David Coulthard on why Miami could be key to Max Verstappen’s F1 future decisions

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Max Verstappen has hinted that his time in Formula 1 may not last much longer, but David Coulthard believes the FIA’s latest technical rule changes could give the Dutchman some breathing room.

After months of debate over F1’s new rules for 2026, the FIA revealed on Monday that there would be some tweaks ahead of the next race at Miami International Autodrome.

Fans were unhappy with one particular aspect of the changes, but many inside the paddock have welcomed them. Williams boss James Vowles called them a “sensible” move by the governing body.

It remains to be seen how much difference these adjustments will make once racing gets underway. Verstappen has been among the loudest critics of this new direction, and his future in F1 has come under question because of it.

David Coulthard explains why the upcoming races will be critical for Max Verstappen’s F1 future

On the latest episode of the Up to Speed podcast, the crew broke down how recent technical regulation changes from the FIA could play into Verstappen’s ongoing issues with the 2026 rules. David Coulthard chimed in, explaining what it might mean for Max’s next steps.

“One person who will be the ultimate gauge as to whether it’s enough will be Max Verstappen,” Coulthard said on Up to Speed. “Because he, he doesn’t pander to anyone.”

Coulthard went on to point out that Formula 1 would rather Verstappen dial back his public criticism and that his opinion after Miami could carry weight.

The former Williams and McLaren driver went on to suggest that Verstappen may see a path forward if he notices improvement over the coming races.

He added: “Of course, every driver wants to be in the best car because that gives you the best chance of winning, but I do think that Max is mature enough in his career, with his four titles, to go, actually, this now feels like my Formula 1.