Montoya Calls for Verstappen Suspension; Hamilton Vows Ferrari Change

Juan Pablo Montoya has called for Max Verstappen to face penalty points for his criticism of the 2026 regulations, while Lewis Hamilton vows an immediate change in his race weekend approach at Ferrari. Meanwhile, Formula 1 is exploring options to add a race to the 2026 calendar following the cancellation of events in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's vocal opposition to the upcoming technical rules has sparked a debate about driver expression versus the sport's governance, with a former star now calling for severe consequences. Hamilton's introspection signals internal pressure at Ferrari to improve performance, and the calendar reshuffle highlights the ongoing logistical and political challenges F1 faces in maintaining its global schedule.

The details:

• Verstappen's Potential Penalty: Two-time Indy 500 winner Juan Pablo Montoya suggested Verstappen should receive penalty points on his FIA Super Licence for his continued public criticism, stating, "Park him... give him penalty points." Accumulating 12 points within 12 months results in an automatic one-race ban.
• Hamilton's Personal Pledge: After a frustrating Miami Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton stated he will change his approach to race weekends "with immediate effect," taking more responsibility for his performance. He emphasized the need for better communication and a more aggressive setup direction with his Ferrari team.
• Calendar Adjustments: F1 and the FIA are actively looking to add at least one Grand Prix to the 2026 season after the late cancellations in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Both venues remain candidates to be reinstated later in the year, pending new agreements.
• Team News Roundup:
  • Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff took blame for rookie Kimi Antonelli's poor starts in Miami, citing a team-related clutch procedure issue.
  • Honda highlighted a new focus on fine-tuning energy management after both Aston Martin cars finished a race for the first time this season.
  • Charles Leclerc defended Ferrari's strategy calls in Miami, stating it's "easy to blame" the team and that he would first analyze his own driving.

What's next:

The spotlight remains on Verstappen and whether the FIA will address his comments through formal means, setting a precedent for driver conduct. Hamilton's new approach will be tested at the next race weekend as Ferrari seeks more consistent results. The final 2026 calendar is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, with a replacement race likely announced soon.