Max Verstappen has dismissed rumors about taking a break from Formula 1, reinforcing his commitment to racing within the sport despite ongoing questions about his long-term plans. The Dutch driver addressed these concerns ahead of the British Grand Prix, where talks about his future intensified following reports of a 2026 season offer from Mercedes.
Contract Details and Performance Clauses
Although Verstappen is contracted with Red Bull until the end of 2028, there remains an option for an earlier departure if specific performance targets are not achieved. At Silverstone, while remaining reserved about his future with Red Bull, Verstappen confirmed there are no changes regarding his plans for 2026. His contract situation adds complexity to speculation around his career trajectory.
Interest Beyond Formula 1
Off the track, Verstappen has expressed some frustration with media commitments, which has fueled questions about how long he will continue in F1. His recent involvement in sportscar racing, including testing GT3 cars at Nürburgring Nordschleife and Spa-Francorchamps, signals a desire to explore other motorsport avenues.
Despite these growing interests, Verstappen made it clear that he plans to continue racing full-time in Formula 1.
No, [I will race in] F1 for sure,
he said.
I’ll try in the future [to] combine it with any kind of other racing that is possible [and] what I can prepare for, because I do want to explore a bit out of Formula 1, which I’m already doing with testing but eventually also racing.
—Max Verstappen
When asked directly about taking a sabbatical, Verstappen was unmistakably firm:
No, for sure [I won’t be leaving F1].
—Max Verstappen
Implications for Verstappen’s Racing Career
Verstappen’s confirmation that he will not pause his Formula 1 career leaves the door open for him to further combine F1 with selective racing outside the championship. His attachment to Red Bull remains, but the contract clause and interest from competitors like Mercedes continue to fuel discussions about his future. Fans and analysts will be watching closely as Verstappen balances his F1 commitments with growing ventures beyond the traditional Grand Prix calendar.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What gender is Max Verstappen’s baby?
A. Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet have shared news about the birth of their first child as the Miami Grand Prix approaches. They happily announced that they now have a baby girl.