Max Verstappen hits out at F1’s new ‘anti-racing’ regulations

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen remains unconvinced by Formula 1’s new regulations despite an action-packed season opener in Australia.

The four-time world champion has consistently criticised the new regulations since the beginning of the year.

At the centre of the regulation’s changes are new-generation turbo-hybrid power units that rely on both the car’s V6 engine and a powerful electric motor.

This requires drivers to manage the batteries more intensively with more lifting and coasting around a lap.

Verstappen said the new hybrid engines were 'anti-racing' and 'just not Formula 1'.

Ferrari driver and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton argued that lifting and coasting was 'not what racing is about'.

Formula 1 CEO and president Stefano Domenicali hit back, saying that, while F1 considers driver feedback, it was 'wrong' of them to criticise the new regulations.

“I think it’s wrong, in general terms, to talk badly about our incredible world that is allowing all of us to grow. And that’s the only thing that I will say is not right.

“But, I always listen. Prudency. There is an evolution, an evolution of driving. It means that the best driver will be able to be the fastest.”

For more details, listen to world news correspondent Vicki Turner using the audio player below: