Verstappen still unhappy despite tweaks in new F1 regulations, doubles down on need of 'big, big changes'

Four-time world champion Max Verstappen has once again voiced his dissatisfaction with Formula 1’s controversial 2026 regulations, insisting that “really big, big changes” are needed to make the sport more interesting.

F1 brought new regulations ahead of this season which has divided the racing world with Verstappen being one of the most bitter critics of the rules. Amid criticism, FIA has implemented some changes to these regulations but the four-time world champion is not quite satisfied with them.

Verstappen wants major changes

Speaking ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, Verstappen dismissed recent tweaks to the rules as nothing more than “a tickle.”

"I guess it's a tickle. You know, it's not what we need yet to really make it flat out. But it's complicated to get everyone to agree. I just hope for next year we can make really big, big changes," Verstappen said.

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Verstappen said that FIA had consulted the drivers about the rule changes and the made the adjustments. He hopes that the global F1 racing body will continue to engage with the drivers.

"I mean, the positive thing about it is that we had some nice meetings with Formula 1 and the FIA," Verstappen said. "And I think that's probably a starting point hopefully for the future. Even, you know, in a few years' time, maybe when I'm not here anymore, I really hope that, for the future drivers as well, there's more input to come from the drivers to the organisers in general."

The 2026 regulations introduced lighter, more compact cars with narrower tyres and a heavily revised power unit that places far greater emphasis on electrical energy management. However, the changes have received mix response from fans and drivers.

Verstappen, whose four-year-long reign on the F1 title was broken last year, has had a poor start to the season as Red Bull try to adapt to the new regulations. He finished sixth in Australia and eighth in Japan while not finishing in China.