”
However, not everyone was impressed.
Lewis Hamilton, P3 for Ferrari, echoed Fernando Alonso’s renewed criticism of the current generation.
“Probably one of my least favourites of all the generations I’ve driven around here,” said the seven-time world champion.
Hamilton pointed to reduced downforce, higher tyre pressures and lower mechanical grip compared to previous eras. “I remember when I was here in 2007, 2008, there was so much more grip,” he said.
“It was even more fun back then.”
He believes Formula 1 reached a high point only a few years ago.
“Maybe 2020 was probably the best period for us, grip-wise,” Hamilton added.
Alonso, meanwhile – right at the back – doubled down on his earlier criticism at Monaco. “There’s nothing to be done,” the Aston Martin veteran said.
“It’s what we have until 2030.”
The Spaniard suggested the sport’s ongoing discussions about future engine and chassis changes prove dissatisfaction with the current package is widespread.
“We’re talking about changing the engine for next year and changing the regulations for 2030,” Alonso said. “That tells you that nobody is happy with the current cars.”
“Whether the critical drivers are more vocal or not is their own decision. But in any case, it’s the same car for everyone until 2030.”
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES