Max Verstappen has made a shocking statement ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, following revelations that “four or five” teams had to make adjustments to their cars to comply with the FIA’s latest rear wing regulations. The reigning world champion expressed his frustration over the tightening of the rules, hinting at a potential protest or even a dramatic exit from the race.

Speaking to reporters, Verstappen did not hold back:

“This is getting ridiculous. We keep changing the rules mid-season, and it feels like they are trying to slow us down rather than ensure fair racing. If this continues, maybe we should start questioning whether it’s worth racing under these conditions.”

FIA’s Strict New Directive Sparks Backlash

The controversy erupted after Nikolas Tombazis, FIA’s director of single-seaters, confirmed that nearly half the grid had to make changes to their rear wings to comply with the stricter FIA technical directive introduced in China.

Under the new rules, the allowed rear wing flex was reduced from 2mm to 0.5mm, with an additional 0.25mm tolerance granted at the Chinese GP. However, that tolerance will be completely removed in Japan, putting teams under even more scrutiny.

While some teams, including Red Bull and McLaren, claimed they did not need to adjust their rear wings, the FIA hinted that not all teams were being completely transparent about their modifications.

Formula 1 Arrives in Suzuka Amid Growing Tension

Formula 1 heads to Suzuka for round three of the season, with the Japanese Grand Prix taking place from April 4-6.

A major shake-up at Red Bull sees Yuki Tsunoda making his home race debut for the team, replacing Liam Lawson, who was dropped after just two grands prix. Lawson returns to Racing Bulls in a direct swap with Tsunoda.

Meanwhile, McLaren have dominated the season so far, with two wins from two races. Oscar Piastri took victory in China after Lando Norris won the season opener in Australia. Norris currently leads the drivers’ championship, sitting eight points ahead of Verstappen.

The last race weekend saw Lewis Hamilton win the sprint race, but both he and Charles Leclerc were disqualified from the main grand prix, along with Alpine’s Pierre Gasly, in a controversial ruling.

The Japanese Grand Prix race starts at 06:00 BST on Sunday.

Verstappen’s Fury – A Stand Against FIA?

Verstappen, who has been vocal about FIA’s ever-changing technical regulations, suggested that the governing body’s inconsistency could impact the spirit of competition:

“We’re supposed to be focusing on racing, not constantly dealing with new restrictions that suddenly appear out of nowhere. It’s frustrating for the team and for the sport as a whole.”

When asked if he would consider boycotting the Japanese Grand Prix, Verstappen left the door open for speculation:

“Let’s see what happens. I’ll have discussions with my team, and we’ll decide what’s best. But I won’t just stay silent if I feel this isn’t fair.”

What Happens Next?

With the FIA set to enforce even stricter tests in Suzuka, teams will have to comply without the additional tolerance they were given in China. If Verstappen’s frustration turns into actual action, it could create an unprecedented standoff between the reigning champion and F1’s governing body.

Will Verstappen walk away from the Japanese GP, or is he simply sending a warning to the FIA? All eyes will be on Suzuka as the drama unfolds.