F1 chief Stefano Domenicali: Max Verstappen will not leave due to new regulations.

Formula 1 chief Stefano Domenicali expressed confidence that Max Verstappen will not leave the sport due to its contentious and already criticized new regulations, which he has encouraged fans to “remain calm” about.

The newly introduced F1 cars, which incorporate engines that are nearly evenly divided between internal combustion and electric power, have faced criticism even before any competitive laps have been completed.

With energy management and battery power regeneration becoming increasingly crucial, prominent figures in the sport have already voiced their discontent with the new formula.

Verstappen compared the new vehicles to an enhanced version of the all-electric Formula E series, labeling them “anti-racing,” while two-time world champion Fernando Alonso remarked that the cars have become so reliant on energy management at certain moments that even Aston Martin’s chef could drive them without difficulty. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton stated that understanding the new system requires a university degree.

Despite the expectation that the slimmer and more agile cars would enhance wheel-to-wheel racing, several drivers have expressed worries about overtaking in 2026. Additionally, the prolonged time required for the new turbo power units to reach optimal speed has prompted tests of an extended start procedure to address concerns about multiple cars potentially being immobilized on the grid when the lights turn green at the start of a grand prix.

This all comes ahead of the season’s inaugural race, the Australian Grand Prix, scheduled for March 8.

Domenicali has responded to driver concerns this week and asserted during a call with select media on Thursday that he is confident in Verstappen’s long-term commitment.

“I met with Max yesterday because, as you know, Max is remarkable and he has a unique way of expressing himself that can sometimes be interpreted differently,” Domenicali stated.

“I assure you that Max is deeply invested in and cares about Formula 1 more than anyone else. He articulates his points in a specific manner. However, we had a very productive meeting, and he will also have a constructive discussion with the federation and the teams to emphasize his perspective on what he believes should be done to keep the driving style at the forefront, without altering the overall approach.”

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When asked later about his certainty regarding Verstappen’s continued participation, he replied: “Because I have a very good relationship with Max. I know him extremely well. I spend considerable time with him. That’s the reason. Full stop. And he is passionate about Formula 1. There is no doubt about that.”

F1 and the governing body, the FIA, are engaged in ongoing discussions with manufacturers regarding potential modifications to the cars in the early part of the season to alleviate concerns about the quality of racing.

While this process continues, Domenicali noted that the engineering capabilities in Formula 1 have historically led to swift advancements.

“I do not sense this anxiety; we need to remain calm because, as always, when new regulations are introduced, there is often a perception that everything is amiss,” F1’s CEO remarked. “I recall similar sentiments in 2014, 2020, and 2021.”

“As always, F1 as a system has consistently demonstrated that technical solutions have enabled teams to achieve speed and drivers to excel, so I am entirely optimistic about that.”

“I can assure you that everyone has been very constructive, and by the way, the feedback from the first day is already different from the comments made on the third or fourth day of driving, and this will continue to evolve.

“I am quite confident that when we convene in the middle of the year or at the end of the year, you will observe a different landscape of comments, a different array of issues that we need to discuss because that is typical in Formula 1.”

Source: espn.com