Formula 1 is currently experiencing a debate about its new regulations, and the category’s CEO, Stefano Domenicali, revealed that he has spoken directly with Max Verstappen on the subject. According to the executive, the Red Bull Racing driver has come to better understand the overall picture after several private discussions.
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The Dutchman has been one of the most critical voices against the new rules, describing the changes as ‘anti-racing’ and even comparing the category to a ‘Formula E on steroids’. Additionally, Verstappen also left doubts about his long-term future in the category.
Despite the criticism, Domenicali stated that he maintains an open dialogue with the drivers and highlighted the importance of listening to their opinions. The executive also explained that he asked the competitors to show respect for Formula 1 and the path built collectively: “My conversations with the drivers are definitely very open, and they know that I care about their opinions. I want them to be involved,” Domenicali said in an interview with Autosport. The executive pointed out that, naturally, drivers who are winning tend to be more satisfied, while others may feel frustrated.
Domenicali also reinforced that he asked the drivers not to forget what Formula 1 represents: “What I said was: ‘Listen, don’t forget that what we are doing is because we did the right things together. So respect a sport that has given all of us an incredible opportunity to grow, make money, and develop a personality in the world that other sports might not be able to give’,” he stated.
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Regarding Verstappen specifically, the Formula 1 CEO revealed that the two have talked several times since the beginning of the discussions. According to him, the four-time world champion has been actively participating in meetings and presenting suggestions for the future of the category: “I think with Max we have talked many times since the beginning, so we understand that I understand his comments and he understands the overall picture. He has been in meetings where he was very interested in giving suggestions,” he added.
The executive also highlighted the weight of the Dutch driver’s statements: “He is the best driver, he is a four-time world champion, and his voice needs to be heard. But he also knows that his voice carries weight and needs to respect that, because some people might misinterpret it,” Domenicali concluded.
The conversations are expected to continue in the coming weeks, with more meetings between Formula 1, FIA, and teams. The goal is to discuss possible adjustments before the rest of the season, while dialogue with the drivers remains a central part of the process.
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