Coulthard shares Verstappen confession on who he really fears in 2026

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.

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.”

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.