APEX RACEWIRE Newsroom
F1 top thought about rule change 'for' Max Verstappen
A leader within Formula 1 recently unveiled a striking plan to adjust the sporting regulations with Max Verstappen in mind.
By Sanne Vermeer - 2026-07-29T12:58:12.000Z - 3 min read
A remarkable revelation from the highest echelons of Formula 1 is currently doing the rounds. A manager within the sport hinted that at some point consideration was given to adjusting the applicable regulations, specifically with Max Verstappen in mind. It was an idea that could potentially have had a significant impact on the dynamics of the matches.
The idea to adjust the rules of the game probably arose from the constant search for an exciting and unpredictable sport. Although the exact nature of the adjustment considered has not been made public, the approach was clearly aimed at the influence of the Dutch top driver. Such strategic considerations are inherent in a sport like Formula 1, where competition and entertainment go hand in hand.
According to the top official in question, Verstappen would have been 'very happy' with the proposed change at the time. This implies that the plan was not an attempt to hinder his performance, but rather to stimulate him in some other way or enrich the racing action. It shows that behind the scenes there is active thought about increasing the attractiveness for both drivers and the global audience.
The idea of adapting rules with an individual driver in mind, even if this remains at a conceptual level, highlights the delicate balance that the Formula 1 organization must maintain. On the one hand, there is the desire to break any dominance and intensify the battle for leadership; on the other hand, the sporting integrity and fairness of the competition must be guaranteed at all times. Such an approach can always count on the necessary discussion within the paddock.
It is important to emphasize that this is a line of thought or early consideration, and not a concrete proposal that has actually gone through the official channels. Many ideas are discussed behind the scenes before they possibly become public or end up on the FIA agenda. This particular plan has apparently stalled at an early stage.
The Formula 1 organization is continuously evaluating both its sporting and technical regulations. This is usually done for safety, cost control and, not unimportantly, the spectacle for the fans. The recent revelation offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes, where people sometimes dare to think beyond the current status quo.
Ultimately, the rules were not changed in the way this official had in mind at the time. Still, the anecdote sheds interesting light on the dynamics between sports management and the leading figures on the grid. It illustrates the constant trade-off between preserving tradition and the urge for innovation at the top of motorsport.