Max Verstappen’s possible departure from Formula 1 due to the 2026 rules, in addition to Red Bull Racing’s current poor performance, generated an immediate reaction in the paddock. Oscar Piastri stated that a possible departure of the Dutchman would be ‘a great loss’ for the category.
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The Australian highlighted that the departure of a driver of this level would have a direct impact on F1’s image, especially as he is a recent benchmark on the grid. For him, the category needs to retain its main talents, especially at a time of important technical changes.
Verstappen has been one of the harshest critics of the 2026 regulations, going so far as to compare the current concept to ‘Formula E on steroids’. The four-time champion recently admitted that his dissatisfaction could influence decisions about his future in the category.
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Piastri acknowledged that the regulations are still evolving and require adjustments, but reinforced the importance of maintaining a competitive level among drivers: “It would be a shame to lose Max, especially at this point in his career. We want to race against the best and he has been the benchmark in recent years,” he stated.
Furthermore, the McLaren driver also advocated for changes to the regulations for safety reasons, after a weekend in Suzuka marked by incidents and challenges caused by the new energy demands. The updates planned for the Miami GP should focus on reducing energy management and improvements in starting conditions, as well as in wet track races.
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