Max Verstappen Hints at Wanting More Family Time Amid Uncertain F1 Future
Max Verstappen made it clear that he would be ready to retire from F1 if he felt like wanting more time with his family.
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Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet with newborn daughter Lily (via @maxverstappen1/Instagram)
Max Verstappen is arguably the biggest name in Formula 1 at the moment. All eyes are on the Dutch driver’s future in the sport, despite him already having a contract with Red Bull till the end of 2028. Rumors have persisted that Verstappen could join a rival team or even leave the sport entirely next season. Now, the four-time world champion has laid out when he would decide on retiring from F1.
Verstappen is only 27 years old right now. The Red Bull star can race for another decade or more if he really desires. However, the Dutchman has already amassed incredible success and might not feel the need to continue for longer. Additionally, Red Bull’s ever-increasing struggles only make matters worse for the reigning world champion. Albeit, he could decide to make a shift to a team like Mercedes instead.
After winning the 2021 F1 title against Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen had declared that every other victory was just going to be a bonus for him. Since he had achieved his lifelong dream. The 27-year-old asserted that he’ll continue to race in F1 as long as he finds it to be enjoyable. Moreover, Verstappen, who recently became a father, mentioned that he will hang up his racing gloves once he feels to spend more time with his family.
I already said after winning my first championship [that] everything that comes next is a bonus, and that’s also really how I see it. I will do it as long as I enjoy it and I can relate myself to the sport how I want to. Of course, this sport has changed a lot over the years, so as long as I enjoy it, really. Enjoy it, and let’s say, finding it okay to leave the family also behind.
Max Verstappen told ESPN
Max Verstappen to decide F1 future after 2028
The reigning world champion’s current deal with Red Bull stays put for now. Though, rumors have emerged that an exit clause during the summer break could allow Max Verstappen to leave the team for 2026. Nevertheless, the Dutch driver asserted that he will reconsider his place in F1 only after the end of his current contract.
The Red Bull star hinted that he was going to stay at Milton Keynes till the end of 2028 at least. From that point, Verstappen will take a look around the paddock to see any projects which gain his interest. The 27-year-old would only make a call to continue if he finds something exciting, be it at Red Bull or elsewhere. If that is not the case, then fans can expect him to say goodbye to the pinnacle of motorsport.
I have a contract until 2028, so for sure until then. After that, it also just depends a bit on what kind of projects are around or not — if it’s interesting or not.
Max Verstappen added
Max Verstappen does not have the intention to stay in Formula 1 till his 40s. The Dutchman has interests in other racing categories, be it GT3 or Endurance. Perhaps, the reigning world champion is looking to compete elsewhere once he bids farewell to Formula 1. However, fans will hope that Verstappen continues on the grid till at least his Red Bull deal comes to an end. On the other hand, even a switch to a rival team might not be out of question for the F1 star at this moment.
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