Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion, has expressed conflicting feelings about his possible retirement from Formula 1. Stating that he does not wish to leave the competition, he has also hinted that he enjoys his endurance racing projects more.
The Red Bull driver has severely criticized the new regulations of Formula 1 that will come into effect in 2026, which will increase dependency on electric energy, a situation he considers “anti-racing” and has compared to “a Formula E with steroids.”.
Verstappen has suggested that these changes may influence his decision to leave F1 at the end of his contract, which expires in 2028. Beyond F1, the driver enjoys other competitions, such as the 24-hour Nürburgring race, in which he will participate in May.
“I don’t want to leave,” Verstappen assured before the Chinese Grand Prix. “I wish I had more time and had more fun, but I am also doing other things that I really enjoy.”
The Dutch driver highlights that he enjoys endurance projects, stating that the atmosphere in these competitions is different and more fun. “I can be more myself,” he added. Additionally, he mentioned the influence of his father, who won the LMP2 title of the Le Mans Series in 2008.
In his statements, Verstappen made it clear that he does not see himself competing in F1 until he is 40 years old and that it is the right time to explore new opportunities in the world of motorsport.
