Hulkenberg Defends F1 2026 Rules Against Critics

Nico Hülkenberg says Formula 1’s first three races under its controversial 2026 rules have already been entertaining, and the Audi driver has delivered a blunt message to critics: “if you don’t like it, you don’t have to watch.”

Speaking to The Drive, Hülkenberg broke from the wider backlash around the new engine package, which has drawn criticism from drivers and fans over the roughly 50-50 split between internal-combustion and electrical power. Opponents have argued that it has made races feel artificial, increased the emphasis on energy management, and created safety concerns because of large closing-speed differences.

Hülkenberg did not deny that the rules have changed the character of the cars, but he argued that the shift fits Formula 1’s long-established role as a technological leader. “To be honest, it’s always been like that in F1, hasn’t it?” Hülkenberg told The Drive. “F1 is about leading in technology, and you have to go with the times.” He added that the wider automotive industry is no longer what it was “5 years ago, 10 years ago.”

For Hülkenberg, that broader evolution matters more than nostalgia around older engine formulas. He said F1 is “evolving all the time” and admitted he understands the appeal of the past. “Obviously, there are purists who love the old school and the sound of a naturally aspirated V10 and V12 - including myself! - but the reality is that it doesn’t work like that,” he said. Hülkenberg added that if Formula 1 wants to remain “a legit business and entertainment model,” it “has to go down that road.”

He also pushed back on the idea that the new package has made the on-track product unwatchable. “I think when you look at the racing now, the first three races we’ve had [in 2026], it’s been entertaining,” Hülkenberg said. “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.”

Formula 1 and the FIA have so far shown no sign of abandoning the direction of travel. After introducing tweaks at the Miami Grand Prix, they announced a further engine change for 2027 intended to reduce reliance on electric power and move the split closer to 60-40, a sign that the rules may be adjusted but not reversed.