The new phase of Formula 1 with different technical regulations is already starting to generate strong reactions among the drivers. Max Verstappen admitted that he does not rule out the possibility of leaving the category if he remains dissatisfied with how the races are being affected by the current rules.
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The Red Bull driver once again criticized the category’s scenario and stated that he expects changes from the FIA and Formula 1 itself. For the four-time world champion, the entity needs to listen to the drivers and seek solutions that make racing more enjoyable for those on the track.
Verstappen explained that he remains passionate about competing, but made it clear that there is a limit to the level of frustration a driver can endure. “I love racing, but you can only take so much, right?” the Dutchman stated when commenting on the subject with the press.
According to him, the FIA’s main concern at this moment should be adjusting the category’s regulations. The driver highlighted that he frequently gives his opinion when consulted about the rules.
“I think what they should worry about is the rules. Just focus on that. They ask questions and I give my opinion on what I would like to see and what I believe is best for the sport,” he said.
The driver also stated that he makes these criticisms because he cares about the future of the category. For Verstappen, the intention is not simply to complain, but to help improve the spectacle of Formula 1.
“I care about the sport. I love racing and I want it to be better than this. Let’s see what we can do,” he stated.
The Red Bull driver showed hope that it is still possible to promote changes throughout the current season. For him, adjustments to the regulations could make the experience more enjoyable for both drivers and fans.
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“I hope that still this year we can find different solutions to make everything more fun for everyone,” he added.
Asked directly about the possibility of leaving the category if he remains dissatisfied, Verstappen indicated that the future will depend on the decisions made by the sport’s leaders.
“As I said, I love racing, but you can only take so much,” the four-time champion reiterated.
The Dutchman also highlighted that his criticisms are not isolated within the paddock. According to him, many drivers and also fans share the same concerns regarding the direction of the category.
“I’m not the only one saying this. I think a lot of people think the same way, whether they are drivers or fans,” he stated.
For Verstappen, the goal of the criticisms is to preserve the essence of Formula 1. “We want the best for the sport. We don’t criticize just for the sake of criticizing, there is a reason. We want it to be real Formula 1,” he concluded.
On the track, the Australian GP weekend was also complicated for the Red Bull driver. After suffering a crash in qualifying and starting from only 20th on the grid, Verstappen managed to recover during the race and finished the event in sixth place.
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