Following the regulatory changes introduced at the Miami Grand Prix, Max Verstappen has shared his thoughts on how Formula 1 could improve even further. According to the Dutch driver, the modifications made to qualifying in Florida failed to deliver the outcome many drivers had hoped for. While the changes may have appeared more visually appealing for spectators, dissatisfaction within the paddock remains significant, with several drivers still unconvinced by the direction the sport has taken.
“It still feels very strange. You still end up in situations where if you push harder through certain corners, you then lose speed on the following straight,” Max Verstappen commented. “That’s something we absolutely need to avoid. Racing like this at some circuits is going to be difficult.”
The Red Bull driver has consistently been one of the most outspoken critics of the new Formula 1 regulations. In response to the concerns raised by drivers and teams, the FIA proposed moving to a 60/40 power split between the internal combustion engine and the electric component. This would replace the original 50/50 balance outlined in the initial regulations, although in practical terms the real-world figure may be closer to 55/45.
Verstappen: “Going back to the 2025 situation would be ideal”
It was already known that more significant changes were being considered for 2027, including greater electric deployment and a further reduction in combustion engine contribution. The proposed 60/40 split had already been discussed, perhaps because it represents the maximum engine manufacturers can realistically achieve without being forced to design entirely new power units from scratch. For Max Verstappen, however, that does not go far enough, because in his view, increasing the electric component is not the real solution.
“We simply need to move away from that 55/45 ratio. At the very least, we need to go back to the previous situation [the 2025 one].”
“If we went back to 75% or 80% [meaning a 75/25 or 80/20 split] of the power coming from the combustion engine, that would already be a huge help,” Verstappen stated.
By contrast, the Dutchman has expressed appreciation for the current chassis regulations. Reduced aerodynamic downforce, in his opinion, places greater emphasis on driver skill and creates a more engaging driving experience, something many traditional Formula 1 fans have also argued in recent years.
Some critics have challenged the four-time world champion’s position, suggesting his views may be driven by personal preference rather than the sport’s broader needs. Verstappen rejected that interpretation, insisting his comments are focused on improving Formula 1 itself rather than serving his own interests.
“I’m simply thinking about how we can improve this sport. The fact that taking a corner flat out ends up penalising you on the next straight is something we need to eliminate,” said Red Bull’s number 1 driver with conviction.
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