Eddie Irvine, former Ferrari driver, believes Formula 1 could manage just fine without Max Verstappen. Despite Verstappen's frustrations with the 2026 regulations, Irvine points out the substantial financial incentives for the Red Bull driver to stay.
Max Verstappen's contemplation of leaving Formula 1 at the end of the 2026 season has stirred discussions, but former Ferrari driver Eddie Irvine doesn't see it as a disaster for the sport. Irvine, a four-time grand prix winner, bluntly stated that "F1 doesn’t need Max." While acknowledging Verstappen’s hefty paycheck as a compelling reason to stay, Irvine empathizes with the Dutchman's dissatisfaction over the 2026 regulations.
Verstappen has been vocal about his displeasure with the new rules, which emphasize battery management in ways he finds detrimental to racing. He’s described the experience as "anti-racing" and likened it to "Mario Kart." His frustration isn't with Red Bull's lackluster start to the season; it's the nature of the sport itself that’s bothering him. Scoring just 12 points over three races has certainly added to his woes.
Irvine, in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, remarked, "There are plenty of talented drivers out there," suggesting that F1 could continue to thrive even if Verstappen decided to hang up his helmet. He admitted the new regulations have room for improvement, criticizing the reliance on battery charge as a racing determinant. Despite owning four electric cars himself, Irvine finds the attempt to make Formula 1 eco-friendly somewhat misplaced, especially given the inherent dangers of the sport.
Verstappen isn't alone in his critique. Carlos Sainz has expressed safety concerns, and Lando Norris, the reigning world champion, has also been vocal about the issues. Yet, not everyone is against the new era; seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton finds the increased overtaking opportunities rather enjoyable.
The safety of the new regulations came under scrutiny at Suzuka, where Oliver Bearman fortunately escaped serious injury after a crash. Irvine compared it to a past incident in Japanese Formula 3000, emphasizing the need for continued safety improvements.
Adding to Verstappen’s challenges, his long-time race engineer GianPiero Lambiase is set to leave Red Bull for McLaren. Lambiase has been with Verstappen since 2016, serving as a crucial ally during his time with the team.
Whether Verstappen will indeed part ways with F1 in 2026 remains to be seen. For now, the sport continues to navigate its latest chapter, with or without its star driver.