Aug.23 (GMM) Stefano Domenicali has hinted that Max Verstappen’s new Red Bull deal through 2030 may not be unrelated to Formula 1’s increasingly serious discussions about bringing forward the next engine regulations.
The F1 CEO told De Telegraaf he was delighted Verstappen had committed long-term. “For me personally, this is fantastic news, I’m very happy about it.”
“Max is a living legend. I think this is the right decision. Max is the best driver in the world, and this is the best platform in motorsport.”
“Laurent Mekies and he called me on Tuesday from England. For me, it was a wonderful sign of respect.”
Domenicali says he has also been speaking privately with Verstappen about the direction of the sport.
“I listen to the opinion of someone like Max,” the Italian insisted. “I’d be crazy if I didn’t.”
“I always listen to the drivers, those are our crown jewels. I’ve always said that and I will always do that.”
The more interesting detail concerns the next engine formula.
Current plans point towards a new cycle in 2031, but Domenicali now admits that 2030 is being seriously discussed instead.
“I think pretty big,” he said when asked about the chances of V8 engines returning sooner rather than later.
“The president of the FIA wants that very much and we support him in that. Of course, everything still needs to be worked out, but I think we are all going in the right direction.”
When it was suggested that Verstappen’s new 2030 contract expiry might therefore be significant, Domenicali did little to kill the theory.
“Stay tuned! Keep an eye on the news,” he told Viaplay.
“Everything looks good.”
Verstappen himself has already said the new engine cycle influenced the length of his deal.
When asked whether this could be his final Formula 1 contract, he said: “That chance is great. But I don’t know.”
“That depends a bit on how things are going in the coming years. A lot can still happen in those years.”
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
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES