Max Verstappen’s comments about the new 2026 Formula 1 cars have made headlines worldwide. The four-time world champion described his Red Bull as less enjoyable to drive, comparing it to a “Formula E on steroids.” His criticism focused on the new balance between electric and combustion power, as well as the near-obsessive energy management now required in the sport.
Jeff Dodds, CEO of Formula E, was quick to respond to Verstappen’s remarks. With a mix of irony and directness, Dodds invited the Dutch driver to try a Formula E car at the upcoming Jeddah event. “Jeddah isn’t far from Bahrain, I’ll come get you if you want to try it,” he said, offering what could be interpreted as an elegant challenge. If the new F1 cars resemble a boosted Formula E, why not test the original?
Dodds emphasized that the next generation of Formula E cars — Gen 5 — will be even faster. According to him, these vehicles might approach F1-level performance, marking a significant evolution from the purely urban circuits that characterized the series’ early years. Formula E is moving toward faster, more iconic tracks, and its electric powertrains are being pushed to new limits.
The gap between Formula E and F1 continues to narrow. Several former F1 drivers, including Sébastien Buemi and Stoffel Vandoorne, currently compete in Formula E, bringing their experience from the Grand Prix paddock. Younger talents associated with F1 are also entering the electric series, further blurring the boundaries between the two disciplines.
According to Dodds, the skillsets required for the new cars are increasingly converging. Energy management, a fundamental aspect of Formula E, is now central in Formula 1 as well. This overlap may make the transition between the two series less pronounced than it once was.
As for the Dutchman, he has never driven a Formula E car and does not appear particularly enthusiastic about the idea. Nevertheless, the debate is now open. F1 is evolving toward a more electrified, strategy-focused model, while Formula E prides itself on having pioneered exactly this approach.
Whether Max Verstappen accepts the invitation or it remains a polite provocation is yet to be seen. What is certain is that the conversation about the roar of an F1 engine versus the electric whine of a Formula E car is no longer just technical — it has become a cultural discussion about the future of motorsport.
Jeff Dodds’ invitation to Max Verstappen highlights a fascinating moment in motorsport history where the technical paths of Formula 1 and Formula E are beginning to cross. While Verstappen’s “steroids” comment was meant as a critique of F1’s loss of raw character, the response from the electric world suggests that the future of top-tier racing will inevitably revolve around the very energy-management mastery that both series now share.
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