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‘F1 is bigger than an individual’: Verstappen put in his place after attack on 2026 cars
Max Verstappen’s critical comments on F1’s 2026 cars have faced backlash from a former driver and pundit in the sport. Verstappen’s comparison of the new cars to ‘Formula E on steroids’ and his declaration of them being his ‘least favorite’ generation to drive have raised eyebrows.
Despite concerns about the new cars potentially prompting an early retirement, the four-time champion has reassured fans that things would have to go pretty badly for him to consider leaving the sport.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has expressed confidence in Verstappen’s commitment to the sport and mentioned a positive meeting between the two. However, there are voices cautioning the Dutch driver to exercise restraint when criticizing the new cars.
Former F1 driver and current Sky Sports Germany pundit Ralf Schumacher believes it is premature for Verstappen to pass such harsh judgement before the season’s start. Schumacher emphasized the importance of unity in F1 and suggested waiting for the initial races to form a more accurate opinion.
Verstappen is set to kick off his 2026 season at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 8 at 3pm local time, 4am GMT, and 11pm ET.
