2026-04-16 11:53:59

Stefano Domenicali says F1 “has to listen” to Max Verstappen’s criticism of the new regulations.

The four-time world champion has been a vocal critic of the new rules introduced to the sport this season – which has placed increased emphasis on energy management from drivers – and the F1 CEO says his concerns must be taken into account.

Domenicali told Autosport: “He’s the best driver, he’s a world champion, multiple world champion, and his voice has to be listened to.”

The F1 chief also urged Verstappen – who has suggested he could retire from F1 at the end of the campaign – to realise that his voice “has a weight” and doesn’t want the Red Bull driver’s comments to be detrimental to the sport.

Domenicali said: “With Max, we have spoken many, many times. So we understand that I understand his comments and he understands the bigger picture.

“Even today he has been in a meeting where he was very keen to give suggestions. I don’t want to fall into the trap of trying to create an antagonism because that’s not me. It’s not the way we want to see that.

“He knows his voice has a weight and he needs to respect that weight. Sometimes, some people can take it the wrong way and this is something we should not allow to happen.”

Despite criticism from some of the drivers, Domenicali claims that F1 fans are enjoying the racing that the new regulations have provided in the opening three events of the season.

The Italian executive said: “The result is magnificent, it’s great. Everyone is [saying], ‘Wow, what is going on?’ A lot of action, and this is what people want to see.

“Globally speaking, it has been a very positive reaction from the fans, that has been sort of now interrupted by one month where we have no races, so I’m looking forward to going back with the adjustments that we need to do together in Miami to see what will be the outcome of it.

“But the intensity and the attention on what we’re doing is fantastic. Three events sold out. In terms of viewership, we are growing and we are getting higher in terms of numbers, and the attention on our sport has never been so good.

“So, as I said, I take on board everything, but have a clear line on what we want to do for the future.”

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