Formula 1 triggers backlash over hidden replies on social media posts critical of 2026 rules

The controversy surfaced during the opening rounds of the season, most notably around coverage of the Australian Grand Prix and the Chinese Grand Prix, where all the FOM-controlled F1 TV paid commentators were allegedly instructed to push a positive narrative at all costs.

Foolishly, after a clearly 'fake' race, Formula 1 highlighted increased overtaking figures and positive race metrics. Beneath those posts, however, users began to flag what they described as widespread use of “hidden replies,” with critical comments about the new cars and racing style pushed out of immediate view.

Fans pointed to specific concerns around energy deployment and on track behaviour, including drivers appearing to slow on straights to harvest battery power. Several users claimed that under certain posts, the number of hidden replies exceeded those visible, fuelling accusations that Formula 1 was shaping the narrative around its new era.

Community Notes on X reinforced that perception, stating: “F1 is, once again, hiding replies, censoring the fans’ opinion about the new regulations.”

The issue appears to stem from Formula 1’s increased reliance on automated moderation tools rather than any formal regulatory breach.

Reports indicate that an AI driven system has been in place for several months, designed to filter abusive, offensive, or harmful language across its platforms. However, the system is now under scrutiny after multiple accounts reported that legitimate criticism, without abusive wording, was also being flagged and hidden.

A motorsport outlet familiar with the situation clarified the process: “F1 is not manually targeting negative opinions,” but acknowledged that non abusive critical comments were sometimes caught by the automated filtering.

That distinction has done little to calm the backlash, with fans questioning whether the current system is fit for purpose during one of the most contentious regulation changes in recent memory.

The reaction is tied directly to ongoing dissatisfaction with Formula 1’s 2026 technical overhaul.

The new rules introduce a greater reliance on electrical energy within the power unit and significant aerodynamic and chassis changes. While intended to improve efficiency and sustainability, they have altered the driving profile of the cars, placing greater emphasis on energy management.

Drivers have already voiced concerns. Verstappen delivered one of the strongest assessments: “anti racing” and likened elements of the new generation to “Formula E on steroids.”

That sentiment has been echoed across the fanbase, with criticism focused on reduced engine presence, inconsistent on track speeds, and a perceived loss of raw racing intensity.

The clash highlights a growing tension between Formula 1’s promotion of its new era and the reaction from its core audience.

On one side, official messaging continues to emphasise closer racing and improved overtaking data. On the other, fans and some drivers are questioning whether the spectacle matches those claims, both on track and in how it is presented.

Accusations have even extended to claims that broadcast and social media clips selectively frame the action to reinforce a more positive picture of the regulations.

Formula 1 has not issued a detailed statement addressing the hidden replies directly, beyond confirming the use of moderation tools to maintain civil discourse.

For now, the debate continues to build, exposing the delicate balance between protecting online spaces and allowing open criticism at a time when the sport is undergoing one of its most radical technical resets.