Max Verstappen returned to the Formula 1 paddock in Montreal after spending his break racing GT3 on the Nordschleife. The four-time world champion has long criticized the 2026 technical regulations, but developments since Miami have changed his outlook. The FIA announced an agreement in principle for a 60-40 ICE-to-electric power split, achieved partly through fuel flow adjustments and a 50kW reduction in electric power share.

When asked by Autosport if the changes align with what he wanted, Verstappen said the shift is "definitely heading into a very positive direction" and represents the minimum he had hoped for. Asked whether this helps convince him to remain in F1 next season, he said yes, definitely, because the changes will "for sure improve the product." He hasn't given a definitive yes-or-no answer yet, but he acknowledged the likelihood of staying has increased.

Behind the scenes, technical discussions remain politically sensitive. Some manufacturers are pushing for solutions that stay closer to their current setups, which Verstappen warned should not be allowed to block the changes. He held meetings earlier this year with FOM, other drivers, and the FIA, and expressed satisfaction that they're open-minded and listening. "I think we speak in the interest of the sport," he said.

Regardless of the final technical implementation, Verstappen views the 2027 overhaul as a win that the FIA and F1 are now taking driver input seriously. The current regulations have drawn sharp criticism from multiple fronts, and he made clear that political considerations must not stand in the way of meaningful change.