Montoya claims that F1 intervened over Verstappen’s criticism – The former Formula 1 driver has suggested that the sport’s leadership may have privately urged Max Verstappen to tone down his criticism of the regulations.
Montoya has also linked the Dutchman with a potential move to Mercedes. Montoya’s comments follow recent remarks from Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, who acknowledged Verstappen’s influence within the sport.
Montoya pointed to Domenicali’s recent public comments as a sign that discussions may have taken place behind the scenes.
“Stefano Domenicali recently said in an interview that they had listened to Max and the other drivers,” Montoya told Betpack.
“But he added that Max had to be aware that his voice carried a lot of weight and that he had to be careful about what he said. It wouldn’t surprise me if people from F1 had called Max and told him to be quiet.”
“Drivers told to support F1’s direction”
The Colombian believes that, if such a message was given, it would not have been limited to Verstappen, but extended across the grid.
“I guarantee you that they spoke to him and all the drivers and told them that they could also play the game from the other side,” Montoya said. “Since then, none of the drivers have said anything.”
He argued that drivers are increasingly aware of their influence and the responsibility that comes with it.
“They need to be part of the solution rather than the problem,” he added.
“The drivers have so much power and influence over what is said. F1 has certainly told them that we are working on it, but they must support us too. And if you want to leave, the door is right there.”
Montoya summarised the situation in blunt terms, claiming that Formula 1 had ‘grabbed its stars by the balls’, as it should have done earlier in the year.
Mercedes emerges as key option for Verstappen
Beyond the governance debate, Montoya also linked the alleged discussions to Verstappen’s future in the sport, particularly amid ongoing speculation surrounding the 2026 regulation changes.
“I guarantee you that part of Max’s conversation with Stefano went something like this: ‘Where do you want to be next year?’” Montoya said.
He made it clear what he believes would be the most logical move for the reigning world champion.
“I think he wants to go to Mercedes. Absolutely. If I were Max, I would go to Mercedes.”
However, the timing of any potential move remains uncertain, especially given that Mercedes is currently balancing its own driver line-up and long-term strategy.
Russell and Antonelli complicate Mercedes’ decision
Montoya highlighted that Mercedes’ decision-making could hinge on the performances of its current and future drivers.
“The only catch is that George Russell might win the Drivers’ World Championship this season,” he explained. “Do they let the world champion go, or the promising young driver, Kimi Antonelli? I could imagine them keeping Kimi.”
This creates a complex scenario for Mercedes, who must weigh up immediate success against investing in young talent, while also considering the opportunity to sign one of the sport’s most dominant drivers.
The significance of this for F1
Montoya’s comments highlight two important themes that are shaping Formula 1 as we head into the next regulation cycle: the increasing importance of drivers in public discussions and the evolving driver market in the lead-up to 2026.
Verstappen has been one of the most vocal critics of recent rule changes, particularly those affecting car performance and the sporting format. Any attempt by the sport’s leadership to manage that messaging would signal a more controlled approach to public debate.
At the same time, uncertainty surrounding team competitiveness under the new regulations is fuelling speculation about major driver transfers. If Verstappen were to leave Red Bull, it would be one of the most significant transfers in the sport’s modern history.
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Alex Stanton is a Formula 1 journalist at TJ13 with a focus on the financial and commercial dynamics that underpin the sport. Alex contributes reporting and analysis on team ownership structures, sponsorship trends, and the evolving business model of Formula 1.
At TJ13, Alex covers topics including manufacturer investment, cost cap implications, and the strategic direction of teams navigating an increasingly complex financial environment. Alex’s work often examines how commercial decisions translate into on-track performance and long-term competitiveness.
With a strong interest in the intersection of sport and business, Alex provides context around Formula 1’s global growth, including media rights, expansion markets, and manufacturer influence.
Alex’s reporting aims to explain the financial realities behind headline stories, helping readers understand how money, governance, and strategy shape the competitive order in Formula 1.
