Montoya calls for Max Verstappen suspension over criticism of F1 2026 rules

Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has called for drastic action against Max Verstappen, suggesting that the four-time reigning world champion should face a potential race ban in response to his ongoing criticism of the 2026 regulations.

Speaking on the BBC’s Chequered Flag podcast, Montoya argued that the FIA must take a firm stance to protect the sport’s image, even proposing the allocation of a significant number of penalty points that could result in Verstappen being banned from a race.

 

Montoya calls for FIA intervention

Montoya’s comments represent one of the strongest reactions yet to Verstappen’s outspoken stance on the new era of Formula 1 cars. The Colombian believes that the governing body cannot allow leading drivers to openly undermine the sport without consequence.

“You have to show respect for the sport you live for,” he said. He went further by proposing a significant sanction: “Park him. Add seven points to his licence; add eight points to his licence. Whatever you do after that, you get parked. I guarantee you that all the reports would be different.”

Under current FIA rules, a driver who accumulates 12 penalty points on their super licence within a 12-month period receives an automatic one-race suspension. Verstappen currently has three points on his licence following an incident with George Russell at the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix, so Montoya’s suggestion would put him close to the threshold.

 

‘Mario Kart’ criticism sparks backlash

Verstappen has repeatedly compared the 2026 cars to “Mario Kart”, a remark that has drawn criticism from figures across the paddock. While Montoya acknowledged that drivers have every right to express dissatisfaction, he argued that Verstappen’s language crossed a line.

“I’m not saying, ‘Don’t say you don’t like the regulations,’ because if you don’t like them, you have every right to an opinion,” Montoya explained. “It’s okay to be outspoken. But don’t call an F1 car a Mario Kart.”

Verstappen has consistently voiced his frustration at the direction of the new regulations, describing the cars as “anti-racing” and likening them to “Formula E on steroids”. He has continued to make these comments despite the minor adjustments introduced by the FIA earlier in the season.

 

This is a familiar pattern in Formula 1 history

Tensions between drivers and regulations are nothing new in Formula 1. Throughout the sport’s history, leading figures have often challenged the rules — sometimes controversially. For example, Jackie Stewart famously pushed for safety reforms in the 1970s, while Alain Prost criticised turbo-era cars in the 1980s as ‘dangerous monsters’.

However, there is a key distinction in the current debate. Earlier criticisms were frequently rooted in safety concerns, whereas Verstappen’s remarks target the cars’ fundamental racing characteristics. This has made his comments more sensitive, particularly given his status as one of the sport’s most influential drivers.

History also suggests that outspoken criticism does not always lead to regulatory change. Complaints about the sound of the V6 hybrid engines introduced in 2014 ultimately had little impact on the direction of the rules, for example.

 

The 2026 rules and Red Bull’s struggles

The 2026 regulations represent one of the most significant overhauls in modern Formula 1, combining lighter chassis with increased reliance on electrical power and active aerodynamics. Central to this concept are the X-mode and Z-mode systems, which alter downforce and energy deployment dynamically.

These changes have proven divisive among drivers, with Verstappen being one of the most vocal critics. His frustrations have coincided with a challenging start to the season for Red Bull Racing, who have struggled to adapt to the new philosophy.

After four races, Verstappen is seventh in the championship with 26 points, which is a stark contrast to his dominant performances under the previous regulations. His last victories came at the end of 2025, before the rule changes took effect, highlighting the magnitude of the shift.

While technical issues with the RB22 have contributed to Red Bull’s difficulties, the new rules have also reduced the scope for teams to gain a decisive edge through traditional aerodynamic development — an area in which Red Bull previously excelled.

 

Politics, influence, and Verstappen’s stance

Montoya also raised the possibility that Verstappen’s comments could be influenced by team strategy rather than personal opinion alone. He suggested that messaging in Formula 1 is often shaped by broader political considerations.

“There are two things,” Montoya said. “One is what he really feels, and the other is what the team is probably asking him to say. The politics of the sport are really important, and much of the message that drivers convey is manipulated.”

However, Verstappen has consistently rejected this idea, maintaining that his concerns predate Red Bull’s current struggles. He has pointed out that he first raised issues with the 2026 concept in 2023, when the team was still dominating the sport.

His position in the standings has intensified the scrutiny of his comments. With rivals gaining ground and Red Bull no longer setting the standard, Verstappen’s criticism carries greater weight, both as a reflection of his competitive frustration and as a broader challenge to the direction of the sport.