Coulthard doubts FIA action in response to Max Verstappen's F1 exit threat

Verstappen's criticism of the new F1 rules are well-documented by now, as the Dutchman's "Formula E on steroids" remarks in pre-season have been followed up with comparisons to "Mario Kart."

Perhaps most worryingly, however, the Dutchman has publicly started to ponder life out of F1, admitting his frustration with the 2026 generation of cars has him wondering whether continuing is "worth it."

While he says otherwise, the poor performance of his RB22 surely ought to be a factor in Verstappen's early season outbursts, with the 28-year-old currently sat in P9 in the Drivers' standings and Red Bull all the way down in sixth in the Constructors'.

For Coulthard, however, Verstappen's comments threatening to leave the sport are not likely to influence any changes the FIA make to the current F1 rules and regulations.

Speaking on the Up To Speed Podcast, the F1 legend said: "I don’t think they will.

Despite his praise with regard to him speaking up, Coulthard believes F1 can continue without Verstappen, even if an early departure would be a "huge loss" for the sport.

Coulthard continued: "The sport is bigger than any individual driver. The sport has been around for a long time, will continue to be around.

“But, I think that it would be a huge loss if Max was to take time out.”

As for where Verstappen could go post-F1, Coulthard pointed to the Dutchman's other interests in motorsport, but also highlighted that the Red Bull driver could easily make a return to F1.