Jos Verstappen Fires Back at Guenther Steiner Over Max's 2026 Rules Criticism

Jos Verstappen has fired back at Guenther Steiner's claim that Max Verstappen "would be really happy" with the F1 2026 rules if Red Bull were winning. The four-time world champion, who scored his first podium of the season in Canada (third behind Antonelli and Hamilton), has been openly critical of the regulations, likening them to "Formula E on steroids" during pre-season testing. The FIA has since agreed in principle to tweak the 50:50 split between internal combustion and electric power for the 2027 season.

Why it matters:

This public clash highlights the growing rift between top drivers and team figures over F1's direction. Verstappen Sr.'s blunt response — "I understand why you not a F1 team boss anymore. The way you talk" — reflects frustration with critics who dismiss Max's concerns as self-serving. With Max hinting he could leave F1 if the rules don't improve, the sport is under pressure to deliver a product that satisfies both entertainment and competition.

The details:

• Jos Verstappen's social media post gained nearly 300,000 views and over 5,000 likes. Daniel Juncadella, Max's teammate at the Nürburgring 24 Hours, also jabbed Steiner: "Guy has warned everyone since 2023 but the head of the consortium that acquired the Tech3 MotoGP team knows better." When a fan accused Juncadella of being "on the payroll," he replied: "Very rude of you to call GS a ghost."
• Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies confirmed support for the proposed changes, which include an increased fuel-flow rate and potentially larger fuel tanks or shorter races. Mekies said: "You will find nobody comfortable with changing so late for next year... but we are happy to step out of that comfort zone for the benefit of the sport."
• Max first raised concerns about the 2026 regulations in 2023, warning that the cars would produce "following issues" and lack the excitement of flat-out racing. The FIA's proposed tweak aims to address those issues, but manufacturers remain divided. Steiner, who left Haas at the end of 2023 and now owns the Tech3 MotoGP team, has been a vocal commentator on F1 matters.

What's next:

The rule adjustments for 2027 are still under negotiation, with stakeholders weighing the impact of late changes on car designs. Red Bull-Ford Powertrains backs the move, but unanimity is elusive. For Max Verstappen, the outcome will be crucial in determining whether he commits to F1's new era or pursues other opportunities. The coming months will test the sport's ability to balance innovation with the raw racing that fans demand.