"If the rules don't change, I'm out!" Max Verstappen's shocking 2027 ultimatum to the FIA and teams

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has made it clear that he will immediately end his Formula 1 career if the radical rule changes planned for 2027 are blocked, expressing his deep dissatisfaction with the current car design.

Speaking after the qualifying sessions for the Canadian Grand Prix, the Red Bull driver openly demonstrated his lack of enjoyment in racing the current generation of cars. Expecting the FIA and FOM to implement hardware changes that would make the cars easier to drive and more normal, Verstappen reacted strongly to the risk of this process being sabotaged by certain manufacturers. While Red Bull and Mercedes support this reform package, which alters the balance between internal combustion and electrical energy, some other manufacturers are demanding a postponement to 2028, citing costs and development restrictions.

Addressing the possibility of the current situation continuing, the Dutch driver stated: "If it stays like this, it's going to be a long year next year, which I don't want. It's just mentally not doable for me to stay like this. Absolutely not," delivering an ultimatum. When asked if he would consider a sabbatical to return in 2028 in the event of a delay, he firmly rejected the idea, noting that there are plenty of other fun alternatives to pursue outside of F1.

Arguing that the governing body must stand firm against political maneuvers, Verstappen agreed with Carlos Sainz's view that the FIA should not compromise, emphasizing that strict reforms are the right choice for the sport as a whole.

(Source: The Race)