Former Formula 1 race winner Juan Pablo Montoya has implored the powers that be to take action against Lando Norris and Max Verstappen for their criticism of the 2026 regulations.
The new technical regulations continue to prove divisive for drivers and fans alike, as debate rages over whether urgent changes are required.
Some drivers have been vocal over their criticism of the new power units, with two opting not to mince their words over their dissatisfaction.
Verstappen has proven to be the most vocal, comparing the sport to “Mario Kart”, adding that the sport was now “a joke”, and “Formula E on steroids”.
Norris has been equally blunt, stating driving the cars as “probably not something any of us grew up wanting to do”.
Neither have impressed former race winner Montoya, who had stern recommendations for the powers that be regarding their criticism.
“At some point, Formula 1 needs to do what the sports world in the United States does: for people who don’t respect the sport, there’s the door,” Montoya said to AS Colombia.
“They can leave or get a fine, so they truly learn to respect what they’re doing. That’s what I would do.”
Opinions valid, but need to be reigned in?
Montoya also confirmed his viewpoint that although opinion is healthy, a line must be drawn when it becomes detrimental to the sport.
“It’s fine for people to have an opinion,” he added. “I’m not saying they have to like it, but mocking Formula 1 and comparing it to Mario Kart, that shouldn’t be accepted by Formula 1.”
Montoya’s intervention summarises the two polarising opposing camps emerging with viewpoints on the regulations.
While some are happy with the amount of overtaking and unpredictability brought in by the new power units, drivers continue to voice their displeasure.
Questions will be raised over the future of the new rules should drivers continue to speak out.
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