Red Bull assesses Max Verstappen’s commitment amid F1 rules hate, quit threats

Red Bull says Max Verstappen is “able to put his personal preferences” aside when working with the team despite his ongoing criticism of Formula 1’s new rules.

The major regulations shake-up for the 2026 season got off to a tough start last weekend at the Australian Grand Prix, as they came in for widespread criticism from drivers and fans.

Four-time world champion Max Verstappen has been the most vocal about the new rules for some time, noting last year that he would quit F1 if he stopped enjoying it.

He was pressed on this matter again on Sunday after finishing fifth in Melbourne, replying: “I love racing, but you can only take so much, right.

“I think they are willing to listen, the FIA and F1.

“I just hope there is some action because it’s not that I’m the only one saying it.

“I think a lot of people are speaking the same. If it’s drivers, fans, we just want the best for the sport.

“We are not critical just to be critical. We are critical for a reason. We want it to be proper Formula 1 on steroids. Today, again, that was not the case.”

No concerns from Red Bull over Verstappen’s commitment

This raised questions about Verstappen’s commitment to the season ahead and helping develop Red Bull into a title contender.

But team boss Laurent Mekies was adamant that Verstappen is able to put his personal feelings aside to focus on the job at hand.

“I think Max cares about sport, and he’s giving a lot of feedback on what can be improved,” he said on Sunday in Australia.

“And we are listening. I think as a sport we are talking with the team and with the FIA and F1 to find what is the way forward.

“Here is one of the most difficult tracks. It will be interesting to see after China how much of a difference it makes to go on a track that is a bit less energy-hungry.

“Then, if there are improvements to make, then as a sport we will make them.”

He added: “No, when he’s with us, as far as the relationship with the team is concerned, there is absolutely no difference to last year in terms of how hard he is pushing on every single detail and how precise he is in his feedback.

“He’s able to put his personal preferences to the side when he debriefs with us and when we are chasing the performance together.”