The ongoing criticism of Formula 1′s technical regulations has attracted the ire of a former race winner and relative of an F1 legend.
Verstappen has been by far the most vocal of the drivers in voicing his displeasure over F1’s new technical regulations in 2026.
Going as far as to call the sport “Formula E on steroids” in pre-season testing, the four-time world champion doubled down on his comments in China.
Red Bull is struggling for pace in 2026, fuelling suggestions that Verstappen’s grumbles are more to do with the speed of his RB22 than concerns over battery deployment.
However, former F1 race winner Ralf Schumacher, brother of seven-time world champion Michael, rubbished comparisons between Michael and Verstappen.
The German explained the differences between himself and the Dutchman, highlighting where the two men’s attitudes diverged in the face of adversity.
“What is very important now, and this is also the big difference with my brother, is that he always stood behind his team and did not bring out criticism,” Schumacher said on the Backstage Boxengasse podcast.
“Internally, of course, you have to be clear. I heard that everyone was on a plane together and had a big consultation.”
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Schumacher also highlighted the gaps that Red Bull must fill, including strong personnel with media presence.
“What is important now is that Laurent Mekies shows that he is not only a good leader, but also fills gaps by bringing in new, strong personnel.
“Mekies speaks like a technician, I don’t know how big his network is outside of Italy, after his history at Ferrari.
“As for Red Bull, at the moment, unfortunately, Max Verstappen takes centre stage. He is almost forced to say something about everything because there is no one else.”
Schumacher’s comments on Verstappen are blunt, and question the Dutchman’s reaction to challenging situations.
Drawing comparisons to his brother, considered by many to be the greatest driver of all time, Schumacher will make some question Verstappen’s current attitude to F1.
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