Domenicali drops major Verstappen hint while discussing 2027 rules

Stefano Domenicali has opened a fascinating window into the sport’s future by revealing that Max Verstappen was directly consulted on the sport’s planned 2027 regulation changes – and the F1 chief believes the four-time world champion will still be on the grid when they arrive.

The revelation comes at a delicate moment for Verstappen. The Dutchman has endured a frustrating 2026 campaign, sitting only sixth in the standings and still searching for his first victory of the season as Red Bull struggles to recapture its former dominance.

At the heart of the debate is Formula 1’s new power-unit formula. The 2026 rules introduced a 50-50 split between electrical power and the internal combustion engine, a move that has divided opinion across the paddock. Verstappen has been among the most vocal critics, particularly regarding the aggressive energy-harvesting demands placed on drivers.

Now, with F1 considering a revised 58-42 split in favour of the combustion engine for 2027 before moving to 60-40 in 2028, Domenicali says early feedback has been encouraging.

Verstappen in the conversation

“For the drivers that have already driven the change of next year on the simulator, [they say] that it’s going in the right direction,” Domenicali told reporters.

“And also, with Max, we discussed that.

“We don’t have to forget that there is a governance in place that, to change regulations, teams and manufacturer need to be in agreement with the position of the FIA and us (FOM).”

Domenicali’s comments suggest Verstappen has not been a distant critic throwing stones from the sidelines, but an active participant in discussions about the sport’s technical direction.

The timing is particularly intriguing because speculation over Verstappen’s future has intensified throughout the season. With no wins on the board and dissatisfaction over the current regulations, rumours have ranged from a move to a rival team to the possibility of stepping away from Formula 1 altogether.

‘Max will stay with us’

Domenicali, however, sounded notably confident when asked about Verstappen’s reaction to the proposed changes.

“I think Max would be very happy,” the Italian said. “I think that Max is in a situation where he loves Formula 1, he loves the future. We are discussing together his future, and the regulations for the future.

“I have an incredible relationship with him.”

For a driver whose public comments have often hinted at frustration with the sport’s direction, Domenicali’s remarks paint a very different picture behind closed doors: one of ongoing dialogue rather than impending separation.

The F1 chief stopped short of speaking for Verstappen, but his optimism was unmistakable.

“Formula 1 is big enough for him to be part of us, but of course, he will decide the future the way he prefers to do, and the sport will look ahead,” he concluded.

“My opinion is that Max will stay with us. And I really hope so.”

• Read also: Domenicali: Drivers may complain, but F1 must 'follow the fans'

With the Dutch Grand Prix now only two weeks away, attention is turning toward Verstappen’s next move.

Whether he remains with Red Bull or chooses a different path, Domenicali’s comments suggest Formula 1 is planning for a future that still includes its biggest star – and is willing to shape its rules with his feedback in mind.

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