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Max Verstappen reveals shocking truth about ground effect cars: my back is breaking!

David Castro by David Castro
December 14, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 2 mins read
0
Max Verstappen reveals shocking truth about ground effect cars: my back is breaking!

LUSAIL CITY, QATAR - NOVEMBER 30: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB21 in the Pitlane during the F1 Grand Prix of Qatar at Lusail International Circuit on November 30, 2025 in Lusail City, Qatar. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202511300529 // Usage for editorial use only //

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Max Verstappen, the reigning king of Formula 1, has made a stunning revelation about his feelings toward the controversial ground effect cars that have dominated the sport in recent years. As he gears up for the impending challenges of the 2026 season, Verstappen has expressed his relief at bidding farewell to the era characterized by these high-tech machines that, while bringing him monumental success, have also taken a toll on his physical well-being.

The Dutch superstar, who has clinched three of his four world titles driving these ground effect vehicles, alongside an astounding 51 victories and 35 pole positions, is now ready for a fresh start. He is unequivocal in his assessment: “I will not miss these cars.” This declaration comes as a shock considering his remarkable achievements, yet Verstappen’s honesty sheds light on the underlying issues with these racing beasts.

Verstappen points out that the very objectives set forth by the Formula 1 regulatory mastermind, Ross Brawn, in 2022 have ultimately failed to deliver. The promise of allowing drivers to closely follow rivals in dirty air has been deemed unrealistic, as the issues with these cars have become increasingly apparent. While they may have shown some promise initially, Verstappen believes they fell short of expectations, particularly as vehicle development progressed.

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Reflecting on the driving experience, Verstappen candidly states, “At first, following others was nice, but over time it became less enjoyable.” Although he acknowledges that these newer models offer better handling in certain scenarios, he contrasts them sharply with the older 2015-2016 cars, noting the extreme understeer and oversteer that plagued those earlier models. “The aerodynamic load is less, and the slipstream isn’t what it used to be; it’s not enough to overtake,” he adds, underscoring his dissatisfaction with the current state of racing.

The physical toll has also been significant. “My back is falling apart, and my feet always hurt,” he reveals. It’s a stark reminder that the pursuit of speed and excellence in Formula 1 comes with a price. Despite his success, the discomfort he feels is a testament to the grueling demands placed on drivers today. He even draws a comparison to motocross, suggesting that while it’s a tough sport, it doesn’t come with the same complaints that he has with the current F1 machinery.

As Formula 1 looks to the future, Verstappen’s candid critique serves as a wake-up call. With the 2026 season on the horizon, it’s clear that changes are necessary—not just for the spectacle of racing, but for the well-being of the athletes who risk their lives on the track. The era of ground effect cars may be coming to an end, and Verstappen is more than ready to embrace the next chapter in his illustrious career, leaving behind the discomfort and challenges that have come with this high-speed evolution. Will the sport respond to his call for change? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: Max Verstappen is not just a champion; he’s a voice for a brighter, more comfortable future in Formula 1.

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