Max Verstappen: The likelihood that I will stay is increasing.

      Max Verstappen assured that he will remain in Formula 1 if the amendments to the technical regulations, which limit the dependence of power units on the electrical energy provided by hybrid systems, are successfully implemented by the next season.

      The four-time world champion is one of those who has criticized the 2026 regulations the loudest; he is categorically unhappy that the new generation of technology requires a peculiar approach, where the driver has to think not about driving at the limits of the car's capabilities, but rather about maintaining the battery charge at the necessary level.

      During the Japanese stage of the season, he even hinted that he has doubts about whether to continue his career in Formula 1 if he no longer derives the same pleasure from racing.

      However, in early May, the championship teams and its organizers reached a number of important agreements that by 2027, certain changes must be made to the design of power units. The essence of these changes is to increase the mass fuel consumption to boost the power of the internal combustion engine (ICE) by 50 kW, while the power of the electric component of the power unit will be reduced from 350 kW to 300 kW. That is, the power ratio between the ICE and the hybrid system will no longer be 50/50, but closer to 60/40.

      In Montreal, Verstappen was, of course, asked about this, and he stated that things are moving in the right direction:

      "Such changes are the minimum I hoped for. Certainly, this increases the likelihood that I will stay. I just want Formula 1 as a product to remain good, and such measures will indeed benefit it. I hope these changes will be implemented next year, and this will help a lot.

      I have always said, it doesn't matter whether I have a good car or not – what matters is that everything is fine with Formula 1. Naturally, I think that the pleasure from racing will also increase. Overall, this means that my mood will improve – and that is exactly what is needed for me to stay in Formula 1.

      I enjoy racing for Red Bull Racing; the team is making real progress, and that makes me very happy. In any case, I have always wanted to continue my career in F1, but I have always wanted to see changes for the better, and the changes that have already been promised are a very positive step. I would say it's almost a return to a normal level. Overall, this is good. Such changes are definitely necessary."