Montoya calls for fines or exits for drivers criticizing F1's 2026 rules

Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has suggested that stars like Max Verstappen and Lando Norris should face fines or even be shown "the door" for their sharp criticism of the sport's upcoming 2026 technical regulations, framing their comments as disrespectful mockery rather than legitimate feedback.

Why it matters:

The debate highlights a classic tension in Formula 1: the value of drivers' unfiltered feedback versus the commercial and reputational interests of the sport. Driver criticism has historically been a catalyst for technical change, but Montoya's hardline stance suggests a growing concern that public disparagement from the sport's biggest stars could damage its product as it heads into a major regulatory shift.

The details:

• Montoya's comments, made to AS Colombia, propose adopting a North American sports-style disciplinary approach. He stated, "for people who don’t respect the sport, there’s the door. They can leave or get a fine, so they truly learn to respect what they’re doing."
• The trigger was public criticism from top drivers, most notably Max Verstappen comparing the current direction to "Mario Kart" and calling it "a joke," and Lando Norris saying driving the new-spec cars is "probably not something any of us grew up wanting to do."
• Montoya drew a line between having an opinion and mockery: "It’s fine for people to have an opinion... but mocking Formula 1 and comparing it to Mario Kart, that shouldn’t be accepted."
• Verstappen and Norris are not alone; other drivers like Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz have also expressed significant concerns about the 2026 rules, particularly around the proposed car dynamics and energy recovery systems.

What's next:

It is highly unlikely Formula 1 will adopt Montoya's suggested punitive measures, as driver authenticity is a key part of the modern sport's appeal. However, the public clash underscores the significant unease within the paddock regarding the 2026 rules package.

• The FIA and F1 organizers will likely continue behind-the-scenes discussions with teams and drivers to address technical concerns before the rules are finalized.
• The controversy ensures that the development and rollout of the 2026 cars will be under intense scrutiny, with driver feedback remaining a central, if sometimes contentious, part of the narrative.