Domenicali: Verstappen consulted on 2027 rules and expected to stay in F1

Stefano Domenicali has revealed that Max Verstappen was directly consulted on Formula 1's planned 2027 regulation changes, and the F1 chief is confident the four-time world champion will still be on the grid when the revised rules arrive. The comments come amid a frustrating 2026 campaign for Verstappen, who sits sixth in the standings and remains winless while openly criticizing the current 50-50 power unit split.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's future has become the dominant storyline of a difficult Red Bull season, with speculation ranging from a move to a rival outfit to a full departure from the sport. Domenicali's disclosure that Verstappen is actively helping shape the next generation of technical rules suggests his relationship with the sport is far more constructive than recent rumors of an early exit might imply. Keeping F1's most prominent star engaged is critical as the sport navigates its most significant power unit overhaul in years.

The details:

• Domenicali confirmed that drivers who sampled the 2027 changes on simulators agreed the sport is "going in the right direction," and that he discussed the revisions directly with Verstappen.
• The proposed 2027 framework would abandon the current 50-50 split between electrical and combustion power in favor of a 58-42 balance, shifting further to 60-40 by 2028.
• Any rule change requires alignment between teams, manufacturers, the FIA, and FOM under the existing governance structure.
• Domenicali highlighted his "incredible relationship" with Verstappen and stated his belief that the Dutchman "will stay with us," despite persistent rumors of an early exit or a switch to another team.
• Verstappen has endured a winless 2026 and remains a vocal critic of the current regulations' aggressive energy-harvesting demands.

What's next:

Attention now turns to the Dutch Grand Prix in two weeks, where Verstappen's words will be scrutinized for clues about his future. While Domenicali stopped short of speaking for the driver, his optimism suggests F1 is planning for a future that includes its most successful active champion. Whether Verstappen stays with Red Bull or not, the pending 2027 changes may prove decisive in keeping him in the cockpit.