Jos Verstappen has recently discussed the current state of Formula 1 and his son Max Verstappen’s engagement with the sport, particularly in light of the 2026 technical regulations. These comments follow a period of significant change within the championship.
Max Verstappen has openly criticised the new 2026 F1 cars, describing them as ‘terrible’ and ‘a joke’. He has also likened the driving experience to ‘Mario Kart’ due to the revised technical specifications.
The four-time world champion further characterised the new machinery as ‘Formula E on steroids’ and ‘anti-racing’, indicating a fundamental dissatisfaction with the current direction of the sport.
Jos Verstappen supports his son’s assessment, stating that the 2026 rules do not represent what Formula 1 should stand for. He has admitted to occasionally switching off the television while watching races due to a diminished interest.
The core of the issue stems from the 2026 regulations, which have placed a heavy emphasis on energy harvesting and deployment. Lap times are now significantly influenced by how drivers manage battery power.
This shift has led to frustrations among drivers regarding awkward starting procedures and compromised opportunities for wheel-to-wheel racing. Jos Verstappen believes Max is losing motivation under these conditions.
Earlier this season, Max Verstappen experienced a challenging start, securing only eight points from the first two race weekends. He was 43 points behind early championship leader George Russell by March.
However, Max achieved his first podium of the 2026 season at the Canadian Grand Prix in May, finishing third. He also secured a second-place finish at the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid last weekend.
The FIA responded to driver feedback by confirming rule adjustments in April, primarily focusing on energy management and safety. These changes were implemented from the Miami Grand Prix in May.
Discussions are ongoing regarding further refinements to the 50:50 split between internal combustion and electrical power for the 2027 season. Max Verstappen has warned that his unhappiness could lead him to consider his future in F1.
Both Jos and Max Verstappen advocate for greater driver involvement in regulation development. Max has also suggested drivers should have more influence on track designs, citing issues with overtaking at new circuits like Madrid.
Max about the Madrid GP: ‘They should let the drivers design the tracks, because they don’t really get it. You can’t overtake, and in all corners while braking you’re also turning in. They didn’t think it through.’
Jos Verstappen has indicated that Max’s future in Formula 1 is being evaluated, particularly concerning the long-term impact of the current regulatory framework.
