Stefano Domenicali has revealed his conversations with Max Verstappen as Formula 1 braces for further alterations to the power unit regulations in 2027.
The sport’s latest era, featuring a pure 50-50 hybrid power unit, has started on a polarising note. While the racing action, on track, has been augmented, many have labelled the spectacle as “artificial”.
One of the strongest opponents to the increase in electrical output from the 2026 engines has been four-time F1 World Champion, Verstappen.
The Dutchman’s disdain for proactive energy harvesting has also coincided with Red Bull’s fall off in terms of competitiveness, with the 28-year-old currently sitting sixth in the standings.
Without a Grand Prix in 2026, so far, Verstappen is strongly linked with a move away from the Milton-Keynes-based team, or the paddock itself.
Considering driver feedback, F1 has opted to reconsider the engine formula with a 58-42 split in favour of the ICE contemplated for next season, before a 60-40 split can be achieved by 2028.
F1 CEO Domenicali has revealed that the early simulator sessions have sparked positive response from drivers, and that Verstappen has been a key consultant through this process.
“For the drivers that have already driven the change of next year on the simulator, [they say] that it’s going in the right direction,” he told media including Motorsport Week.
“And also, with Max, we discussed that.
“We don’t have to forget that there is a governance in place that, to change regulations, teams and manufacturer need to be in agreement with the position of the FIA and us (FOM).”
Domenical hopes to see Max Verstappen commit his long-term future to F1
11 rounds into 2026, Verstappen finds himself between a rock and a hard place.
Not only is he struggling to find pace to fight at the sharp end of the field, but the 28-year-old is also not enjoying himself under the current technical rule-set.
Yet, Domenicali is confident that the Red Bull driver still “loves” the sport.
“I think Max would be very happy,” the Italian said about Verstappen’s reaction to the proposed amendments.
“I think that Max is in a situation where he loves Formula 1, he loves the future. We are discussing together his future, and the regulations for the future.
“I have an incredible relationship with him.”
With Verstappen yet to commit himself to Red Bull, for 2027, or the sport for that matter, Domenicali is optimistic about what the future holds for the 28-year-old and F1 itself.
“Formula 1 is big enough for him to be part of us, but of course, he will decide the future the way he prefers to do, and the sport will look ahead,” he concluded.
“My opinion is that Max will stay with us. And I really hope so.”
A decision about the Dutchman’s future is expected to come sooner rather than later as F1 gets ready for the Dutch GP in two weeks.
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