F1 chief guarantees Max Verstappen will stay after constructive meeting

F1 chief Stefano Domenicali left a press briefing convinced that four‑time champion Max Verstappen will stay in the sport, despite the Dutch driver’s blistering public criticism of the 2025 regulation overhaul. Verstappen described the new cars as “Formula E on steroids” and “anti‑racing,” prompting a “very constructive” meeting that Domenicali says has secured the champion’s commitment.

Why it matters:

• Verstappen is F1’s marquee star; his exit would hit TV ratings, sponsor deals and the sport’s credibility.
• The new technical package is a flashpoint; driver buy‑in is crucial for a smooth transition to the 2025‑2026 era.

The details:

• Domenicali met Verstappen on Wednesday after talks with Charles Leclerc; Verstappen slammed the cars as “Formula E on steroids” and “anti‑racing.”
• Domenicali called the talk “very constructive,” promised a follow‑up with the FIA and noted that driver views typically soften after a few race weekends.

What’s next:

• Verstappen will sit down with the FIA in the coming weeks to push for changes that keep the “driving style” core to the car’s identity.
• Domenicali expects sentiment to improve by mid‑season as teams fine‑tune the new spec, keeping Verstappen firmly in F1’s long‑term plan.

Domenicali’s confidence suggests Verstappen’s future with F1 is safe, even as the sport navigates its most significant technical overhaul in years.