Verstappen threatens to leave F1 in 2026 if the new cars are not fun

Max Verstappen’s future in Formula 1 could depend on the excitement generated by the new cars. The Dutch driver, winner of four consecutive titles, has stated that his continuity in the competition will be linked to the fun the cars provide him from 2026, the year in which new regulations will be implemented. Verstappen, who debuted in F1 in 2015, has made it clear that he is not pursuing the record of seven titles. His focus is on enjoying the experience of driving the single-seaters. Verstappen’s contract extends until 2028. However, the driver has stated that his permanence in F1 will depend on what the cars are like with the new rules. “My contract runs until 2028, but [my future] will depend on the new rules in 2026, and if they are nice and fun”

The new regulations, which will come into effect in 2026, aim for cars to be 50% electric and 50% powered by sustainable fuels. This is expected to make energy management a key factor and disrupt the established order. Verstappen, who became a father this year, has shown interest in other motorsport disciplines. He even achieved a victory in a sports car race at the Nordschleife circuit in Nürburgring. The driver has stated that, should he leave F1 before his contract ends, he has other passions and activities that would keep him busy. Among them, other racing categories, spending more time with his family, and living at his own pace.

“I have many other passions; other career categories, I want to spend more time with family and live according to my own schedule. And in my mind I know that if I close the chapter, it’s closed. I don’t see myself stopping and coming back. Once I stop, I really stop”

Max Verstappen