Why is Formula 1 hiding comments on its X handle? Full breakdown of the controversy

The Australian GP created a lot of headaches for Formula 1.

At the 2026 Australian Grand Prix, Mercedes’ George Russell outclassed everyone to take home career-sixth and the first win of the 2026 season, a season where they’re currently massive favorites to win.

The 2026 Formula 1 season began in the backdrop of the new regulations focusing on smaller, lighter, and more agile cars featuring active aerodynamics (replacing DRS) and a 50/50 power split between ICE and electric energy. 

Despite the massive changes, only 17 out of 22 drives finished the race. However, a massive controversy broke out on social media after the GP when the F1’s official handle on X posted a graphic, showcasing the difference between the total overtakes from last year and this year at the Australian GP.

What transpired after the Australian Grand Prix?

Shortly after the GP, F1 via X (Twitter) posted a graphic showcasing the difference in overtakes from last year, highlighting the benefits of the new regulation. The post captioned, “Action EVERYWHERE you looked,” showcasing 120 overtakes in 2026 as opposed to 45 last year, quickly went viral for all the wrong reasons.

First of all, some users were quick to point out how the overtakes didn’t last long and, as predicted, became a swap battle between the drivers who had more battery to deploy. Others labelled it “Artificial overtakes,” and some even complained about bringing back the V8 and V10 engines.

Fans also complained about the overreliance on electrical power and less on racing and driving skills. However, the controversy exploded when F1 started to censor fans’ opinions, leading to more backlash as the original post even got communited noted on X.

“F1 is actively censoring the fans’ opinion about the new regulations, as seen in “hidden replies”. The community note reads.

What’s more, F1 appears to be doing this across multiple posts. Fans can verify it themselves by checking the hidden replies section on X, where most of the hidden comments criticize the new regulations and the sport’s management.

F1 refuses to hear criticism even from World Champions

Formula 1’s president and CEO, Stefano Domenicali, recently criticized drivers like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton for voicing negative opinions about the 2026 regulations.

Verstappen had previously slammed the new rules during Bahrain testing, describing them as “anti-racing” and even likening them to “Formula E on steroids.”

Lewis Hamilton echoed Verstappen’s concerns, criticizing aspects like lifting and coasting during a Barcelona test qualifying lap, noting that it went against the spirit of true racing.

Even reigning World Champion Lando Norris offered a far more critical perspective on the new regulations. “We’ve gone from the best cars in 2025 to possibly the worst”.

In conversation with Sky F1’s Martin Brundle, Domenicali was asked about big names like Lewis and Max being critical in the early going of the season.

Responding to the question, Domenicali stated that it’s generally wrong to speak negatively about the sport. However, he added that he remains open to feedback, emphasizing that the sport’s evolution will still reward the fastest and most skilled drivers.

“I think it’s wrong, in general terms, to talk bad about our incredible world that is allowing all of us to grow. And that’s the only thing that I will say is not right,

But, I always listen. Prudency. There is an evolution, evolution of driving. It means that the best driver will be able to be the fastest.”

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