FIA steward Vitantonio Liuzzi has characterised Max Verstappen as a ‘war machine’ due to his extensive understanding of Formula 1 regulations. Liuzzi stated that Verstappen’s detailed knowledge of the rulebook surpasses that of other drivers, creating significant challenges for race stewards.
This assessment follows a season where Verstappen has been a vocal critic of the 2026 technical regulations. He has expressed frustration with the 50/50 power split between the internal combustion engine and electrical power.
Verstappen believes these new rules hinder pure racing and disadvantage highly skilled drivers. He has openly stated that individuals who appreciate the current 2026 races ‘don’t know what racing is about’.
The four-time world champion has also described the 2026 cars as akin to ‘Formula E on steroids’. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has acknowledged Verstappen’s concerns, affirming that his voice ‘has to be listened to’ within the sport.
Recent incidents have highlighted Verstappen’s assertive approach. During the Hungarian Grand Prix in July, he was investigated for erratic driving after an encounter with Carlos Sainz.
The FIA ultimately took no further action, partly because Sainz confirmed he was not affected by Verstappen’s manoeuvre. Additionally, untelevised radio footage from the same event captured Verstappen calling Racing Bulls drivers ‘morons’ for impeding him.
Red Bull Racing’s 2026 season has been described as ‘bumpy’. The team currently sits sixth in the constructors’ standings after the initial rounds. As of late April, Red Bull had accumulated 16 points, significantly behind Mercedes’ 135 points.
Laurent Mekies, Red Bull Team Principal, admitted dissatisfaction with the team’s performance at the Hungarian Grand Prix, despite securing a second and sixth-place finish. Mekies also indicated that Red Bull would reduce its development rate after the summer break to balance efforts between the current car and the 2027 regulations.
Concerns also persist regarding Red Bull Powertrains. Mekies has acknowledged a ‘mountain to climb’ in developing their first in-house power unit for 2026. He anticipates ‘struggles, headaches and sleepless nights’ as the team navigates this new venture.
Isack Hadjar joined Verstappen as his teammate for the 2026 season, replacing Yuki Tsunoda. Hadjar has demonstrated solid performance, averaging just over two tenths slower than Verstappen in qualifying, a closer margin than many previous teammates.
In related commentary, MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi recently discussed a hypothetical title battle with Verstappen. Rossi conceded that such a rivalry would likely ‘come to blows’ given their competitive natures.
Rossi also lightheartedly suggested he ‘opened the door’ for Verstappen’s increasing involvement in GT3 racing. Verstappen has been active in GT3 events, where he has also voiced criticisms regarding the current state of Formula 1 regulations.
Former team principal Otmar Szafnauer has also contributed to ongoing discussions, urging the FIA to consider red-flagging races for spectator benefit. Szafnauer has also criticised Lewis Hamilton’s paddock routine in contrast to Verstappen’s early circuit arrivals.
