May 23 (GMM) Max Verstappen has angrily hit back at Juan Pablo Montoya amid a wild weekend of Formula 1 silly season speculation in Montreal.
Montoya, an increasingly outspoken pundit, recently suggested Verstappen should be banned for repeatedly criticising Formula 1’s controversial 2026 regulations.
But Verstappen told De Telegraaf he has no patience for the former Williams and McLaren driver.
“I don’t know what his problem is,” Verstappen said. “I also have very little patience with someone like that who talks so much nonsense.”
“I just don’t understand why types like that get paid by Formula One Management.
“Surely you don’t want someone like that in the paddock who spouts so much rubbish.”
Verstappen accused Montoya of simply trying to remain relevant.
“I think it’s a case of ‘I say something different from everyone else, so I remain relevant,'” he said.
“It doesn’t bother me that much. It’s his problem.”
The Dutchman also made clear he quickly cuts people off once trust disappears.
“When I’m done with someone, I’m really done with them,” Verstappen explained. “If someone is just sitting there babbling nonsense and has negative motives, I’m done with them quickly.”
Although Verstappen previously hinted he could walk away from Formula 1 if the regulations continued heading in the wrong direction, the recent decision to move back toward more combustion-engine power from 2027 appears to have eased some concerns.
“That it will be better next year helps me come to terms with it a bit more now,” he admitted.
Still, Verstappen insisted he never seriously considered taking a temporary break. “No, not a sabbatical,” he said.
“I’m not that kind of person. If I stop, I stop completely.”
For now, Verstappen says he remains relaxed about his future.
“Ideally, I’d like to stay associated with Red Bull for the rest of my life,” he said.
“But making that decision doesn’t have to happen today or tomorrow.”
The comments came at around the same time as Verstappen’s father Jos was spotted in an unusually public discussion with Toto Wolff outside the Mercedes paddock area in Montreal.
The timing – immediately before Kimi Antonelli’s media session – triggered immediate speculation throughout the paddock.
However, Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies played down suggestions of mind games or negotiations. “It’s completely natural that they can have a conversation with Toto,” the Frenchman said.
“Max was racing in a Mercedes last week, a GT3.”
Mekies also dismissed suggestions Verstappen could follow former race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase to McLaren.
“Max is telling us he’s happy at Red Bull,” he insisted.
“He is at the heart of the project.”
Meanwhile, another bizarre paddock incident briefly reignited rumours surrounding former Red Bull sporting director and recently-departed Audi chief Jonathan Wheatley.
Canadian GP organisers accidentally placed Wheatley’s name on Aston Martin parking signage at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve – despite Wheatley not even attending the event.
“We are aware of the printing error that occurred yesterday,” organisers said. “The problem has been resolved immediately.”
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES