Lambiase's departure and the '26 regulations won't force Max out of F1 - Jos

      Jos Verstappen believes that the upcoming departure of Gianpiero Lambiase will not lead to Max Verstappen leaving Formula 1 and anticipates that his son will remain despite current frustrations with the 2026 regulations. In his first reaction to Lambiase's confirmed move to McLaren, the Dutchman emphasized that the Verstappen camp had been aware of the situation for some time.

      "We've known for a while, and we were aware of when it would happen," he stated during the TAC Rally shakedown. "We still have between one and a half to two years to work with him."

      Rather than opposing Lambiase's decision, Jos Verstappen supports the long-time Red Bull race engineer's choice to seize this chance. "It's a significant opportunity for him," he remarked. "We understand, and we've also said he must take this opportunity with both hands. Now it's Red Bull's responsibility to find a replacement. We'll see how that unfolds."

      Although Max Verstappen had previously expressed a preference for working only with Lambiase, Jos downplayed any notion that this change might hasten an unexpected retirement. "Many things have changed, especially after winning four world championships together," he noted. "Ultimately, it's up to Max, but I personally believe he will continue."

      He also thinks that forthcoming changes in Formula 1 will address some of the reasons for Verstappen's current discontent. "I think he will carry on. It seems like Formula 1 and the FIA are going to alter the regulations soon," he said. "The actions they will take this year will already be beneficial, both for the fans and the drivers, who have been voicing their complaints. I think they're aware of what needs to be done."

      However, like many in the paddock, Jos is critical of the current state of Formula 1. "As a driver, I don't find it appealing. When I watch, I often turn off the television. It's not what Formula 1 represents anymore," he commented. "The demands on drivers have lessened; it's become more of a contest among engineers. Drivers are having to hold back significantly, which diminishes their ability to stand out, and I find that unfortunate. You should be able to brake late and differentiate yourself in fast corners, but that's not achievable with these cars."

      As Max becomes more involved in GT racing, his father acknowledges the growing allure of other racing categories. "For the enthusiasts, that offers better racing than Formula 1," he said. "Initially, those GT3 drivers all aspired to compete in Formula 1, but now that ambition feels distant."