FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem claimed that all of Max Verstappen's threats about leaving Formula 1 because of the 2026 regulations are empty ones.

Verstappen's stance has been clear regarding the ridiculous 2026 F1 rules, which he rightfully labeled as "anti-racing" and "Formula E on steroids", an opinion shared by his fellow drivers, although not in the same bluntness. Only Kimi Antonelli and George Russell do not share that opinion, although the latter may soon change his mind if he keeps getting hammered by his younger teammate.

Ben Sulayem, who recently announced the great news that V8 engines will power F1 cars from 2030/2031, gave his view on the Dutchman's statements regarding the new cars, as he also hinted at his exit from the sport since he is not enjoying it anymore.

The Emirati said of Verstappen over the Miami Grand Prix weekend: “If he goes, we will miss him, but the sport will go ahead.

“So many stars come and go—and teams. But Formula 1 will always stay. FIA will always stay," he insisted.

Ben Sulayem revealed that he has had chats with Verstappen, who shared “what he feels", and went on claiming that he feels the Red Bull driver won't leave.

“But what he says, is it what he wants to do? I don’t—I really don’t think so," he maintained.

Ben Sulayem also weighed in on recent reports regarding former Red Bull Racing boss Christian Horner and his return to F1.

Horner has been linked with many teams since his exit from Red Bull Racing, namely Ferrari, Aston Martin, and more recently Alpine.

There were also rumors that Liberty Media, Formula 1's owner, who have recently bought MotoGP, may be considering Horner as their next CEO.

Discussing Horner's future, Ben Sulayem said: “I talk to him regularly. And I feel he will be back.” (Source: Associated Press)