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Max Verstappen has revealed he is seriously contemplating retirement from Formula 1 at the end of the 2026 season, expressing frustration and a lack of enjoyment following a disappointing eighth-place finish at the Japanese Grand Prix.
The four-time world champion, who has been openly critical of the sport’s recent regulatory changes, shared his thoughts with the BBC after another challenging race weekend. Verstappen suggested he might leave the sport two years before his contract with Red Bull is set to expire.
When asked if he planned to step away from F1 at the end of this year, Verstappen replied, “That’s what I’m saying. I’m thinking about everything inside this paddock.”
He reflected on the toll of the long racing calendar, noting, “Normally 24 races… 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?”
These comments come amid reports from Dutch media indicating crucial decisions lie ahead during the current mid-season break, extended due to canceled races in the Middle East.
Verstappen’s struggles were evident in Japan, where he was knocked out in Q2 qualifying and finished well outside the podium positions. Despite the poor results, he clarified that his dissatisfaction is not related to Red Bull’s performance but rather the nature of the current cars, which he has previously described as “anti-racing” and compared to a Mario Kart experience.
“I can accept being P7 or P8,” Verstappen said. “I’ve been realistic about not always being on the podium.
But when you’re not enjoying the way you have to race, it doesn’t feel natural for a racing driver. It’s really anti-driving.
At some point, that’s just not what I want to do.”
He emphasized that his passion for racing outweighs financial considerations, stating, “Of course, you can make a lot of money, great. But at the end of the day, it’s not about money anymore. This has always been my passion.”
The Dutch driver, who turns 29 this September and ranks third on the all-time F1 winners list with 71 victories, has hinted before that enjoyment is key to his continuation in the sport. After his qualifying exit in Japan, he described himself as “beyond frustrated” and uncertain about the future.
Looking ahead, Verstappen plans to diversify his racing pursuits, with confirmed entries in endurance events such as the Nurburgring 24 Hours and ambitions for Le Mans. He’s also passionate about growing his involvement in GT3 racing, both as a driver and team owner.
“As a kid, I never imagined the achievements or the money,” he reflected. “I want to be here to have fun and enjoy myself.
Right now, that’s not really the case… I enjoy working with my team, but once I’m in the car, it’s not the most enjoyable.”
Despite the uncertainty, Verstappen remains resolute. “I’m trying every day to enjoy it, but it’s very hard.
I have plenty of other projects I’m passionate about, and I’ll continue to have fun in many other areas of my life. It’s a bit sad we’re even having this conversation, but it is what it is.
No need to feel sorry for me-I’ll be fine.”