Max Verstappen remains one of the fiercest critics of the new Formula 1 regulations, but according to the Red Bull team, that poses no problem for his commitment to the team. The sweeping regulatory changes received a lot of criticism from drivers and fans during the season opener in Australia, and Verstappen also made his voice heard again after his sixth-place finish in Melbourne. Nevertheless, team principal Laurent Mekies does not fear that the Dutchman is becoming lax in his approach.
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The four-time world champion has long expressed his doubts about the new generation of cars and engines. After the first race in Melbourne, where he fought back from the rear to P6, he was again asked about the current direction of the sport. “I love racing, but you can only take so much of it, right?” Verstappen reacted cynically. “I think the FIA and Formula 1 are willing to listen. Hopefully, action will be taken, because I’m not the only one saying this. Whether it’s drivers or fans, we just want the best for the sport.”
The statements raised questions about his motivation for the season and his role in the further development of the car. Team principal Laurent Mekies emphasizes, however, that Verstappen can separate his personal opinion from his work with the team. “I think Max (Verstappen, ed.) is very committed to the sport and that he wants to give a lot of feedback on what can be improved,” the Frenchman told the press in Melbourne. “And we are certainly listening to him. I think as a sport we are in talks with the teams, the FIA and Formula 1 to see what the best way forward is.”
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Awaiting the Chinese GP
At the same time, Mekies pointed to the unique characteristics of the Albert Park Circuit in Australia. He wants to wait for the outcome of the upcoming sprint weekend in China before drawing conclusions about the new cars. “It will be interesting to see after China how much of a difference it makes to drive on a circuit that consumes a bit less energy,” he explained. “If improvements are still needed then, we will implement them as a sport.” The FIA wants to meet with the teams after Shanghai to discuss any changes, as confirmed by top official Nikolas Tombazis this week.
According to Mekies, however, nothing has changed internally at Red Bull in the way Verstappen works with the team. “No, the relationship with the team has absolutely not changed compared to last year,” he responded when asked. “He still focuses on the smallest details and his feedback remains incredibly precise. He is able to set aside his personal preferences when he discusses the race with us and when we try to improve performance together.”
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