Multi-time F1 world champion Max Verstappen has admitted that he is considering retirement from the sport after a difficult start to the 2026 campaign. Verstappen, who has been critical of the new regulations in F1, finished 8th in the race and was knocked out in Q2 during qualification.
Verstappen has been considering his long-term future in the sport. This time he was directly commenting on a question on whether he would walk away from the sport with two years still remaining on his Red Bull contract.
“Privately I’m very happy. You also wait for 24 races. This time it’s 22. But normally 24. And then you just think about is it worth it? Or do I enjoy being more at home with my family? Seeing my friends more when you’re not enjoying your sport?”
The quotes follow a report in Dutch media saying that Verstappen will quit the sport. Verstappen said that his frustration has nothing to do with Red Bull’s form, but it was due to the cars he called anti-racing.
“I can easily accept to be in P7 or P8 where I am,” he said. “Because I also know that you can’t be dominating or be first or second or whatever, fighting for a podium every time. I’m very realistic in that and I’ve been there before. I’ve not only been winning in F1.
“But at the same time, when you are in P7 or P8, and you are not enjoying the whole formula behind it, it doesn’t feel natural to a racing driver.”
“Of course I try to adapt to it, but it’s not nice the way you have to race. It’s really anti-driving. Then at one point, yeah, it’s just not what I want to do.”
‘NOT ABOUT THE MONEY’
Verstappen said that, at the end of the day, it isn’t about the money, but rather about his passion for the sport.
“And of course you can look at it and make a lot of money. Great. But at the end of the day it’s not about money any more because this has always been my passion,” said Verstappen.
The next month is considered to be crucial for Verstappen’s future as F1 breaks for a mini-break, with the next race happening in Miami.
