Juan Pablo Montoya has commented on Max Verstappen’s current situation in Formula 1, stating he is not envious of the Red Bull driver’s position. Verstappen faces significant scrutiny regarding his future and performance within the sport.
The four-time world champion has been a vocal critic of the 2026 Formula 1 regulations, particularly concerning the new hybrid power units and energy management requirements. He has repeatedly warned that the racing risks becoming less natural.
Verstappen has also compared the current 2026 cars to ‘Mario Kart’, a remark that has drawn criticism from various figures within the paddock.
Montoya has openly criticized drivers, including Verstappen, for their negative comments about the new regulations. He believes drivers should maintain respect for the sport that provides their livelihood.
The former F1 race winner even suggested that the FIA should consider penalizing Verstappen with super licence points for his outspoken remarks. This could potentially lead to a race ban.
Verstappen’s 2026 campaign has been marked by inconsistency. He currently sits seventh in the drivers’ championship, 103 points behind the leader after nine races.
The Red Bull driver has recorded three retirements, secured only two podium finishes, and has yet to claim a victory this season.
His contract with Red Bull extends until the end of 2028, but it includes performance-related exit clauses.
One such clause, tied to his championship standing by the summer break, has been triggered. Verstappen cannot reach the top two positions in the standings by the Hungarian Grand Prix.
This contractual development means Verstappen now has the option to trigger an exit from Red Bull for the 2027 season.
Speculation regarding Verstappen’s potential departure from Red Bull for 2027 has intensified. McLaren, Mercedes, and Ferrari have been mentioned as possible destinations.
However, McLaren CEO Zak Brown has confirmed that Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will not be leaving the team. Charles Leclerc has also signed a new long-term deal with Ferrari.
While Mercedes has previously shown interest in Verstappen, George Russell’s new contract and Kimi Antonelli’s strong performance make a move to the Brackley team unlikely for 2027.
Montoya believes that a winning car is the primary factor in keeping Verstappen content. He noted that Verstappen did not voice complaints when he was consistently winning races.
Despite driver criticism, Montoya has defended the 2026 regulations, particularly the new overtaking dynamics. He described them as ‘really good’ and an improvement over the previous DRS system.
Montoya also suggested that Verstappen’s extensive experience in sim racing could be an advantage in adapting to the new battery management aspects of the 2026 cars.
‘You’ve got to respect the sport,’ Montoya told the BBC’s Chequered Flag podcast. ‘For me, what the drivers are doing, I’m okay with you not liking the regulations, but the way you were speaking about what you’re living off and your own sport, there should be consequences for that.’
