Max Verstappen goes against Lewis Hamilton over ‘shouting’ for V10s in F1

Max Verstappen isn't too impressed with Lewis Hamilton publicly shouting in favor of the return of the V10 engines to Formula 1.

Max Verstappen goes against Lewis Hamilton over ‘shouting’ for V10s in F1

Lewis Hamilton (via Getty), Max Verstappen (via Red Bull)

Formula 1 is set to undergo a massive chassis and engine regulation change in the 2026 season. With the changing regulations, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem urged the sport to bring back the naturally aspirated V10 engines potentially. While most drivers seemed for the motion on the status quo, Max Verstappen has taken a neutral stance.

Red Bull boss Christian Horner, among many other notable people, supported the idea of bringing back the V10 engines. Even Lewis Hamilton believed that the return of naturally aspirated engines was a good idea. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen, who has been critical of the recent electrification of Formula 1, has waged his opinion on the matter.

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Verstappen initially highlighted that bringing back the V10 engines was a very good idea. However, the 27-year-old raised concerns about the possibility of returning to non-hybrid power units. The Dutchman added that the situation needed to be figured out behind closed doors. Moreover, the reigning champion called out others to not keep ‘shouting’ their opinions and solve them first.

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I think it’s a very good idea [that of the V10], but the question is whether it’s possible to do it. I think it’s better not to ‘shout’ so many things and instead solve this kind of issue behind the scenes. It’s better for everyone.

Max Verstappen said, as reported by formulapassion.it.

F1 Supremo picks Max Verstappen to win the 2025 drivers’ title

Red Bull’s challenger struggles seem to carry over in the RB21 as the team suffered from mediocre results in the pre-season testing. Verstappen didn’t seem too confident with the balance of the chassis and might face struggles to win races. Regardless, F1 Supremo Bernie Ecclestone raised confidence in the Dutchman’s capabilities.

Max Verstappen
Max Verstappen (via Motorsport.com)

Ecclestone insists that he is pleased with the drivers’ title seemingly open for multiple drivers at the forefront. Regardless, the Briton speculates that Verstappen would still win the drivers’ title despite racing in an inferior chassis.

I’m pleased in lots of ways that it (the championship) is open in the way that it is, and it’s good. I still think Max will win.

Bernie Ecclestone told Reuters.

The 2025 season is likely to be extremely competitive at the forefront amongst multiple teams and drivers. Verstappen gears up for the massive task of keeping up with performances amidst Red Bull’s incessant struggles. Now, time will tell about how the Austrian constructor develops the chassis throughout the season against the rivals ever-growing pace.