Sky Sports F1 pundit Martin Brundle has delivered a blunt message to reigning world champion Max Verstappen, suggesting the Red Bull driver should either leave the sport or stop publicly criticizing it.
Brundle's comments came in response to Verstappen's recent critiques of Formula 1's direction, including the sport's expanding calendar and regulatory changes. 'Leave F1, or stop talking about it,' Brundle said, directly quoting his own advice to the Dutch driver.
The former F1 driver turned analyst didn't mince words about Verstappen's persistent complaints. 'His comments are boring,' Brundle stated, adding that 'no driver is indispensable' in the world of Formula 1.
Verstappen, who secured his third consecutive world title in 2023, has been vocal about his frustrations with aspects of modern F1. These include the increasing number of races, sprint race formats, and what he perceives as excessive regulation.
The exchange comes at a time when F1 is balancing traditional elements with innovations aimed at attracting new fans. Verstappen represents the old guard preferring pure racing, while the sport pursues entertainment-focused changes.
Neither Verstappen nor Red Bull Racing have responded to Brundle's comments as of publication.