Formula 1's top executive, Stefano Domenicali, has expressed strong confidence that star driver Max Verstappen will not leave the sport, despite recent concerns voiced by the Dutch champion regarding the new 2026 car regulations. Verstappen has shared that the upcoming cars, which heavily emphasize energy management due to a near 50/50 split between internal combustion and electric power, might impact his career longevity. Domenicali's reassurances come after discussions with Verstappen during pre-season testing in Bahrain.
Context of Driver Discontent and F1's Response
The 2026 Formula 1 season is set to introduce a significant shift in car design, featuring new power units with a greater reliance on electrical energy. This has drawn criticism from several prominent drivers, including Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, and Lando Norris. Drivers have expressed worries that the increased emphasis on energy management could detract from the core racing experience, with some likening the new cars to "Formula E on steroids" or stating that understanding the systems requires extensive study. Max Verstappen himself has indicated that his continued participation in Formula 1 is tied to his enjoyment of driving and has hinted that he has "a lot of other projects" he wishes to pursue.
Concerns over 2026 Regulations: The new cars require drivers to constantly manage energy regeneration, even during high-speed sections of a lap. This focus on energy management, rather than purely aggressive driving, has been a point of contention.
Driver Opinions: Lewis Hamilton suggested the new systems are complex and require a "university degree to understand." Lando Norris, while initially positive, also admitted to concerns about the new rules.
Domenicali's Stance: Formula 1 President Stefano Domenicali has acknowledged these concerns and has stated that discussions are planned with the FIA and teams to address driver feedback and ensure that driving talent remains central to the sport.
Verstappen's Viewpoint on New Regulations
Max Verstappen has been vocal about his reservations concerning the 2026 Formula 1 regulations. He has described the new cars as a departure from what he believes defines Formula 1, particularly the mandatory energy harvesting that he feels is not in line with the sport's essence.
"The current regulations are not helping the longevity of my career in Formula 1, let’s say like that." - Max Verstappen (as quoted in Article 4)
He has previously stated that his decision to continue in Formula 1 is contingent on his enjoyment of driving. While Verstappen has a known interest in other racing series, such as endurance sportscar racing, his immediate future in Formula 1 remains a subject of discussion.
Impact on Driving Experience: Verstappen believes the heavy focus on energy management compromises the raw driving thrill he values.
Career Longevity: He has suggested that the new regulations might influence how long he chooses to stay in Formula 1.
Broader Interests: Verstappen has expressed a desire to explore other racing disciplines.
Domenicali's Confidence in Verstappen's Commitment
Despite the expressed concerns, Stefano Domenicali remains steadfast in his belief that Max Verstappen will continue racing in Formula 1. He bases this confidence on his close relationship with the driver and his perception of Verstappen's deep care for the sport. Domenicali highlighted that he spends a significant amount of time with Verstappen and has had constructive meetings with him, the FIA, and teams to understand his perspective.
"I can guarantee to you that Max wants and does care about Formula 1 more than anyone else." - Stefano Domenicali (as quoted in Article 1)
Domenicali sees Verstappen's way of expressing his points as a characteristic of his direct personality. He believes that Verstappen's feedback, while critical, stems from a genuine desire to see Formula 1 succeed and evolve.
Personal Relationship: Domenicali emphasizes his strong relationship with Verstappen as a key reason for his confidence.
Shared Commitment: He asserts that Verstappen is deeply invested in the future of Formula 1.
Constructive Dialogue: Domenicali has engaged in discussions to incorporate driver viewpoints into the sport's development.
Driver Feedback on 2026 Car Development
The criticism of the new 2026 regulations is not limited to Max Verstappen. Other leading drivers have also voiced their opinions, contributing to a broader conversation about the direction of Formula 1.
| Driver | Criticism | Article Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Max Verstappen | New cars' emphasis on energy management is against the essence of F1; may affect career longevity. | 1, 3, 4, 5, 7 |
| Lewis Hamilton | The complexity of the new systems requires extensive study, likening it to needing a university degree. | 2 |
| Lando Norris | Expressed concern over the new regulations and the role of energy management over outright driving. | 7 |
Domenicali has called for a sense of calm regarding these criticisms, suggesting that while driver input is valued, rapid progress in engineering has historically addressed such concerns. He has also indicated that changes would be considered if necessary.
Conclusion and Implications
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has projected an optimistic outlook regarding Max Verstappen's future in the sport, stating he is confident the reigning champion will not depart despite concerns over the upcoming 2026 car regulations. Verstappen's reservations center on the increased demand for energy management, which he feels alters the fundamental driving experience of Formula 1. Domenicali, citing his close personal relationship with Verstappen and a shared commitment to the sport, believes these concerns are being addressed through constructive dialogue with drivers, the FIA, and teams. While other drivers also share criticisms regarding the new technical specifications, Domenicali's firm assurance suggests a belief that Verstappen's passion for Formula 1 will outweigh any potential dissatisfaction with the evolving rules. The situation underscores an ongoing effort within Formula 1 to balance innovation with driver satisfaction and competitive integrity.
Key Finding: Stefano Domenicali is highly confident Max Verstappen will remain in Formula 1.
Underlying Tension: Max Verstappen has expressed significant reservations about the 2026 car regulations, particularly concerning energy management.
F1's Approach: Domenicali is engaging in dialogue to address driver feedback while maintaining belief in the sport's evolution.
Future Outlook: The success of these discussions and the actual performance of the 2026 cars will be crucial in determining the long-term sentiment of drivers like Verstappen.
Sources
Sky Sports: https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/13509671/max-verstappen-f1-chief-stefano-domenicali-confident-red-bull-driver-will-not-quit-f1-despite-criticism-of-new-cars
ESPN: https://www.espn.com/f1/story//id/47977356/f1-boss-stefano-domenicalli-max-verstappen-wont-quit-new-rules
AP News: https://apnews.com/article/f1-max-verstappen-stefano-domenicali-5044a66709e7ba4e2bb00abe3fe8b564
Archyde: https://www.archyde.com/domenicali-confident-verstappen-will-stay-in-f1-despite-2026-concerns/
BBC Sport: https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/articles/cn870nk9eveo
The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/feb/20/domenicali-pleads-for-calm-over-fears-new-rules-will-wreck-formula-one
GP Blog: https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/f1-boss-talks-about-future-with-verstappen-i-want-to-keep-him