Max Verstappen has revealed, for the first time, his willingness to continue his Formula 1 career into his mid- to late 30s, marking a notable shift in his previous stance. Since entering the sport as a teenager in 2015 with Toro Rosso and quickly moving to Red Bull in 2016, Verstappen has been regarded as one of the most talented drivers on the grid.
Earlier in his career, including during his first championship contention in 2021, Verstappen made it clear that he did not intend to race into his late 30s. His contract extension with Red Bull through 2028 was described at the time as his final agreement in Formula 1. Despite exploring other racing disciplines in his off weekends, he maintained that he was not planning a long-term continuation in the sport.
Changing perspective on career longevity tied to enjoyment and team environment
Recently, Verstappen indicated a change of heart, stating that he could keep racing as long as he remains happy and motivated. Speaking to The Athletic, he expressed that financial incentives are not his primary driver but rather the desire to compete and win.
“People sometimes hang around maybe to create more money, but at the end of the day, that doesn’t come first. It’s important you’re here because of the hunger to win. Some people come here to just get the best out of their car because some don’t have a winning car.” — Max Verstappen, F1 Driver
He also explained that working with a team he enjoys is a key factor in his decision to continue racing, while the exact age at which he might retire remains uncertain.
“But that’s why I think: as long as I can do that, and I’m working with the people that I enjoy working with, then, yeah, we’ll drive. I don’t know when that will stop. Is that 32? Is that 35? 36? I don’t know. It’s impossible to know.” — Max Verstappen, F1 Driver
Reflections on family sacrifices amid demanding race schedule
Verstappen also discussed the difficulties of balancing a rigorous Formula 1 calendar with family life. Now a father, he noted how much he misses ordinary moments with his family due to the constant travel and distance from home.
“I feel like I’m already missing out so much on just being with my family. I spend holidays with them, but I really miss the moments of just casually rocking up for a weekend or just hanging out on the couch, sitting together on a lazy day, or just after a normal work day. We live quite far apart now, (so) these kinds of moments are not possible with my life. I hope one day that it can go back to that.” — Max Verstappen, F1 Driver
Implications and future outlook for Verstappen amid team changes
This interview was conducted around the time of the Austrian Grand Prix and might not reflect the latest developments in Verstappen’s mindset, especially following recent changes at Red Bull, including the departure of Christian Horner. The upcoming Belgian Grand Prix is expected to bring further insight into Verstappen’s plans and the direction of his collaboration with the team.
As Max Verstappen contemplates extending his F1 career, the balance between personal fulfillment, competitiveness, and family life appears to be shaping his decisions. His evolving outlook could impact not only his own journey but also the future dynamics within Red Bull and the wider Formula 1 grid.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Max Verstappen’s baby gender?
A. On May 2, Verstappen, who is 27 years old, shared two pictures of his newborn daughter on Instagram. In the caption, he announced her name as Lily.
Q. What gender is Max Verstappen’s baby?
A. Verstappen and Piquet have shared the news of their baby daughter, Lily. They initially revealed they were expecting her before the 2024 season finale in Abu Dhabi. Lily now joins Penelope, Piquet’s older daughter.
Q. Is Penelope not Max Verstappen’s daughter?
A. His partner, Kelly Piquet, is the daughter of former racing champion Nelson Piquet. She has a daughter named Penelope from her past relationship with former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat. Verstappen has grown close to Penelope and recently mentioned this bond when questioned if fatherhood could affect his racing performance.
Q. What is the gender of Max Verstappen’s baby?
A. The couple shared black and white pictures of their newborn daughter with the caption, “Welcome to the world, sweet Lily. Our hearts have never felt this full. You are our biggest blessing, and we love you deeply.”