Max Verstappen’s criticisms of the new Formula 1 regulations have reignited the debate about his future in the category. The driver constantly talks about leaving the sport and is already exploring other paths, such as touring cars. However, not everyone in the paddock is resigned to the possibility of the four-time Red Bull champion leaving.
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One of them is former driver Riccardo Patrese, who appealed to the FIA (International Automobile Federation) to promote changes and keep the Dutchman motivated. “Max has already said: if I don’t have fun, I can race elsewhere,” he stated. “First, let’s see what the FIA puts on the table to improve things. I hope they have the right solutions to make the drivers happy,” he concluded.
Patrese also highlighted that Verstappen would be unlikely to leave Formula 1 immediately, as he is still seeking competitiveness. “If he realizes that Red Bull cannot give him a competitive car, he will go to another team where he can compete for the championship. At least he hasn’t signed a three or four-year contract with Red Bull. It’s a frustrating season, but I think, before leaving Formula 1, he would like to try to have another competitive car and perhaps seek a fifth title,” he said.
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The Italian reinforced the driver’s importance to the spectacle: “No, we cannot lose Max from Formula 1, because he is the driver who makes the show much better. F1 needs a driver like Max.”
Still, he warned about the Dutchman’s strong temperament. “Max has already had many joys with what he has achieved. Maybe he now says: ‘Enough, that’s it, I’m going fishing!’ He has a very strong temperament; if he gets upset, he might as well leave. But F1 cannot lose him, and F1 fans cannot lose Verstappen in the spectacle,” he concluded.
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