Riccardo Patrese warns the FIA: “Formula 1 needs a driver like Max Verstappen”. Riccardo Patrese stresses that Formula 1 cannot risk losing Max Verstappen.

Verstappen unhappy with 2026 rules

“He’s throwing tantrums.” “He says this because he’s not used to not being in front.” Several prominent figures, including Gunther Steiner and Mario Andretti, have criticized Max Verstappen’s attitude, noting that the Dutchman has never missed a chance to express his dissatisfaction with the 2026 F1 regulations. He has even hinted at the possibility of retirement, claiming that he is no longer enjoying the sport.

Patrese urges F1 to listen

According to Riccardo Patrese, however, Formula 1 needs to take a hard look at the 2026 regulations, because—unlike Juan Pablo Montoya’s perspective—it cannot afford to lose drivers like Max Verstappen. “Right now, Verstappen is the driver who provides the most spectacle and makes F1 thrilling,” Riccardo Patrese told Grosvenor Casino. “The circus needs a driver like Verstappen; it cannot afford to lose him. He has a strong character and could even decide to leave because he has already achieved all the results he wanted and satisfied his ambitions. Verstappen has always been very clear that if the challenges and the joy of driving were ever gone, he would go race elsewhere.”

Exploring other opportunities before leaving

Regarding a potential departure from Formula 1, Riccardo Patrese believes that before leaving the paddock, Verstappen might want to race with another team. “We know he decided to stay with Red Bull this year to evaluate which team has best interpreted the new regulations,” added the former driver. “I think before leaving Formula 1, he would like to try driving another competitive car and perhaps aim for his fifth world championship.”

In conclusion, the debate over Max Verstappen’s future highlights a growing tension between the sport’s technical direction and its human element. While some see his complaints as a sign of a changing guard, others like Riccardo Patrese recognize that the presence of a generational talent is what keeps the flame of competition alive. As we move closer to the 2027 development cycle, the pressure on the FIA to balance these interests has never been higher, ensuring that the “pinnacle of motorsport” remains a place where the world’s best drivers actually want to be.