In a sequence of robust feedback in opposition to Max Verstappen, former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya known as for a race ban to be levied in opposition to the Dutchman.
Verstappen has been a vocal critic of the brand new F1 vehicles, calling them out for missing energy and for boring racing.
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He has not modified his tone regardless of tweaks to the laws, and he has even hinted at strolling away from the game.
Montoya made an look on the BBC’s Chequered Flag, the place he known as out drivers who’ve unfavourable opinions on the regulation and voiced them.
Apr 30, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Crimson Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen (3) seems to be on from the paddock space at Miami Worldwide Autodrome. Necessary Credit score: Sam Navarro-Imagn Pictures
Within the former driver’s eyes, any pilot of an F1 automobile has the accountability to be an envoy for the game quite than an goal critic.
“You’ve obtained to respect the game,” Montoya mentioned on the podcast.
“For me, what the drivers have been doing… I’m OK you not liking the laws, however the way in which you have been talking about what you’re residing off and your individual sport, you ought to be… there needs to be penalties for that.”
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Montoya was requested what the results ought to appear to be, and he didn’t maintain again, believing they need to be an outright suspension and lacking a race.
“Park him,” Montoya additional defined. “Yeah, add seven factors to the license, eight factors to the license… No matter you do after, you’re gonna be parked.
“And I assure you, all of the messages could be totally different. I’m not saying ‘don’t be outspoken’, however don’t come and name an F1 automobile a Mario Kart.”
Why does Montoya have a difficulty with Verstappen?
The Spanish driver has a longstanding rift with Helmut Marko, an in depth member of Verstappen’s workforce and the one that introduced the four-time champion into the game.
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Marko has claimed that Montoya “didn’t benefit from his talents.” Throughout his profession, Montoya received seven races out of 94 begins for Williams and McLaren.
Seemingly, the specter of lacking a race wouldn’t cease Verstappen, who is thought for talking his thoughts always and being as blunt as attainable.
Verstappen will proceed to complain concerning the guidelines till no less than 2027, when the game can deliver alongside extra radical adjustments.
Till then, it is going to be small tweaks that may ideally present extra energy to the vehicles and unlock on-track battles.
