Piastri says Verstappen leaving F1 'not a great look' for the sport

McLaren's Oscar Piastri says it would be "a big loss" and "not a great look" for Formula 1 if Max Verstappen were to leave the sport, as the reigning champion voices strong discontent with the new 2026 regulations. Teammate Lando Norris echoed the sentiment, calling a potential departure "a shame" but respecting Verstappen's right to pursue other racing interests after his championship success.

Why it matters:

Verstappen is the current benchmark and dominant force in F1. His vocal criticism of the upcoming technical rules and hints at reconsidering his future strike at the heart of the sport's credibility. If the most successful driver of his generation finds the championship's direction unappealing, it raises serious questions about the appeal of the new era for top talent and the global fanbase.

The details:

• Driver Concerns: Piastri and Norris both emphasized the importance of racing against the best, with Piastri noting Verstappen has "been the benchmark" for years. Norris added that while Verstappen makes their lives "incredibly tough," it's "cool" and "good fun" to compete against a four-time champion.
• Regulation Frustration: The core issue is Verstappen's open criticism of the 2026 power unit regulations, which emphasize energy management. He has described the resulting driving style as a disliked "yo-yo" effect and has found more enjoyment racing GT3 cars in series like the NLS.
• Earned Freedom: Norris defended Verstappen's stance, stating the Red Bull driver has "earned the right to go and do whatever he wants" after winning four titles. He praised Verstappen for always being himself and speaking his mind.
• Competitive Context: Piastri pointed out that the criticism comes while Red Bull is not the most competitive car, sitting sixth in the constructors' championship, but stressed the 2026 rules are "obviously being worked on" and are "more complex."

What's next:

While the comments highlight a significant tension between the sport's biggest star and its future direction, an immediate departure is considered unlikely.

• Norris himself predicts Verstappen will stay longer than some speculate, noting the Dutchman's stated goal of winning a fifth world championship.
• The focus now shifts to how F1's organizers and the FIA address top drivers' concerns about the 2026 rules' racing product. The sport must balance technical innovation with preserving the on-track spectacle that attracts its best competitors.