Stefano Domenicali, Formula 1’s CEO, has addressed the sweeping alterations to the conventional format of F1 amidst Max Verstappen’s criticisms.
Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, has hinted at possibly leaving F1 ahead of his 2028 contract’s conclusion, citing the rule shifts tailored for the ‘show’ as a primary concern.
Responding to Verstappen’s comments, Domenicali mentioned to Dutch publication De Telegraaf, “I think it’s good that Max gives his opinion. But we can’t put the sport in the hands of the drivers.
“It’s not because they can’t be trusted, because I listen to them, but they also have to look at the bigger picture, and they don’t always do that,” he elucidated.
He further explained that while drivers aim for speed, the organization’s goal is the sport’s overall well-being.
Domenicali acknowledges the weight of high-profile driver remarks on the public but underscores the positive turn F1 has taken due to recent changes.
“I think we have done that in recent years, otherwise we would have been in a different position,” he said.
Detailing on his interaction with Max, Domenicali noted, “The drivers shouldn’t have all the power after all – I talk about that with Max.
” He is honest and I appreciate that and I can even personally agree with him, but my own opinion doesn’t always matter either.”
Domenicali highlighted his responsibility to oversee global trends and make decisions beneficial for the sport.
He acknowledged, “Of course there are seasoned fans who have grown up with Formula 1 and only want to do it one way, but there are also many new fans who are open to other things.
“As you also see with MotoGP, American football and other sports, the traditional approach is being abandoned, and we were one of the first to do so.”
