Max Verstappen has stated that little has changed in Formula One and wants more than just a 'tickle' of rule adjustments. The four-time world champion is pleased that drivers' voices are being considered but remains unconvinced about the direction of the sport.
Verstappen's Critique of New Regulations
Verstappen has been the most vocal critic of F1's new regulations, likening them to 'Mario Kart' due to the emphasis on battery management. Small modifications have been introduced ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, including reduced energy harvesting and a lower cap on the boost button. However, Verstappen dismissed these as a mere 'tickle', insisting that more significant changes are necessary.
Potential Departure from the Sport
The Dutch driver, who is under contract with Red Bull until 2028, hinted in Japan that he might walk away from F1. Asked whether his stance had changed, Verstappen replied: 'Nothing new to be honest. I still have time and I'm taking my time.'
Positive Steps in Driver Involvement
Despite his reservations, Verstappen acknowledged that F1 bosses and the FIA are now listening to drivers. Following meetings with both parties, he said: 'We had some nice meetings with Formula One and the FIA. I think that's probably a starting point, hopefully, for the future.'
He added: 'Even, you know, in a few years' time when maybe I'm not here anymore, I really hope that for the future drivers as well, there's more input to come from the drivers to the organisers in general. Because I do think that most of the drivers have a good understanding and a good feel of what is needed to make Formula One a good product, a fun product.'
Calls for Larger Rule Changes
Verstappen stressed that the current tweaks are insufficient: 'It's a tickle, but it needs a bit more than a tickle for next year, that's for sure. F1 is a very complex and political sport. But I think everyone has tried their best to at least do something.' He expressed regret that drivers were not consulted earlier, saying: 'I think if we would have had that five, maybe even before, like five, six years ago, we probably wouldn't have been in the state that we are in now.'
Hamilton's Support for Greater Driver Input
Lewis Hamilton also urged F1 to give drivers a greater say in shaping the sport. 'All the drivers work together, we do meet but we don't have a seat at the table. We engage with the FIA and Formula One,' Hamilton said. 'Formula One is often a bit more responsive but we are not stakeholders, we don't have a seat at the table which I think needs to change. We are here to work with them, we don't want to be slagging our sport. We want the sport to succeed so we need to be working together. It is like a broken record, it is small baby steps each time. But I have no doubt that we will get there.'
