Does Eddie Irvine think F1 needs Max Verstappen?

No, Eddie Irvine stated that Formula 1 does not need Max Verstappen.

What is a major reason for Max Verstappen to stay in F1, according to Irvine?

According to Irvine, Max Verstappen's substantial salary, estimated at over €50 million, is a significant financial incentive to remain in F1.

What are Max Verstappen and Eddie Irvine's opinions on the 2026 F1 regulations?

Both Max Verstappen and Eddie Irvine have criticized the 2026 Formula 1 regulations, describing them as 'anti-racing' and overly focused on battery management rather than driving skill.

Home / Sports / Irvine: F1 Doesn't Need Verstappen, Salary is Key

Irvine: F1 Doesn't Need Verstappen, Salary is Key

6 Apr

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Summary

Eddie Irvine stated F1 does not require Max Verstappen.
Verstappen's substantial salary offers strong financial incentive to stay.
Both Irvine and Verstappen criticize 2026 regulations as 'anti-racing'.

Irvine: F1 Doesn't Need Verstappen, Salary is Key

Former Ferrari driver Eddie Irvine has stated that Formula 1 does not need Max Verstappen, highlighting the driver's significant salary as a key factor in his potential decision to stay.

As of April 6, 2026, Verstappen is ninth in the standings after a challenging start to the season under new power unit rules. He has expressed dissatisfaction with the 2026 cars, calling them 'anti-racing' due to the heavy reliance on battery deployment.

Irvine shares Verstappen's critique of the regulations, arguing that an overemphasis on eco-friendliness makes the cars dangerous. He believes Formula 1 should not prioritize environmental concerns at the expense of racing performance.

Echoing concerns about Verstappen's public statements, commentator Martin Brundle suggested the driver might be bored. Juan Pablo Montoya advised Verstappen to leave if unhappy or to "shut up and deal with it," emphasizing that no driver is bigger than the sport.

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