I used to think that same thing, too, but: No, there MUST be an expiration date.
If the private keys holding the “rose.crypto” NFT is lost, then that name will be lost forever. (No other domain would smell as sweet.) If Blockchain Domains are lost over a factor of time, …then the “liquidity pool” of NFTs would decrease, and this would harm all users (current & future); and damage the quality of the network effect.
The reoccurring fees helps all ENS names, by helping the protocol, …by having a mechanism to reintroduce “lost” NFTs, (back into the “liquidity pool” of ENS names).
NOTE: I think the RISK is: IF , the seven ENS Keyholders increase registration costs, “at all”, …or change the rules of registration, requirements, or ownership.
Crypto is not about Fast or Cheap,
…It is about immutability & community.
The fast & cheap are great, but Immutability & Community are Primary Keys.