Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Max Verstappen has come under scrutiny after being urged to stop criticising Formula 1’s new 2026 regulations and instead focus on supporting Red Bull Racing through a challenging start to the season.
The Dutch driver has recorded his weakest opening to a campaign since 2018, collecting just eight points from the first two rounds in Australia and China. His difficulties were compounded by a retirement in Shanghai, where a cooling issue linked to the ERS system forced him out after 45 laps, further impacting his position in the early championship standings.
Beyond on-track performance, Verstappen has drawn attention for his outspoken criticism of the new regulations, particularly the 50:50 split between internal combustion and electrical power. He has described the current Formula 1 product as “Formula E on steroids,” likened it to “Mario Kart,” and labelled it “a joke,” while calling for regulatory changes.
Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher believes Verstappen should now shift his focus away from public criticism and contribute more directly to resolving Red Bull’s current issues.
“Max has proven that he is the fastest driver. Now, however, he has to help his team, a team that is having problems, and stop whining,” Schumacher told Sky Germany.
Schumacher also questioned Verstappen’s decision to compete in other racing categories, including his planned participation in the Nürburgring 24-hour race. He suggested that such commitments could distract from the priority of improving Red Bull’s performance in Formula 1.
“The fact that he wants to race in another series is something you can do, but it’s not necessary in this situation,” he added.
He further pointed out that the current regulations were agreed upon several years ago, with teams fully aware of the direction Formula 1 would take.
“These rules were established four years ago. At the time, all teams wanted a greater share of electric power. You shouldn’t forget that significant investments have been made into this concept,” Schumacher explained.
Despite the criticism, Verstappen is set to compete in the NLS2 event at the Nürburgring Nordschleife this weekend as part of his preparation for a full 24-hour race later in the year. He will drive a Mercedes-AMG GT3 in a factory-supported endurance racing programme outside of his Formula 1 commitments.
In contrast to Schumacher’s view, Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has expressed support for Verstappen’s involvement in other racing disciplines, suggesting it has a positive impact on both the driver and the team.
“You would think it takes a lot of energy, but it actually gives him extra strength,” Mekies stated previously.
From a competitive perspective, Red Bull now faces increasing pressure to resolve its technical challenges while adapting to the new regulatory framework, which has significantly altered car characteristics and performance balance. Verstappen’s criticism reflects broader adaptation challenges within the field, but expectations remain for tangible contributions on track.
With the season still in its early phase, attention now turns to how Verstappen and Red Bull respond, both in terms of development and race execution, as they aim to regain competitiveness ahead of the upcoming rounds in the 2026 championship.
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