Max Verstappen reveals what FIA have told him about changing 2026 regulations

Max Verstappen has revealed his conversations with the FIA surrounding the 2026 regulations amid concerns the Dutchman could leave F1.

The Dutchman got off to a disappointing start to the new F1 season, only managing sixth after crashing out in the first round of qualifying.

Verstappen's teammate Isack Hadjar had the pace for third over a single lap, but his new Red Bull power-unit suffered serious issues causing him to retire during the early stages of the grand prix.

This weekend's Chinese Grand Prix will be the first sprint weekend of the new regulations, with drivers having just one free practice to dial in before the first competitive session.

The new regulations have been extremely controversial, and Verstappen has been the main voice of opposition, previously describing it as 'Formula E on steroids'.

Verstappen's comments raised doubts over his future in the sport, given the 28-year-old is already confirmed to be racing in the Nordschleife 24 hours enduro in May of this year.

However, speaking in China ahead of this weekend's race, Verstappen insisted he does not want to leave F1, but find solutions with the FIA to improve the situation.

"No, I don't want to leave. But I also hope of course that it gets better," he told the media in China.

"I've had discussions with FOM and the FIA, and I think we are working towards something."

Max Verstappen leaving the pitlane in Australia (credit: getty)

When asked last week on the FIA's stance, Verstappen claimed 'they are willing to listen' and talks on potential changes to the regulations are now scheduled in China.

Speaking via The Race following the Australian GP, the FIA's single seater director Nikolas Tombazis confirmed their are alterations that can be made.

"Our intention is after China to be reviewing the energy management situation," he explained.

"We have a few aces up our sleeves on that, which we didn't want to introduce ahead of the first race as a kneejerk reaction, and which we will review with the teams after China.

"We need to have a great spectacle, the best cars in the world and the best drivers, and being exciting for the fans.

"That's why we just need to look at the product, if it needs to be tweaked, if we need to adjust, I think we have the flexibility in Formula 1 to always take those decisions," he added.