Max Verstappen remains unconvinced by Formula 1’s regulatory adjustments, maintaining his stance that the current rules continue to “punish” drivers despite modifications implemented by the FIA ahead of the Miami Grand Prix. The four-time world champion expressed frustration that the changes do not address fundamental issues with the sport’s direction, particularly regarding the complexity of the new power unit regulations.
The governing body collaborated with teams and championship organizers to refine several problematic areas that emerged during the early stages of the current F1 era. These April revisions aimed to restore traditional qualifying intensity by reducing energy recovery requirements and minimizing dependence on electric power unit components. Safety concerns over extreme closing speeds witnessed in the season’s opening three races also prompted rule modifications.
Despite enjoying a more competitive showing at Miami International Autodrome, where he qualified on the front row and finished fifth, Verstappen believes the alterations fall short of improving racing quality. “My car drives a bit better, but what I said before about the regulations is still the same,” the 71-time grand prix winner told media, including RacingNews365. “You still need to go a bit slower in places to go faster. So, it’s still not how I would like to see it.”
The Red Bull driver elaborated on his ongoing concerns with the current formula, emphasizing that speed paradoxes remain embedded in the regulations. “It’s still punishing; the faster you go to corners, the slower you go on the next straight. That’s not what it should be about,” Verstappen explained. While acknowledging that his RB22 performed more predictably in Miami, he noted the driving experience remains “a bit less stressful” rather than fundamentally improved.
Looking ahead to the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, Verstappen adopted a cautious approach regarding expectations. “It’s a completely different track, of course, to here. So let’s see how competitive we can be there,” he stated when asked about potential further updates to his car and anticipation for the next round.