Driver unrest shaped the second Formula One pre-season test in Bahrain.
Max Verstappen called the new Red Bull “anti-racing”.
He said the complex energy management makes the car “not fun to drive”.
He warned he could leave the sport if racing stops being enjoyable.
Lewis Hamilton also criticised the regulations.
He said the systems are too complex for fans to understand.
He argued drivers now need advanced technical knowledge to manage the cars.
The new rules introduce engines with an almost equal split between combustion and electric power.
They also bring new chassis, tyres and fully sustainable fuel.
Drivers must constantly control energy deployment during a lap.
Testing times revealed little about true performance.
Mercedes led the times with Kimi Antonelli and George Russell.
Ferrari showed strong pace with Charles Leclerc and Hamilton.
McLaren remained competitive with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
Verstappen finished seventh but demonstrated impressive straight-line speed for Red Bull Racing.
Norris rejected Verstappen’s criticism and said the cars are still enjoyable.
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff claimed his team set the benchmark.
Red Bull’s Pierre Waché downplayed his car’s advantage.
Verstappen accused Mercedes of hiding performance before Melbourne.
Rival teams also questioned a possible Mercedes engine loophole.
The FIA will discuss the issue before the season opener.
Aston Martin struggled with its new car.
Lance Stroll criticised the engine, balance and grip.
The team currently trails the leading pace by several seconds.
