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๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท France /Sports

Norris Takes Pole in Hungary; Verstappen Criticizes 2026 F1 Rules

From Le Figaro · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Lando Norris secured pole position at the Hungarian Grand Prix by a narrow margin of 12 milliseconds over Ferrari drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.
  • Max Verstappen has again criticized the 2026 Formula 1 regulations, expressing concerns about artificial overtaking and the inability to make a difference in qualifying.
  • Norris responded to Verstappen's criticisms, disagreeing with his assessment of the upcoming rule changes.

Lando Norris claimed pole position for the Hungarian Grand Prix, edging out Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc by a mere 12 thousandths of a second. The McLaren driver delivered a stellar performance to secure the top spot on the grid.

This is not real racing.

โ€” Max VerstappenMax Verstappen criticizing the 2026 Formula 1 regulations.

Meanwhile, reigning world champion Max Verstappen reignited his criticism of the proposed 2026 Formula 1 regulations. Verstappen voiced his dissatisfaction, stating that the new rules would hinder drivers' ability to influence races and qualifying sessions. He specifically lamented the potential for "artificial overtaking" and the diminished impact of driver skill.

Norris, however, offered a different perspective on the upcoming regulatory changes. Responding directly to Verstappen's concerns, Norris indicated that he did not share the same reservations. He suggested that the new regulations might not be as detrimental as Verstappen fears, implying that drivers could still make a significant difference.

I can't make a difference in qualifying.

โ€” Max VerstappenMax Verstappen expressing concerns about the impact of the 2026 Formula 1 regulations on qualifying sessions.

The contrasting views between Verstappen and Norris highlight the ongoing debate within the F1 paddock regarding the future direction of the sport and the potential impact of the 2026 technical regulations on racing dynamics and driver performance.

He responded to his friend and rival Lando Norris.

โ€” Le FigaroDescribing Lando Norris's response to Max Verstappen's criticism of the 2026 regulations.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.