Several former Formula 1 Grand Prix drivers have claimed that the sport does not need Max Verstappen, in response to the four-time world champion’s threats to leave.
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Verstappen shook the paddock after the Japanese Grand Prix by declaring that he is considering leaving F1 at the end of the season, due to his dissatisfaction with the 2026 regulations.
The Red Bull driver, who finished seventh at Suzuka, is unhappy with the direction F1 is taking with these new rules, which place more emphasis on electric energy.
Shocking statements
Verstappen has been the most vocal critic of the new rules, calling them “Formula E on steroids” during pre-season testing, before continuing to make derogatory comments during the first three races of the season.
He made his strongest comments in Japan by threatening to leave F1, telling BBC Sport:
“That’s what I’m saying. I’m thinking about everything that’s happening in this paddock. Privately, I’m very happy. You’re also looking at 24 races. This time it’s 22. But normally 24. And then you just wonder if it’s worth it? Or if I’d rather be at home more with my family? See my friends more often if I don’t really enjoy my sport?”
A staggering salary
Eddie Irvine, who won four Grands Prix before finishing second in the 1999 championship with Ferrari, reacted to Verstappen’s latest statements in an interview with the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport.
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“F1 doesn’t need Max, there are plenty of talented drivers,” said the Irishman. “It’s hard for him to find himself in the middle of the pack. But given his salary, there are more than 50 million euros of good reasons to stay.”
Irvine is not the only F1 veteran to react to Verstappen’s protests. Former driver and Sky Sports consultant, Martin Brundle, advised Verstappen to leave F1 “or stop talking about it” after getting tired of hearing his repeated complaints.
Not indispensable
“Max is very outspoken, isn’t he? He always has been,” Brundle noted. “And he’s talked a lot for a long time about ‘I’m not here to last, I won’t be here at 40.’ I think what he’s saying is getting a bit boring now. Either he leaves, or he stops talking about it. That’s how it is, you have to make the most of it.”
“No one is indispensable in this business,” he recalls. “I’ve seen many incredible people go through this sport and no longer be there, or leave to do something else. The sport goes on. That applies to every one of us. The moment we stop, people will talk about who will do the job next. There are plenty of Antonellis, Bearmans or Lindblads who would do this job incredibly well for 1% of the money. The sport will simply continue if Max decides to leave.”