Driver unrest shaped Formula One’s second pre-season test in Bahrain.
Max Verstappen called the new regulations “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 voiced similar concerns.
He said the systems are too complex for fans to follow.
He argued drivers now need advanced technical knowledge to operate the cars.
The new rules introduce different engines, chassis and tyres.
The power unit now relies almost equally on combustion and electric energy.
Drivers must constantly manage deployment during a lap.
Formula One also introduced fully sustainable fuel.
Testing times remained difficult to judge.
Mercedes set the fastest laps with Kimi Antonelli and George Russell.
Ferrari showed strong race simulations through Charles Leclerc and Hamilton.
McLaren remained competitive with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
Verstappen finished seventh but demonstrated high straight-line speed for Red Bull Racing.
Norris rejected Verstappen’s criticism.
He said the cars are still enjoyable to drive.
He added that Verstappen will continue fighting for victories.
Toto Wolff claimed Mercedes had set the benchmark.
Russell called Red Bull’s pace “pretty scary”.
Red Bull’s Pierre Waché downplayed his team’s chances.
Verstappen accused Mercedes of hiding performance.
Rivals also questioned Mercedes over a possible engine loophole.
The FIA plans to address the issue before Melbourne.
Aston Martin endured a difficult test.
Lance Stroll criticised the engine, balance and grip.
The team’s new car, designed by Adrian Newey, remains far off the leading pace.
