F1 insider reveals the drivers that Max Verstappen is terrified of in 2026

15:01, 16 Feb

byTobia Elia

David Coulthard has responded to Max Verstappen’s scathing criticism of the 2026 regulations.

“He has every right to have an opinion on the driving experience. But that won’t be on his mind when he gets to Melbourne”

- David Coulthard

Verstappen identifies his real 2026 rivals in chat with Coulthard

Speaking to talkSPORT, the former Formula 1 driver believes that once it is time to get serious and focus on winning in Melbourne, the Dutchman will put all his criticism to one side and concentrate solely on what truly matters: victory.

“At the end of the day, when it comes to racing and the lights go out, you just want to be fast and you want to be first. So testing aside, he’s now in his 12th season of Formula One. He’s been around for a few years, he’s earned the respect of his competitors and he has every right to have an opinion on the driving experience, but that won’t be on his mind when he gets to Melbourne.

“He’ll simply be thinking: how do I exploit this potential to the best of my ability? There will be a winner at the end — that’s the wonderful thing about racing. Once all the talking stops, it’s about the stopwatch and the chequered flag.”

Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

Coulthard also revealed that he recently spoke with the four-time world champion, during which Verstappen made it clear who he believes his true rivals will be next season: “He said anyone with a Mercedes engine.”

“There are three teams running Mercedes power: Mercedes themselves, McLaren of course, and Williams. Williams look a little bit on the back foot. Right now, if you had to place a bet, George Russell for world champion is probably not a bad shout — but never write off Max.”

Formula E team rolls out red carpet for Verstappen: 'We’re waiting for your call'

The Dutchman’s comments on the new regulations spread rapidly across the paddock and beyond, with Verstappen standing out as the most vocal critic among the drivers, making no secret of his dissatisfaction with a new generation of cars that has only recently been introduced.

Capitalising on the moment, Formula E team Cupra Kiro — currently sitting third from the bottom of the standings — took to social media with a playful message, tagging the four-time world champion and cheekily adding a message.

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