Dan Ticktum Joins Max Verstappen in Criticizing F1's Hybrid Era
In a candid interview following his fourth-place finish at the Madrid E-Prix, Cupra Kiro driver Dan Ticktum has become the latest motorsport figure to voice strong support for Max Verstappen's critiques of modern Formula 1 regulations. The Formula E star did not mince words when discussing the current state of F1's hybrid technology, particularly targeting what he sees as fundamental flaws in the battery systems.
'Absolute Rubbish': Ticktum's Blunt Assessment of F1 Battery Charging
Speaking to talkSPORT at the Madrid event, Ticktum delivered a scathing review of F1's pre-race battery procedures. 'Run out of battery halfway down a straight, they have to charge the battery before they start - it's just rubbish, it's absolute rubbish,' he stated emphatically. This criticism comes amid growing discontent within the racing community about the technical complexities introduced by hybrid power units.
The British driver went on to explain why he believes Verstappen has been increasingly drawn to GT racing outside his F1 commitments. 'I'm a BTEC version of him unfortunately in this sport, but he says what he thinks, whether it's right or wrong,' Ticktum remarked, showing clear admiration for the Red Bull champion's outspoken nature. 'I have to say I agree with a lot of what he says, certainly on some points in F1, which is why he has to go off and do GT racing, so he can actually enjoy racing.'
Environmental Hypocrisy Exposed: Ticktum Questions F1's Green Claims
Perhaps most damning was Ticktum's response to a fan comment about F1's environmental impact. When a social media user pointed out that 'Nothing about F1 is eco-friendly... just accept it and run some V10s,' Ticktum provided startling context about emissions data.
'Correct. V8s produced 250 tonnes of CO2 a year. Current engines 150 tonnes. Sounds good,' he began, before delivering the punchline: 'Then you learn air freight alone is 250,000 tonnes. So they sacrifice the sport for less than 1% of the total emissions. Just utter bollocks.'
This analysis suggests that while F1 has made technical changes to reduce engine emissions, the overall carbon footprint of the sport remains overwhelmingly dominated by logistics like air travel - a point rarely highlighted in official sustainability discussions.
Fan Support and Racing Future: Ticktum's Madrid Performance and GT Aspirations
The response from motorsport enthusiasts has been overwhelmingly positive toward Ticktum's frank commentary. Social media platforms lit up with supportive messages including:
- 'Dan is for the people and we love it'
- 'Always love Dan... talking facts'
- 'I hate the new regulations. Dan Ticktum is spot on'
- 'GT racing and prototypes are far more exciting than F1'
When directly asked by a fan whether he would consider following Verstappen's path into GT racing, Ticktum responded optimistically: 'Hopefully very soon.' This suggests the Formula E driver may be contemplating a career shift toward the type of racing he clearly finds more authentic and enjoyable.
On the track, Ticktum demonstrated competitive form in Madrid despite missing the podium. After topping free practice sessions, he engaged in intense battles with Jaguar TCS Racing's Mitch Evans and Porsche's Pascal Wehrlein before ultimately crossing the line in fourth position.
Reflecting on his performance via Instagram, Ticktum wrote: 'P4 in Madrid! Good job from everyone at @kiroraceco. A great event. Thank you to all the fans who came out - it was a really good showing and a great event for the sport. Well done to all at @fiaformulae and @cupra_official who made it happen.'
The Madrid E-Prix thus served as both a competitive showcase and a platform for Ticktum to articulate growing frustrations within professional racing circles about the direction of Formula 1's technical regulations and environmental messaging.
