Max Verstappen Criticises ‘Anti-Racing’ Formula 1 Despite Canadian GP…read more
Max Verstappen has renewed his criticism of modern Formula 1 regulations after an intense and dramatic Canadian Grand Prix, describing elements of the sport as becoming “anti-racing” following a thrilling battle with Lewis Hamilton in Montreal.
The reigning world champion endured a difficult start to the weekend after Red Bull struggled badly in qualifying. Verstappen could only secure a position further down the grid than expected, leaving him with a mountain to climb on race day at the Canadian Grand Prix.
However, the Dutchman produced one of his trademark recovery drives to secure his first podium finish of the 2026 campaign. Verstappen crossed the line in third place behind Hamilton, while Mercedes youngster Kimi Antonelli claimed victory after a chaotic and unpredictable race in changing conditions.
Much of the excitement during the latter stages centered on the fierce wheel-to-wheel contest between Verstappen and Hamilton, rekindling memories of their famous championship rivalry from previous seasons. Fans were treated to several tense laps as the Ferrari driver searched for a way past the Red Bull.
The battle intensified after George Russell retired from the race due to a battery failure while fighting Antonelli for the lead. Russell’s exit transformed the race dynamics and elevated the fight for the remaining podium positions.
For several laps Verstappen defended aggressively but fairly, positioning his Red Bull perfectly to prevent Hamilton from making a clean move. Hamilton repeatedly pressured the Dutchman through the final sector, staying within striking distance as the laps counted down.
The decisive moment finally arrived on lap 62 when Hamilton produced a sensational overtake around the outside into Turn 1. The Ferrari driver carried immense speed into the corner and completed one of the standout moves of the season, leaving spectators inside the circuit roaring with excitement.
Hamilton’s pass secured second place and marked his strongest result since joining Ferrari. The seven-time world champion appeared emotional after the race, celebrating enthusiastically with his team following months of criticism and difficult results during his first year with the Scuderia.
Despite earning a podium, Verstappen was far from satisfied afterward. Speaking to the media following the race, the Red Bull star voiced frustration with what he sees as Formula 1 moving away from pure racing. Although he did not directly target a single rule, Verstappen suggested that modern racing standards and regulations can sometimes discourage hard wheel-to-wheel battles.
The Dutch driver argued that drivers are increasingly limited in how aggressively they can defend or attack without risking penalties or investigations from stewards. Verstappen’s comments add to a growing debate within Formula 1 regarding whether current racing guidelines are too restrictive.
Even so, the race itself delivered one of the most entertaining grands prix of the season so far. The dramatic duel between Verstappen and Hamilton provided a reminder of their legendary rivalry and gave fans a glimpse of the intense competition that could define the remainder of the 2026 campaign.