Kristensen defends 2026 rules despite artificial racingNine-time Le Mans winner and Audi ambassador Tom Kristensen has defended Formula 1's controversial 2026 regulations, although he admits the racing can sometimes appear artificial. Max Verstappen, Hungarian GP 2026© Red BullAudi entered Formula 1 partly because of the new power-unit formula, potentially colouring Kristensen's support for the concept. However, Kristensen acknowledged that energy management has created problems at legendary high speed circuits such as Spa and Silverstone. But Kristensen, 59, rejected suggestions from Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso that overtaking has become too dependent on battery deployment. I see some bright spots in the 2026 season, but Kimi Antonelli is the brightest of them all for me, he said.