Jos Verstappen supports the new technical guidelines from the FIA. Starting from the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix, the organization will enforce stricter controls on flexible components, aiming to curb the use of the controversial ‘flexi-wings’ – McLaren has been suspected of employing such tactics in recent months. “An ideal scenario,” says Verstappen senior, predicting that a level playing field will be established in Barcelona for the first time.
McLaren has been accused multiple times of using a flexible front wing. Several onboards of the MCL39 – highlighting the mobility of the carbon – went viral. However, the team has so far passed all FIA inspections. They also remain notably calm about the impending changes in the regulations, repeatedly stating that these will not affect their performance.
Yet, Jos Verstappen believes that the balance of power in Barcelona could be different. “For the fans and for Formula 1, this is an ideal scenario,” he told De Telegraaf. “They want an exciting season and not someone who wins twenty races, making it monotonous. But I especially value a level playing field. Like with the flexible front wings, which will only be banned next week in Spain. Certain teams have profited from this for too long. I don’t think that’s fair.”
‘Max Makes the Difference’
Jos Verstappen was rarely spotted in the paddock in recent months. It was only in Monaco that the former Formula 1 driver made an appearance. Thus, he missed the glorious victory of his son, Max Verstappen, in Emilia-Romagna – the Dutchman secured the win after a brilliant overtaking maneuver on Oscar Piastri. “Max makes the difference,” he noted. “Such a move makes me jump for joy, even in disbelief. I noticed it in the reactions too,” a proud Jos Verstappen added. “Strangers came up to me to talk about it. Everyone is amazed at what he does. But that’s Max. He showed these kinds of moves in karting.”
That the Dutch champion is still one of the best drivers was again proven at the restart in Imola, according to his father. “How fierce and sharp he is then, amazing. You see that drive again. And it’s still there, one hundred percent. Red Bull must be very happy to have him on board,” concluded Jos Verstappen. “And I think they realize that. He’s just a very nice young man, but don’t make him angry. He can get very mean. As long as he feels that his team is doing everything to win. And at the moment, I think he has that feeling.”
