Verstappen is NOT leaving F1: Domenicali TRUSTS in the driver’s future.

The Formula 1 boss, Stefano Domenicali, expressed his confidence that Max Verstappen will not leave the sport despite the controversial new rules that have generated debate. The new F1 cars, which will feature engines with a division close to 50/50 between internal combustion and electric energy, have been the subject of criticism even before completing a competitive lap. With energy management and battery regeneration as crucial aspects, leading figures in sports have expressed their concern.

Verstappen compared the new cars to Formula E “on steroids” and called them “anti-racing”.

Max Verstappen

Fernando Alonso commented that the cars depend so much on energy management that Aston Martin’s chef could drive them without problems.

Lewis Hamilton mentioned that a university degree is needed to understand it all.

Lewis Hamilton

Although thinner and more agile cars were expected to improve wheel-to-wheel racing, several drivers have expressed concerns about overtaking in 2026. In addition, the process for the new turbo power units to reach speed has led to tests of a longer starting procedure to prevent several cars from stalling on the grid at the start of the grand prix. Domenicali addressed the drivers’ concerns and insisted that he has no doubts about Verstappen’s long-term commitment. Domenicali explained that he had a constructive meeting with Verstappen, highlighting that the driver has a particular way of expressing his opinions, but that both share the desire to keep the driving style at the center of the experience. When asked about his confidence in Verstappen’s continued presence, Domenicali responded that his good relationship with the driver and his love for Formula 1 are the basis of his confidence. The F1 and FIA are in dialogue with manufacturers about possible changes to the cars during the first part of the season to address concerns about the quality of the races. Domenicali stated that the engineering capacity in Formula 1 has always led to rapid advances. “I don’t feel this anxiety, we need to remain calm because, as always, when there is something new in the regulations, there is always the feeling that something is wrong,” Domenicali commented. Furthermore, he added that “F1 as a system has always shown that technical solutions have always helped teams to be fast and drivers to be the best, so I am totally positive about it”. Domenicali concluded by saying that he hopes the comments and points of debate will evolve as the season progresses, confident that a different picture will be seen mid-season or at the end of the year.