Juan Pablo Montoya has offered a critical assessment of Max Verstappen’s driving, specifically regarding his recovery from a spin at the Miami Grand Prix earlier this season. Montoya dismissed the incident as ‘pure luck’ rather than a display of skill.
The former Formula 1 driver engaged in a debate on F1 TV, where he challenged the notion that Verstappen’s 360-degree spin recovery on the opening lap was a testament to his talent.
Verstappen, battling Charles Leclerc for the lead, dropped from second to ninth after the spin but ultimately recovered to finish fifth in the race.
Montoya’s comments sparked discussion with Jolyon Palmer, who defended Verstappen’s ability to recover from such situations. Palmer cited previous instances, including a spin at Stowe during the 2025 British Grand Prix and a pirouette at the 2019 German Grand Prix.
Despite Palmer’s arguments, Montoya remained unconvinced, suggesting that the natural physics of a spinning car contribute to its eventual halt. He maintained his scepticism, stating that releasing the throttle naturally stops the rotation.
Beyond individual driving incidents, Montoya has also been vocal about Verstappen’s public criticism of the 2026 Formula 1 regulations. Verstappen has described the current state of the sport as ‘Mario Kart’ and ‘a joke’.
Montoya suggested that drivers who do not respect the sport should face consequences, including fines or even being ‘shown the door’.
He believes that mocking Formula 1 and comparing it to a video game is unacceptable.
The Colombian also commented on the intense duel between Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton at the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix. Montoya observed that Hamilton, now with Ferrari, ‘doesn’t forget’ their contentious on-track history.
‘I think sometimes people forget what happened between Max and Lewis before, and Lewis doesn’t forget. When you’re a driver, and they run you over before, you don’t forget, and if you can give it to them, you will all the way. And that’s what we saw today. It was unbelievable. I was giggling watching that.’
The battle at the Red Bull Ring saw the two drivers trade positions in a tense exchange, which stewards investigated but ultimately took no further action.
Montoya further suggested that Verstappen’s current frustrations might stem from Red Bull Racing’s performance under the new 2026 regulations. He indicated that a winning car is essential to keep Verstappen content.
He noted that Verstappen did not complain about issues like porpoising when he was consistently winning races.
Montoya’s remarks highlight a broader discussion within the sport regarding driver conduct and the evolving nature of Formula 1 under its new technical framework.
