Max Verstappen shares 'great' F1, FIA trait key to crucial talks

Max Verstappen has described the "open-mindedness" of both F1 and the FIA as "great" during key talks held earlier this year.

The four-time champion was one of the fiercest critics of F1's new power unit regulations and hinted that he could be prepared to walk away unless changes were made.

Ahead of the Miami GP, changes were brought in to reduce super-clipping and lift and coast, with further talks taking place to find a solution to move away from the 50-50 power output split between the ICE and batteries.

In 2027, the ratio will change more towards the ICE via an increase in fuel flow, before reaching 60:40 in 2028. 

Reflecting on the process, Verstappen felt that both FOM and the FIA being "open-minded" was key to the breakthrough in discussions with drivers.

"I think that it grows a bit, I mean, the more you achieve in the sport, I'm sure you have maybe a bit more of a voice," Verstappen told media, including RacingNews365. 

"But I'm very happy. I mean, at the beginning of the year, there were a few meetings with FOM, and then, of course, with other drivers with the FIA as well, and it's just great that they're open-minded and they listen to the drivers.

"Because I think we speak, at least most of us speak, in the interest of the sport, and we just want to make it a better product. 

"That's why you come up with the recommendations, and what you're trying to do is definitely the right thing."