Ralf Schumacher says Max Verstappen should deliver criticism behind closed doors

Verstappen likened the new F1 cars to Formula E, while other F1 drivers shared his view while delivering their statements in a more diplomatic way.

Drivers like George Russell and Lando Norris opposed the Dutchman, while the latter seemed to be pulling the handbrake with more recent comments.

Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher doesn't seem to be agreeing with early criticism of the new formula in 2026.

Speaking to the Backstage Boxengasse podcast, Schumacher said: "So close to the start of a season, it’s usually almost impossible to change the regulations.

"The only exception would be if there were an issue affecting everyone—something that can clearly be proven to be a problem or an oversight.

"In that case, all teams would have to agree, and only then could something potentially be changed. There’s also the time factor. If you intervene at this stage, it’s not something that can be implemented overnight.

"Take the example of the engines at Mercedes—issues like that simply can’t be fixed from one day to the next," he added, referring to Mercedes' engine compression saga, which is under vote with a potential rule change becoming effective in August.

Schumacher went on, claiming everyone makes a statement based on a hidden agenda without looking at the interest of the sport as a whole.

He explained: "I think, as always, there’s also a bit of scaremongering involved. Some raise concerns because they might see an advantage in doing so or because they’re struggling themselves. So it makes sense to wait for the first race. In Formula 1, it has often happened that everyone complained at the beginning of a regulatory change.

"One thing should never be forgotten: where everyone in the sport comes from and what Formula 1 has done for all involved—including myself.

"The intention should always be not to harm the sport as a whole," the German insisted. "Having an opinion is fine, but it would be better to stay open-minded, wait for the first races, and avoid creating panic or passing judgment too quickly.

"That’s not ideal. Greater unity would help, and that’s something drivers would also expect from the other side. So, in my view, it’s better not to overwork or overreact to things at this stage.

"Formula 1 remains the foundation on which many careers were built. Personally, I owe a great deal to Bernie Ecclestone, and in retrospect, many others do as well, considering what he created.

"That’s why cooperation is essential, and perhaps some things could be expressed differently," the 50-year-old maintained.

Mentioning former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone is interesting, as it would be nice to see how the Briton feels about how the sport he has built has become, but that is the topic now.

Addressing Verstappen's comments in particular, Schumacher went on: "I understand Max as well, but it’s important to keep the bigger picture in mind. Formula 1 as a whole has to function.

"And if criticism is necessary, it may be better to address it behind closed doors. It should also not be forgotten that this regulation change was not simply Formula 1’s own preference; it was a key prerequisite for Volkswagen, and specifically Audi, to enter the sport.

"So there has to be a balance: does a driver find the car especially enjoyable to drive, or is it more important to have a major global brand involved in Formula 1? From that perspective, the decision was probably the right one.

"Now it’s a matter of pushing through. The engineers are working hard on it, and in the end I’m quite sure a good solution to the problem will be found," Schumacher, the brother of seven-time F1 Champion Michael, concluded.

Schumacher's statement poses a really valid question: was it worth it for F1 to bend over that much to make sure Audi joins?

How can we be sure how long Audi hangs around? Car manufacturers are known to run away at the first hurdle. BMW was a clear example back in 2009 as well as Honda.

The latter don't seem to be able to make up their minds whether they want to stay in F1 or leave... They came back in 2015 and then decided to leave at the end of 2021 at the height of their success when Verstappen delivered their first Title since their return.

They changed their mind again for 2026, excited about the new power unit regulations, but can't seem to build a decent power unit based on what we saw from Aston Martin's preseason tests.

While we have to credit manufacturers who have shown commitment to F1, we cannot help but question whether entertaining them too much is the smart thing to do for the future of the sport.