Verstappen Reveals Key to His F1 Future: Fun and New Regulations
Formula 1 star driver Max Verstappen has stated that his long-term stay in the premier category will largely depend on how exciting the next generation of single-seaters turn out to be. The current world champion, with an enviable track record, has made it clear that he is not obsessively pursuing the record of seven titles.
Verstappen, who debuted in F1 in 2015 and has won four consecutive titles since 2021, is in a privileged position to aim for a fifth championship this year. If he achieves it, he would be only two titles away from the record shared by Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton.
My contract extends until 2028, but [my future] will depend on the new regulations in 2026 and if they are nice and fun.
Max Verstappen
However, the Dutch driver has emphasized that his continuity in F1 will be conditioned on the 2026 regulatory changes maintaining the excitement and enjoyment in driving the vehicles. “If they are not fun, I really don’t see myself here,” Verstappen stated in an interview.
Max Verstappen podría dejar la Fórmula 1 después de que expire su contrato en 2028.
Andrew Ferraro/LAT ImagesVerstappen also made it clear that he doesn’t need to reach a specific number of championships before considering his retirement. “Winning seven titles is not on my mind. I know there are three more years left after this one, so it could be possible, but it’s not something I need to do before leaving the sport. I can easily leave the sport tomorrow,” he stated.
Formula 1 will implement new regulations next year, with the aim of having cars run 50% on electricity and 50% on sustainable fuels. These regulations are expected to make energy management a crucial aspect of racing and could alter the established order, with Red Bull switching from Honda power to its own engine, built in collaboration with Ford.
Verstappen, who became a father this year, has shown interest in other motorsport disciplines outside of F1, including a victory in a sports car race at the Nordschleife circuit in Nurburgring.
The Dutch driver added that he would have many other passions and activities to dedicate himself to if he decided to leave F1 before his contract ended. “I have many other passions: other racing categories, I want to spend more time with my family and live according to my own schedule,” Verstappen concluded.
