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Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has sparked controversy after suggesting that reigning champion Max Verstappen should face disciplinary action for his criticism of Formula 1âs 2026 regulations.
Speaking on the BBCâs Chequered Flag podcast, Montoya argued that Verstappenâs comments about the sport had crossed a line and warranted consequences from the FIA.
âYouâve got to respect the sport⌠there should be consequences for that,â Montoya said.
â ď¸ Call for penalty points
Montoya proposed adding 7â8 penalty points to Verstappenâs super licence â a move that would bring him close to the 12-point threshold that triggers an automatic race ban.
Verstappen currently holds three points, meaning such a sanction would put him under immediate pressure for the rest of the season.
âPark him⌠I guarantee the messaging would be different,â Montoya added.
đ Verstappenâs criticism of 2026 F1 rules
The Red Bull driver has been one of the most vocal critics of the new regulations, describing them as:
- âAnti-racingâ
- âFormula E on steroidsâ
- Comparable to âMario Kartâ
He has particularly taken issue with energy management systems, arguing that they force drivers to drive slower at times to optimize performance.
Despite updates introduced before the Miami Grand Prix, Verstappen maintained that the rules remain âpunishing.â
đ§ Politics vs opinion
Montoya acknowledged that drivers have the right to express opinions but insisted criticism should remain constructive.
He also hinted at internal team dynamics influencing driver comments:
âThe politics of the sport are really important⌠a lot of messaging is guided.â
Verstappen, however, has repeatedly stated that his stance predates current performance issues, pointing out he first raised concerns back in 2023 when Red Bull was dominant.
đ Season context
- Verstappen currently sits 7th in the standings
- Red Bull has shown incremental improvements
- Debate over 2026 rules continues across the paddock
đ Reference
- RacingNews365 article (user-provided content)
