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This Formula 1 season has been dominated by discussions of the new 2026 regulations. The uproar from drivers and fans alike led the FIA to roll out a series of tweaks to improve the situation. However, there's more to talk about, such as the two new teams on the grid, including a storied German automaker that's conquered some of the most grueling racing disciplines, and a brand-new American team that fought tooth and nail to earn its place on the grid.
Veteran racer Nico Hulkenberg believes that today's complaints around the regulations are nothing new. During a sit-down with the Audi F1 driver ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, we discussed several topics making headlines, but specifically, I asked Hulkenberg what he would tell the fan who only complains about today's problems in F1.
View Price on Amazon"To be honest, it's always been like that in F1, hasn't it? F1 is about leading in technology, and you have to go with the times," Hulkenberg told The Drive. "If you look at the automotive industry 5 years ago, 10 years ago, it's different now; it has changed. I think when you look at the racing now, the first three races we've had [in 2026], it's been entertaining. It's been good to watch with plenty of on-track action. And I mean, if you don't like it, you don't have to watch," added Hulkenberg.
Hulkenberg's honesty is refreshing, and it comes from a place of love for the sport and his career. He nor anyone else wants to alienate fans by saying, "If you don't like it, don't watch." It's more about focusing on what's good while also chasing improvements on what's not.
After 272 race starts, and his fair share of bad luck and underperforming teams over the years, the 38-year-old German is finally in a position to start fresh with Audi, a team that, without a doubt, has all the resources necessary to eventually dominate the sport.
To wrap up, I asked Hulkenberg if he was enjoying himself, the team, and the car at this moment. His answer highlighted his positive mindset, which has certainly played a major role in staying in the sport for so long.
Source: thedrive.com
