Max Verstappen, who dominated Formula 1 from 2021 to 2024, is facing a new reality. After finishing second in 2025 and struggling outside the top five in 2026, the Red Bull driver is contemplating retirement at age 28.
Following an eighth-place finish at the Japanese Grand Prix, Verstappen told the BBC he is questioning his commitment. "You just think about is it worth it? Or do I enjoy being more at home with my family?" he said. He suggested 2026 could be his final season, stating, "At the moment that’s not really the case... once I sit in the car it’s not the most enjoyable unfortunately."
The three-time world champion cited the difficulty of adapting to new regulations and an unsatisfying racing style. "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," Verstappen explained. "It’s really anti-driving."
The F1 schedule now has a break after races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were canceled due to military operations in Iran. The series resumes in Miami on May 3.