“It’s not a problem,” Stefano Domenicali dismisses Max Verstappen’s retirement threats over F1’s format experiments
Max Verstappen has issued retirement threats to the FIA due to their constant format changes.
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Max Verstappen and Stefano Domenicali (Images via The Guardian)
Max Verstappen stands as the driver at the forefront of F1. He showcased an extraordinary performance in the 2022 season by securing an unprecedented 15 wins. However, Verstappen has made a shocking statement regarding his future in the sport. He expressed his intention to step away from F1 if there are excessive alterations, especially regarding the introduction of sprint races.
This announcement has caught many off guard, as it involves a reigning world champion contemplating an exit from the sport. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has responded to these threats to the media. Domenicali said, “I discussed the issues with Max before the last race in Miami, he said he loved the sport and what he was doing. He is World Champion and is fighting for a third Title. He was born in a car. I would say he is likely to stay longer than me. It’s not a problem.”
Verstappen has voiced his disapproval of the various experiments taking place in Formula . He stated that they undermine the fundamental essence of the sport. According to him, these try-outs and changes erode the core DNA that defines F1. Luckily, this reassuring from Domenicali is a sigh of relief from fans, as the retirement of a driver in his prime, and a current world champion would be devastating for the sport.
Max Verstappen has been dropping retirement hints for a while now
Despite Max Verstappen’s relatively young age of 25, he has already achieved the remarkable feat of becoming a two-time F1 world champion. With an impressive tally of 38 wins, Verstappen currently holds the sixth position in the all-time list of F1 race winners. Considering his outstanding track record, it is evident that he will continue to add to this tally in the future.
Ayrton Senna currently sits ahead with 41 wins, followed by Alain Prost with 51. Given Verstappen’s talent and success, it is inevitable that he will make significant strides toward reaching the upper echelons of the all-time win list in F1.
Verstappen delivers consistent performance and has potential to secure more championships. He will continue to break records in F1, provided he continues to have competitive cars. However, he has occasionally hinted at the possibility of retiring at a younger age than the average F1 driver.
His current contract is set to expire in 2028 when he will be 31 years old. In his own words, Verstappen has expressed a lack of enthusiasm for racing in F1 until the age of 40. One of the factors influencing his inclination towards an earlier retirement is the demanding and packed schedule of the sport.
The Dutchman has contemplated the demanding nature of F1, particularly the extensive travel schedule that keeps him away from his loved ones. He questioned whether the pursuit of further success in the sport justifies the considerable time spent away from family and friends.
Verstappen acknowledged that he has already accomplished everything he desired in the sport, but he is aware of his contractual commitment until 2028. While acknowledging that 31 is still relatively young, he expresses a desire to explore different endeavors and experiences in life beyond motorsport.
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Tanuj Sadasivam
(245 Articles Published)