Verstappen's GT Teammate Juncadella Fires Back at Steiner Over Regulation Critique

Max Verstappen's GT teammate Dani Juncadella has taken aim at Guenther Steiner after the former Haas F1 boss suggested Verstappen's criticism of current regulations stems from his recent lack of dominance. The Spanish driver fired back on social media, noting that Verstappen has warned about the rules since 2023 — long before his performance dip.

Why it matters:

The exchange highlights growing friction between Verstappen's inner circle and prominent figures from Formula 1's past. Steiner, now a MotoGP team executive, questioned the four-time champion's motives, but Verstappen and his allies argue his concerns are principled and consistent — not results-driven.

The details:

• Juncadella posted on X: “Guy has warned everyone about the new regs since 2023 but the head of the consortium that acquired the Tech3 MotoGP team knows better 👍🏼.”
• Jos Verstappen also responded, saying: “Hi, Guenther. I understand why you are not an F1 team boss anymore. The way you talk.”
• Steiner had argued that if Verstappen were still winning through the start of the regulation cycle, he'd be less vocal about his disdain.
• Verstappen, after the Canadian Grand Prix, reinforced his stance: “Even if you gave us a rental car, we’d give you a good show. It has nothing to do with the rules … It’s way too complex.”

The big picture:

Verstappen's persistent criticism of F1's technical complexity — from battery deployment rules to formation lap procedures — is unlikely to fade. With Steiner now outside the F1 paddock, the debate shifts to whether the sport can simplify its regulations without sacrificing its identity. For now, Verstappen has the backing of those closest to him, and his podium in Montreal shows he's still capable of elite results despite his frustrations.