The retirement canceled a highly anticipated battle between Verstappen and Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli, who started from pole position and went on to secure the victory.
Windsor lamented the lost spectacle on the streets of Monte Carlo.
"In this case, Formula 1 was robbed of a fight that would have been eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth between Kimi Antonelli in the Mercedes on pole position and Max Verstappen next to him on the front row for Red Bull.
That felt like a deflating balloon. This was an anticlimax of the highest category," said Windsor.
>>> Nelly Korda Wins US Women's Open at Riviera by One Stroke
Qualifying Session Stands Out
Despite the opening-lap drama, Windsor highlighted the qualifying session as the true standout moment of the race weekend.
He praised the performance of both drivers during the Saturday sessions.
"You can remember this weekend because of the drama for Max, who stalled at the start, but in reality this weekend was all about the qualifying session.
That was the first time that Formula 1 was not held back by the 2026 regulations, where we saw a direct duel between two great drivers on a demanding track.
That will stick with me from this weekend," said Windsor.
Windsor further commended Antonelli for his composure and technical execution throughout the weekend.
The young driver has drawn frequent comparisons to Verstappen due to his development program and driving style.
"Of course we will also remember how Kimi Antonelli took the victory. I also suspect this is not the last time he wins this race.
This kid is just getting better and better and better. He is fast on slow and fast tracks.
He works great with Bono, makes decisions himself, and fits great with the team," said Windsor.
Antonelli previously spent the 2025 season studying Verstappen's driving lines during free practice sessions to accelerate his learning curve.
Windsor concluded that this preparation has made the Italian rookie exceptionally composed under pressure.
"He reminds me a lot of Max Verstappen. He has the capacity to think about other things.
He never has to react to anything and has everything under control. That's great to watch.
>>> Jameson Taillon Exits Early as Chicago Cubs Fall to San Francisco Giants
He is in perfect harmony with the car," said Windsor.
