Hulkenberg Defends 2026 F1 Engine Rules: 'If You Don't Like It, Don't Watch'

Nico Hulkenberg has fired back at critics of Formula 1's controversial 2026 engine regulations, telling unhappy fans bluntly: "If you don't like it, you don't have to watch." The new power unit rules, which split energy nearly 50/50 between combustion and electric power, have drawn heavy fire from drivers and spectators alike for forcing drivers to lift and coast even in qualifying. But Hulkenberg insists the racing has delivered plenty of action and that F1 must stay relevant.

Why it matters:

The 2026 engine formula represents F1's most radical shift toward electrification, but it has split the fanbase. Hulkenberg's defence highlights an ongoing tension between purists who crave the raw sound and aggression of V10s and V12s and the sport's push toward sustainability and automotive relevance. With the FIA already planning hardware tweaks for 2027 and even talk of V8s returning by 2030, this debate will shape F1's identity for years.

The details:

• Hulkenberg, who started his F1 career in 2010 with naturally aspirated V8s, says F1 “has to go with the times.” He argues that the first races of 2026 have been “entertaining” with plenty of on-track passing.
• Critics point out that the near 50/50 power split forces drivers to manage battery harvesting on straights and through corners, removing the thrill of pushing flat out. The FIA introduced energy management tweaks before Miami, but Canada is expected to be the first real test.
• 2027 changes: F1 has already approved hardware adjustments to shift the split to 55/45 in favour of the internal combustion engine, aiming to restore some driver aggression.
• V8 revival: FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has vowed to bring back V8 engines by 2030 with “very minimal” electric power. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff is open to the idea but insists electrification must remain to keep the sport credible.

What's next:

The immediate focus turns to Montreal, where the energy-hungry circuit will reveal whether the current tweaks are enough. Meanwhile, the FIA and teams are finalising the 2027 hardware changes, and the push for a V8 future will continue to stir debate. As Hulkenberg puts it, the sport has always evolved – and those who can't accept that may need to look elsewhere.