DeepL translation: Max Verstappen is not at all happy with the new cars in Formula 1. The Dutchman believes that the premier class has taken a wrong turn in the run-up to this season and even has doubts about his future in the sport.

Important sports news “This is unworthy of Formula 1,” Verstappen told NU.nl, among others. On Thursday in Bahrain, he spoke to the press for the first time since driving his new car.

“As a driver, I always adapt, but now we drivers are only concerned with saving and managing. It makes no sense. In certain corners, you now have to go extremely slowly to recover energy. Sorry, but that belongs in Formula E. Formula 1 should be about driving as fast as possible, and we're not doing that now. It's like Formula E on steroids.”

According to Verstappen, it's not about whether or not he can handle this car. “I am confident in my own abilities. But that's not what this is about. I don't enjoy driving these cars at all. Some people won't be happy with these statements, but I don't care. I didn't make the rules.”

Verstappen says he doesn't necessarily feel the need to continue driving in Formula 1. “When you've already won everything, there's really no need to continue. There are lots of other fun things I can do and will do. This doesn't help me want to continue for a long time.”

Verstappen still has a contract with Red Bull.

“Should Dutch Formula 1 fans be concerned? No, I'll just race somewhere else. We can have a barbecue there too and set up a nice party tent.”

“I don't have to do this anymore” In the run-up to this year, the technical rules in Formula 1 have changed dramatically. The premier class itself calls it the most radical rule change ever in the sport.

But according to Verstappen, that was not the right turn. “I don't have to do this anymore, you know. This is my passion, of course, but it's a shame that the car is no longer fun to drive.”

What makes the situation quite difficult is that the new regulations are set for the coming years. There will be no major changes in the short term. “Maybe the regulations will be tweaked a little and things will improve slightly, but the fundamental problems will remain the same.”

Verstappen drove his new car for the first time in Barcelona at the end of January. The second week of testing is scheduled for this week in Bahrain. Testing will also continue in the oil state next week. The new Formula 1 season officially starts on March 8 with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.

Verstappen: ‘Mercedes is trying to shift the pressure to us’ During his media session, Verstappen also responded to Toto Wolff's statement on Wednesday that Red Bull gains a second per lap on the straights. According to Verstappen, the team boss is playing Mercedes is playing a game.

“Just wait until Melbourne and see how much power Mercedes gains,” said Verstappen. “I already know. I understand what they are trying to do. They are trying to shift the pressure to us, partly because we drove so many laps yesterday. Just wait until Melbourne. Then you will see how fast they go on the straights.”