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Max Verstappen took the torch from Lewis Hamilton and became one of the most unstoppable Formula 1 drivers in the sport from 2021 to 2024.
The 2025 and 2026 seasons have been a struggle for the Red Bull racer. He finished second to McLaren’s Lando Norris in the drivers’ standings last season, ending his streak of world championships, and is yet to finish in the top five this year.
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Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands steers his car during the Japanese Formula One Grand Prix at Suzuka in central Japan, Sunday, March 29, 2026. (AP Photo/Hiro Komae)
After finishing eighth in the Japanese Grand Prix, Verstappen suggested he was considering retirement at the age of 28.
“Privately I’m very happy,” Verstappen told the BBC. “You also wait for 24 races. This time it’s 22. But usually 24. And then you just think is it worth it? Or do I enjoy being at home more with my family? Seeing my friends more when you’re not enjoying your sport?”
He made it clear that he suggested 2026 could be his final season.
“I want to be here to have fun and have fun and enjoy myself. At the moment, that’s not really the case,” he said. “Of course I enjoy certain aspects. I enjoy working with my team. It’s like another family. But once I’m in the car, unfortunately it’s not the most fun. I try. I keep telling myself every day to try and enjoy it. It’s just very hard.”
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Red Bull driver Max Verstappen, right, of the Netherlands and Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli of Italy talk during the drivers’ parade ahead of the Japanese Formula One Grand Prix in Suzuka, central Japan, Sunday, March 29, 2026. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)
Part of the struggle for Verstappen has been trying to get used to the regulation changes.
“I can easily accept being in P7 or P8 where I am,” he said. “Because I also know that you can’t dominate or be first or second or whatever, fight for a podium every time. I’m very realistic about it and I’ve been there before. I’ve not only won in F1.
“But at the same time, when you’re in P7 or P8 and you’re not enjoying the whole formula behind it, it doesn’t feel natural for a racing driver,” he continued. “Obviously I’m trying to adapt to it, but it’s not nice the way you have to race. It’s really anti-driving. So at some point, yeah, it’s just not what I want to do.”
Perhaps a break in the schedule will help clear Verstappen’s head.
Formula 1 will have a few weeks off as two races set for April in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia were canceled due to military operations in Iran.
Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands exits during the qualifying session for the Japanese Formula One Grand Prix at the Suzuka Circuit in Suzuka, Japan, Saturday, March 28, 2026. (Franck Robichon/Pool Photo via AP)
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The next race is set for May 3 in Miami.
