The four-time world champion has been a harsh critic of the 2026 rules, claiming the heavy focus on energy management is "anti-racing" and "Formula E on steroids," but he has also admitted that the huge reset could make for "exciting" viewing as F1 enters the great unknown.

Speaking to Apple TV, the Red Bull driver was asked what fans could expect from the 2026 season, with the Dutchman choosing to preview what he believes will be a "pretty insane" year.

Verstappen said: "This year is going to be pretty insane with all the new rules as well.

"So probably a big upset as well between teams from what you have seen the last few years. And a lot still unknown. Also for us, we don't know what to expect really. And I think that also makes it very exciting for everyone watching, not knowing, you know, what's going to happen.

"It’s a big change,” Verstappen continued, before adding that the "basics" of driving in F1 will be different thanks to the 2026 rules.

“Honestly, it’s like the biggest change in over 10 years. It’s exciting at the same time. As a driver, when you’ve been driving a similar car for a few years, of course it evolves but the basics are the same. And that will change a little bit or quite a bit this year.”

The 28-year-old also spoke on Ford's return to F1, with the American giant entering the sport for the first time in over 20 years as Red Bull's power unit partner.

"Of course with Ford coming back, yeah I think it’s a very exciting partnership," Verstappen added.

“They have a lot of history in the sport, in Formula One as well, so yeah everyone is just super excited to get started now."

After pre-season testing, however, Verstappen has admitted that Red Bull "need to take another step" in order to compete for wins with the likes of Mercedes and Ferrari, claiming his team are not "able to fight for the win" yet in 2026.

The Dutchman praised the "extraordinary" efforts to deliver the Red Bull-Ford power unit, but tempered early expectations on Red Bull ahead of the season-opener in Melbourne.