Ex-F1 champion warns Max Verstappen might lose opportunities to jump ship in 2026

Former F1 driver Jacques Villeneuve asserted that Max Verstappen might need to decide quickly if he wants to leave Red Bull.

Ex-F1 champion warns Max Verstappen might lose opportunities to jump ship in 2026

Christian Horner and Max Verstappen (via F1)

Max Verstappen remains a hot topic in the F1 driver market despite having a contract with Red Bull till the end of 2028. Many teams are believed to be interested in the Dutch driver. However, former F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve has warned the 27-year-old to not waste time if he does want to leave Milton Keynes.

The four-time world champion has an exit clause which could allow him to switch teams before 2028. Aston Martin is believed to be the number 1 contender in the race to poach Verstappen. Though, Helmut Marko recently expressed his confidence in retaining the F1 star at least for the foreseeable future.

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Jacques Villeneuve highlighted that Max Verstappen‘s decision will depend on the available options. The Canadian warned the 27-year-old that he might have not any exciting options left for next season. Even teams which are interested in Verstappen might not have an opportunity for him if he takes too long to decide on his future.

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It depends on what’s available. Maybe next year there’s not an exciting team available for him to leave to join. Even if most teams would want him, maybe the opportunity is not there.

Jacques Villeneuve said, as quoted by GPBlog

Max Verstappen a ‘peculiar’ driver

Villeneuve claimed that the Dutch driver was not like most on the grid. He called Max Verstappen a rather ‘peculiar’ driver. The Canadian pinpointed that although Verstappen pushes himself to the limit at every race, he needs a specific car to maximize his performance. Moreover, Jacques Villeneuve insisted that not every car would really suit his driving style.

Max Verstappen (via Red Bull)
Max Verstappen (via Red Bull)

It’s really difficult to understand. He is a peculiar driver. He really drives to the limit and is always on it. He needs a specific car. Not every car that would suit his driving style.

Jacques Villeneuve added

Certainly, Max Verstappen performs the best when he is comfortable with the machinery. The Dutchman shattered several records in 2023 with the RB19. While last season was more challenging. Nevertheless, it remains to be seen if the reigning world champion can have a strong start to the season this time around as well.