"I would say he is likely to stay longer than me”: F1 boss not worried about Max Verstappen leaving the sport earlier

Reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen has expressed his dislike for the new formats being experimented in the sport. The two-time world champion had even threatened to quit Formula 1 if the ongoing trend continues.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali is not worried about Max Verstappen leaving the sport as he discussed the issue with the Dutchman in Miami. Domenicali reckons that Verstappen will stay in the sport longer than himself.

Speaking to Daily Mail, Domenicali said:

"I discussed the issues with Max before the last race in Miami. He said he loved the sport and what he was doing. He is world champion and is fighting for a third title. He was born in a car. I would say he is likely to stay longer than me. It’s not a problem."

The newly introduced sprint weekend format was first implemented in Baku, which included only one practice session and two qualifying sessions. A new qualifying format was scheduled for the Imola GP, which got canceled due to inclement weather.

Max Verstappen is not a fan of these formats as he prefers the traditional weekend schedule. Verstappen stated these modified formats change the DNA of the sport.

Verstappen will remain in the sport for the next five years as his current contract with Red Bull extends till the end of 2028.

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F1 boss wants Lewis Hamilton to stay in the sport for many years to come

Lewis Hamilton and Stefano Domenicali

After assuring Max Verstappen's continued stay in F1, Stefano Domenicali wants seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton to stay in the sport. Domenicali spoke in light of Hamilton's contract extension saga with Mercedes, who have not been able to reach an agreement.

He said about the 38-year-old Mercedes driver (via Daily Mail):

"I'd like him to stay in the sport 100 per cent, 100% – 1,000%! He loves our sport. He has been in it since he was a child. Now his role in F1 is getting bigger than an F1 world champion, given the way he gets involved in a lot of things outside the sport and takes an active role in society. He takes us towards new dimensions."

He added:

"But his love is Formula 1 and, of course, he wants to achieve his dream of being the only driver to have won an eighth title. Toto [Wolff] is totally focused on making Mercedes improve. He told me he made adjustments within the team to be sure that there is the right intensity to gain performance as soon as possible. I am sure this will happen very, very soon."

Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes are expected to reach an agreement sooner than later.