Montoya Claps Back at Verstappen Over 2026 Regulations Spat

The war of words between Max Verstappen and Juan Pablo Montoya over Formula 1's 2026 regulations shows no signs of cooling down. Montoya swiftly brushed off Verstappen's recent personal attacks, asking "anything new?" when informed he had upset the Dutch driver during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend.

Why it matters:

• Tensions are escalating surrounding the upcoming 2026 regulatory overhaul, with top drivers openly questioning the sport's direction and even hinting at potential exits.
• The debate highlights a growing divide between current drivers who fear the new specs will hinder racing and former figures who believe public criticism undermines the series.

The details:

• The spat ignited when Montoya suggested on a podcast that F1 should "park" Verstappen and issue Super Licence penalty points for his relentless criticism of the 2026 rules.
• Verstappen retaliated strongly, calling Montoya's comments "rubbish" and questioning why Formula 1 Management pays someone who "spouts nonsense" just to stay relevant in the paddock.
• When Sky F1's Martin Brundle informed Montoya on the Montreal grid that he had upset the Verstappens, the seven-time race winner dismissively replied: "Anything new there?"
• Verstappen has been highly vocal against the 2026 regulations, famously labeling them "anti-racing" and "Mario Kart," while hinting he could leave the sport after 2026.
• The reigning champion is reportedly more positive about a proposed 2027 power unit tweak that would shift the electrical versus internal combustion power ratio to 60% in favor of internal combustion, though this change remains unconfirmed.
• On track, Verstappen secured his first podium of the new era in Canada, finishing P3 behind race winner Kimi Antonelli and Lewis Hamilton.

What's next:

• As the 2026 regulations now take full effect, the spotlight shifts to whether the FIA and F1 will implement the proposed 2027 power unit adjustments to appease drivers. Meanwhile, the paddock will be watching closely to see if Verstappen's frustrations continue to impact his long-term commitment to the sport.