Verstappen fears criticising F1 again: 'Someone outside this door will shoot me'

Speaking to the media after qualifying, Verstappen admitted that the current regulations significantly reduce the driving experience through much of Spa's second sector, where the cars rely almost entirely on internal combustion power. He pointed out that the available power is comparable to that of a Formula 3 car, despite still carrying Formula 1 levels of downforce.

The Dutchman, however, stopped short of criticising the regulations too strongly, joking that he would rather avoid another outspoken remark. Instead, he explained that he has accepted the situation mentally and is focused on adapting as best he can, even if the current characteristics are far removed from what he enjoys most about driving a Formula 1 car.

Finally, the Dutchman admitted that Spa now feels different, but stressed that he has mentally readjusted to the new reality: "It's not Pouhon, it's the whole track, it's a different Spa, but yeah, I mentally readjust to it."