Verstappen hints at F1 stay as racing nears 'normal'

Max Verstappen stated that planned changes to Formula 1's engine rules for 2027 would return racing "almost back to normal" and indicated he would remain in the sport as a result. He commented after the Japanese Grand Prix about his future, attributing his concerns to the negative impact of the new engines on the driving experience this year.

F1 officials are developing modifications to transition away from a 50-50 split between internal combustion and electrical power, aiming to ease the energy management that has become prevalent throughout the current season. Verstappen expressed optimism, saying, "It will make the product better, so that means that I'm happier. And that's what I want. To be able to continue and perform well."

Verstappen noted his contentment with his current situation, highlighting the progress of his team. He mentioned, "I always wanted to continue anyway. But I always wanted to see change. And I think the change that's coming now is definitely very positive. Or, at least, I would say almost back to normal - so that's good."

When asked if these changes would influence his decision to stay in F1 next year, he affirmed, "Yeah, definitely. I just want a good product in Formula 1. And that will for sure improve the product."

He anticipated that these adjustments would significantly benefit the sport, expressing that the product quality directly impacts driver enjoyment. Current world champion Lando Norris supported the changes, stating, "That’s a great direction that we all welcome as drivers. We all want that."

His teammate Oscar Piastri described it as a positive step, although he noted, "It’s not fixed." Mercedes driver George Russell shared his agreement, emphasizing that the rule changes could reduce the current issues where cars lose speed toward the end of straightaways due to engine recharging.

The adjustments are likely to be implemented by increasing the fuel flow to the internal combustion engine, but significant challenges remain regarding engine design and fuel tank size. Compromises under discussion continue in Montreal this weekend, with time and budget constraints for manufacturers regarding development presenting ongoing challenges.

Verstappen recently participated in the Nurburgring 24 Hours race, where his car led before a driveshaft failure hampered his chances of victory. Reflecting on the experience, he remarked, "Overall it was just a great week. I enjoyed it a lot. Of course, it was going to be my first big endurance race... Unfortunately it’s still a mechanical sport at the end of the day. We had that failure which, of course, cost us the win." He cited the experience as rewarding and expressed his desire to return in the future, stating, "I want to win it. So I want to go back."