Max Verstappen drops strongest hint yet over shock F1 exit plans
Max Verstappen has delivered his clearest indication yet that his Formula 1 future may not stretch far beyond the next few seasons, as speculation over a potential early exit from the sport continues to intensify.
The reigning world champion is preparing for his highly anticipated debut at the Nürburgring 24 Hours this weekend, a move that has only fuelled growing belief that the Dutch superstar could eventually step away from Formula 1 to pursue endurance racing full-time.
Despite being contracted to Oracle Red Bull Racing until 2028, Verstappen has repeatedly insisted he has no intention of racing into his 40s like Fernando Alonso or Lewis Hamilton.
The four-time world champion has also emerged as one of the fiercest critics of Formula 1’s incoming regulations, previously branding the new era “anti-racing” and comparing aspects of it to “Mario Kart.”
Speaking after Formula 1’s enforced break following the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, Verstappen admitted he is still undecided about his long-term future in the sport.
“Nothing new, to be honest, on that side,” Verstappen said when asked if he had reflected on his future during the break.
“In those weeks, I was busy with other things.
“But I still have time, and I’m taking my time.”
Those comments have once again intensified speculation surrounding Verstappen’s future, particularly with his growing involvement outside Formula 1 through his expanding Verstappen Racing programme.
The Dutchman will compete at the Nürburgring in a Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo alongside GT3 stars Jules Gounon, Dani Juncadella and Lucas Auer in collaboration with Winward Racing.
Verstappen also suggested that recent adjustments made by Formula 1 and the FIA to improve the controversial 2026 regulations were only a small step in the right direction.
“The positive thing about it, we had some nice meetings with Formula 1 and the FIA,” Verstappen explained.
“I think everyone has tried their best to at least do something. But of course, it won’t change the world.”
In another telling remark, Verstappen hinted he may not even be around long enough to see the long-term impact of those changes.
“Hopefully for the future, even in a few years’ time, or maybe I’m not here anymore,” he added.
That statement is likely to send fresh shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock, with fears growing that one of the sport’s biggest stars could walk away from the grid while still at the peak of his powers.