Four-time Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen remains uncertain about the duration of his racing career, amid growing speculation regarding his future plans. The Dutch driver’s current contract with Red Bull is nearing its end, and rumors suggest potential moves to Mercedes or a switch to GT3 sportscar racing as possible next steps.
Verstappen’s reflections on his continuation in Formula 1 reveal that his motivation lies primarily in the desire to win rather than financial gain. Speaking to The Athletic, he emphasized the importance of passion and competitive hunger in deciding how long he remains in the sport.
Verstappen on the Challenges of Maintaining Competitive Drive
The 27-year-old explained that many drivers stay on in the sport for varying reasons, but for him, the key factor is being in a winning car and enjoying the team environment. He said,
“Some people come here to just get the best out of their car because some don’t have a winning car,”
and added that as long as he can stay in a top-performing team and work with people he appreciates, he intends to continue racing.
“I don’t know when that will stop. Is that 32? Is that 35? 36? I don’t know. It’s impossible to know.”
Balancing Family Life Amid Racing Commitments
Verstappen recently became a father for the first time in April with his partner Kelly Piquet, and he has been involved in the life of Piquet’s daughter Penelope since she was a toddler. Despite his professional success, Verstappen admitted he struggles with missing everyday family moments due to the demanding nature of his career.
“I feel like I’m already missing out so much on just being with my family,”
he shared candidly, describing how he values simple, unplanned gatherings that are difficult to maintain with their current distance and commitments.
He further explained,
“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.”
Speculation about a Move to Mercedes and Contract Talks
Following some difficulties with the Red Bull RB21 this season, rumors have intensified about Verstappen possibly switching to Mercedes upon major regulation changes in 2026. Nonetheless, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has indicated that while discussions between Verstappen and the team have happened, a deal for the upcoming season is unlikely.
“Discussions have been taking place over the last weeks and months, so they are all up to date,”
Wolff stated in an interview with Austrian broadcaster ORF. He also clarified the team’s priorities, saying,
“The direction of travel is definitely that we want to continue with George and Kimi. That is the absolute priority. But you can’t look past someone like Max and the plans he has for the future. We did that, but I don’t think there will be any big surprises.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Max Verstappen in Formula 1
As Verstappen contemplates his professional journey, the Formula 1 world watches closely to see if he will continue fighting for titles in the sport or pursue alternative racing challenges. His uncertain timeline and commitment to remaining competitive underscore the intensity with which he approaches his career decisions. Meanwhile, the balance between personal life and racing ambitions adds complexity to his future moves.
With contract talks ongoing and speculation surrounding his next steps, Max Verstappen’s plans will undoubtedly shape the sport’s landscape in the coming years, especially as regulation changes approach in 2026.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is number 13 banned in F1?
A. Yes, you can use number 13. Pastor Maldonado actually chose #13 when the permanent number system started in 2014. Some see this number as unlucky, but F1 lets drivers decide.
Q. Which F1 driver has ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton’s struggles with ADHD and dyslexia have influenced both his racing career and personal life. His journey shows that exceptional performance in Formula 1 can include learning differences.
Q. Is 69 allowed in F1?
A. F1 drivers can select a permanent number for their careers, choosing from numbers 2 to 99, but number 17 is not allowed.