Verstappen warns F1 exit is on the table if 2027 power unit rules aren't fixed

Max Verstappen has issued his starkest warning yet about his Formula 1 future, saying it would be ‘mentally not doable’ for him to continue in the sport if the flawed 2026 power unit regulations are not significantly improved for 2027. The four-time world champion made the comments on Thursday as a key reform proposal faces collapse amid manufacturer opposition.

The FIA had tabled a plan to increase fuel flow to V6 power plants and reduce the share of electric energy, moving to a 60-40 split between combustion and electrical power for 2027. While the governing body announced an ‘agreement in principle’ following initial talks, several manufacturers have since backtracked or raised objections over the timeline, with some pushing to delay the changes to 2028 and make only minor adjustments next year.

Verstappen, who has been the most vocal critic of the current regulations, described the 60-40 proposal as a ‘very positive’ step. His Red Bull team, which builds its own engines in partnership with Ford, supports the change, as does Mercedes. But with the proposal now threatened by paddock politics, Verstappen aligned himself with Williams driver Carlos Sainz in calling on the FIA to force the changes through — something the governing body could theoretically do on safety grounds.

‘Of course, I agree. And it will be better for the sport as a whole,’ Verstappen said, responding to Sainz’s call for the FIA to take a tough stance. ‘I can tell you if it stays like this, then.... let’s see. It’s just mentally not doable for me to stay like this, absolutely not.’

Having spent a decade in Formula 1, Verstappen said he was not surprised the proposed change had become political, though he remained cautiously hopeful the 60-40 split could still be delivered.

‘That’s Formula 1 for you. It’s simply like that. It’s a bit of a shame,’ he said. ‘Let’s stay on the positive side. We’re still looking towards making those changes. And of course, some people that at the moment maybe have a bit of an advantage will try to be difficult about it. But if the FIA is strong and also from the F1 management side, they just need to do it.’

The remarks add significant pressure on the FIA and Formula 1 management ahead of what is shaping up to be a contentious regulatory battle, with one of the sport’s biggest names making clear his patience has limits.