Tsunoda hits back at Verstappen's 'numb' 2026 car claim

Yuki Tsunoda, who lost his Red Bull seat to Isack Hadjar for 2026, has shrugged off Max Verstappen's claim that the new-generation cars have made driver input less important. The 26-year-old reserve driver has impressed in two substitute appearances for Racing Bulls, scoring a point at Monza and narrowly missing out at Zandvoort.

Why it matters:

Verstappen has been the most vocal critic of the 2026 regulations, arguing that the cars are "numb" to driver inputs. His comments have fueled a wider debate about whether the new rules have shifted the focus from raw driving skill to energy management. Tsunoda's response offers a counterpoint, suggesting that adaptability and quick learning still play a crucial role.

The details:

• Tsunoda replaced the injured Isack Hadjar at Zandvoort and Monza, and will race again in Madrid this weekend.
• Verstappen pointed to Tsunoda and Liam Lawson's immediate competitiveness as evidence that the cars are too easy to drive.
• The Dutchman told the BBC: "These cars are numb to your driver inputs... It's really, really limited, like a choke hold."
• Tsunoda responded: "It's his comments... I'm not really taking anything from his comments and compare to my results. I think I've done a good job."
• The 2026 rules have already produced unusual racing moments, such as Lando Norris being "forced" into overtaking Lewis Hamilton at Suzuka and McLaren citing "self-learning elements" of the power unit at Spa.

What's next:

Tsunoda will get another chance to prove his point in Madrid, while Verstappen is unlikely to soften his stance. The debate over the 2026 regulations is set to continue as the season progresses.