Max Verstappen has once again criticized the current generation of Formula 1 cars, which has sparked comparisons with Michael Schumacher. Former driver and current commentator Martin Brundle analyzed the Dutchman’s stance and stated that the seven-time German champion would have handled the situation differently.
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The Dutchman has been one of the most critical drivers regarding the 2026 rules, frequently questioning the quality of racing under the current regulations. Furthermore, results have yet to appear, with Verstappen sitting in only ninth position in the drivers’ championship, with just twelve points.
During an appearance on ‘The F1 Show’, Brundle highlighted that Schumacher used to act more reservedly internally before exposing problems publicly. According to the former driver, the German dealt directly with the team and those in charge before taking the discussion to the press.
“What Schumacher would have done was close the door, bang on the table, metaphorically grab the right people by the collar, walk out and with a smile, say everything is fine. Then, if they didn’t solve it, which we hope to see in Miami, then you would start talking to the press. But that’s not how he, Max, does things,” Brundle stated.
Verstappen has been harsh in his assessments throughout the season, even stating that current Formula 1 does not represent real racing. The Red Bull Racing driver also compared wheel-to-wheel battles to the Mario Kart video game, reinforcing his dissatisfaction with the category’s current format.
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Brundle also commented on the frequent threats to leave Formula 1 made by the Dutch driver. For the British commentator, this discourse has lost its impact over time: “I think it’s getting a bit tiring what he’s saying. Either leave, or stop talking about it, because it is what it is,” the former driver concluded.
Despite the criticism, Brundle does not believe that Verstappen will actually leave the category. According to him, the situation could change quickly if the Dutchman has a competitive car again to fight for victories and titles.
Even with the difficult moment, Brundle believes that the four-time champion’s stay depends directly on the competitiveness of the equipment. If he returns to fighting for top results, the tone of the criticism is likely to decrease throughout the season.
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