Stefano Domenicali stepped in to calm the paddock after Max Verstappen’s early criticisms of the 2026 cars. The Formula 1 CEO defended the new technical direction, reassured fans about the Dutch champion’s future, and urged everyone to observe the evolution of the cars with perspective rather than alarm.
The Verstappen controversy and criticisms of the 2026 cars
The debate started with Verstappen’s strong comments after the first laps in the Red Bull RB22 during winter testing. The Dutch driver described the 2026 cars as “anti-racing” and “Formula E on steroids,” criticizing the heavy hybrid component and energy management that forces drivers to recover electric power even during qualifying laps.
“F1 CEO and chairman Stefano Domenicali does not believe Max Verstappen would consider leaving the championship just because he dislikes driving the 2026 cars initially. After the first days in the Red Bull RB22 during winter testing, Verstappen described the 2026 F1 cars, which feature a much larger hybrid component than before, as ‘anti-racing’ and ‘Formula E on steroids.’ Due to the increased focus on energy management, drivers must recover significant electric energy, even during what should be full-throttle qualifying laps, which he believes goes against the essence of F1. The Dutchman has previously stated he would not stay in F1 beyond his current Red Bull contract, expiring in 2028, especially if he dislikes the new cars, and in Bahrain he confirmed that this regulation ‘does not help’ his willingness to stay in F1 long-term.”
Verstappen later softened his tone but reiterated his preference for a different set of rules. “He later clarified that ‘not enjoying something doesn’t mean I don’t want to do it. As a purist and motorsport fan, I would prefer different rules, but this is how it is. I will try to make the most of it. I love working with the team and our engine. These are the fun parts. Would I prefer different rules? Yes, but this is reality.'”
Domenicali reassures: “Max loves F1, he’s not leaving”
Domenicali addressed speculation directly, stating that Verstappen’s future in F1 is not in question. The CEO emphasized his close relationship with the three-time world champion and noted that Verstappen’s feedback is a natural part of the development process.
“Speaking to select media, including Motorsport.com, F1 boss Domenicali strongly rejected any suggestion that Verstappen’s F1 future is at risk due to radical rule changes. ‘I’ve met all the drivers. I met Max yesterday,’ Stefano Domenicali said. ‘I can assure you that Max loves and cares about F1 more than anyone else. He has his own way of expressing what he wants to say, but we had a very constructive meeting, also involving the federation and teams, to highlight his perspective on what needs to be done to keep driver talent at the center without changing the approach. When asked why he was so confident Verstappen wouldn’t leave the series in the short term, Stefano Domenicali replied: “Because I have a great relationship with Max. I know him very well and spend a lot of time with him. That’s why. And he loves Formula 1, no doubt about it.'”
The Italian executive also highlighted that drivers’ opinions are already improving as teams and engineers optimize the new cars. “the former Ferrari team boss suggested that drivers’ feedback has become more positive as they and their teams have had more time to fine-tune car setups, energy distribution methods, and driving techniques. F1 has a history of new regulatory eras that present different driving challenges. Lando Norris, Lewis Hamilton, and George Russell are among those who have said that the 2026 cars, being lighter, smaller, and more agile, make driving more enjoyable.”
Technology evolves, and so does driving style
“We must not forget that the evolution of car technology requires, naturally, a different way of driving the car,” Stefano Domenicali said. “I fully agree that everyone is showing a very constructive attitude. Comments from the first day are already different from those on the third day of driving. The situation will continue to evolve. I am fairly confident that when we meet mid-season or at the end of the year, you will see a different picture.”
Stefano Domenicali does not downplay Verstappen’s concerns but places them in a broader context: every technical revolution brings resistance, adaptation, and new opportunities. The F1 CEO sees a paddock already more constructive, drivers beginning to better understand the 2026 cars, and a champion like Verstappen far from leaving. The season has just begun, and for Domenicali, the final judgment will come only when the track has truly spoken.
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