Max Verstappen has delivered his strongest indication yet that he will remain in Formula 1 beyond the current season, describing proposed engine regulation changes for 2027 as a “very positive” development that makes his continued presence on the grid considerably more likely.

Speaking in the Montreal paddock ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, the Red Bull driver confirmed that the planned shift away from the current 50-50 power split between internal combustion and electrical elements has addressed his primary concerns about the direction of the sport.

A Step in the Right Direction

The FIA announced earlier this month that teams and power unit manufacturers had reached an agreement in principle to move toward a 60-40 split favoring the internal combustion engine (ICE) from 2027 onwards. The changes aim to reduce the excessive lifting-and-coasting that has characterized the 2026 regulations, which drivers have widely criticized.

“I mean, it’s definitely heading into a very positive direction. I think it’s like the minimum I was hoping for, and I think it’s really nice that that’s what they want to do. That’s definitely what I think also the sport needs.” — Max Verstappen, speaking to Motorsport.com

Verstappen has been among the most vocal critics of the current technical regulations, previously likening the driving style required to “Mario Kart” and expressing frustration at the battery-management-heavy approach that has defined the 2026 season.

Staying in F1

When asked directly whether the proposed changes help convince him to stay in Formula 1 next year, Verstappen left little room for doubt.

“Yes, definitely. I mean, I just want a good product in Formula 1 and that will for sure improve the product.” — Max Verstappen

While stopping short of providing a definitive yes-or-no answer regarding his 2027 plans, the Dutchman emphasized that the likelihood of his continuation has increased significantly. He stressed that his happiness with the sport’s trajectory is paramount to his decision-making process.

Political Hurdles Remain

Despite the positive momentum, Verstappen cautioned that the changes are not yet fully ratified. Formally, the 2027 regulations remain under discussion, with technical details still being negotiated behind closed doors. Some manufacturers are reportedly advocating for solutions closer to existing designs, potentially seeking competitive advantages.

Verstappen stressed that these political considerations must not derail the broader improvements.

“That’s why we have to wait and see until it’s fully confirmed. But that definitely needs to happen.” — Max Verstappen on finalizing the 2027 rules

Drivers’ Voices Being Heard

The reigning four-time world champion expressed satisfaction that the FIA and Formula 1 management are actively listening to driver feedback. He revealed he had participated in meetings with FOM, the FIA, and fellow drivers earlier in the year to discuss the sport’s direction.

“It’s just great that they’re open-minded and they listen to the drivers,” Verstappen said. “Because I think we speak, or at least most of us speak, in the interest of the sport. We just want to make it a better product.”

Red Bull Progress Adds Confidence

Beyond the regulatory changes, Verstappen pointed to Red Bull’s ongoing development as another factor encouraging him to stay. “I see the team really progressing and that’s also very exciting to see,” he noted, adding that he had always wanted to continue racing but needed to see meaningful change in the sport’s approach.

The proposed 2027 package must still pass through the formal governance process, including the F1 Commission, the Power Unit Advisory Committee, and the FIA World Motor Sport Council, before being finalized later this year.