After three races, the verdict on the 2026 Formula 1 season is increasingly critical: the on-track spectacle appears artificial and tends to penalize pure driving talent, regardless of the competitive balance between the cars. Overtakes often look engineered, followed by immediate counter-overtakes, while even the value of a single flying lap has been diminished. In this context, Max Verstappen is clearly struggling—raising the question: what could happen next? If the Dutch driver were to walk away, the idea of Christian Horner returning to Red Bull as a co-owner would no longer seem far-fetched.
The entire F1 system under scrutiny
There are also serious concerns regarding the FIA’s handling of communication. In the standard onboard footage of the pole-sitter, the section between Spoon Curve and the Triangle was deliberately omitted—a part of the track where the drop in power delivery was particularly noticeable and, at times, embarrassing. Following the third round of the season, the FIA released a statement emphasizing unity of intent between manufacturers, drivers and Formula One Management.
This move is aimed at initiating a structured revision of energy management systems, taking advantage of the month-long break caused by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. However, it is difficult to imagine teams currently benefiting from a competitive advantage—particularly those powered by Mercedes—agreeing to compromises, unless safety concerns allow the FIA to intervene independently.
At this stage, the key decision-makers must show their true intentions. Attendance figures at the first three Grands Prix have been record-breaking. The constant position changes on track provide more visible action, and some media outlets have even compared today’s racing to the legendary Villeneuve–Pironi duel at Dijon. From a superficial perspective, these arguments might seem sufficient to justify continuing along this path.
There is, however, a significant issue. Beyond the traditional purists, many drivers themselves are not enjoying this new era. Charles Leclerc is unable to fully express his qualifying brilliance without running out of energy, while the reigning world champion, Lando Norris, has openly stated that drivers’ opinions are not being taken into account at all during this phase.
Verstappen could walk away
And then there is Max Verstappen. The driver from Hasselt appears completely out of place in this new environment. The Red Bull RB22 is an immature project from a power unit perspective and lacks competitiveness in aerodynamic and mechanical areas. Yet Verstappen’s frustration goes beyond performance alone.
He would have over 70 million reasons to remain silent and continue fighting in the midfield, waiting for better times. The real issue is that, with these cars, the enjoyment of driving has disappeared. Max is no longer able to make the difference through the fundamental skills of a racing driver.
It is unclear whether he would feel the same level of dissatisfaction if he were behind the wheel of the Mercedes W17. However, the mere fact that he is considering retirement from Formula 1 at just 28 years old sends a powerful message following the Japanese Grand Prix weekend. This would not be a retirement from motorsport altogether—Verstappen has made it clear that he intends to continue racing in categories where he can truly enjoy himself.
Winning is not necessarily the only objective. The strongest driver on the current grid is under contract with Red Bull until 2028, yet it is highly likely that several performance-related exit clauses could allow him to leave depending on results. This opens the door to a number of intriguing scenarios.
Horner’s return could reshape Red Bull
Personally, Max Verstappen’s doubts come as no surprise. On the controversial night of the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, he stated that he had already fulfilled the dream he had pursued since childhood. Everything that followed would simply be a bonus. If, during this current break, Verstappen were to decide to leave Formula 1, it would represent an unprecedented blow to both the FIA and Formula One Management.
As the saying goes, “the show must go on.” Formula 1 will continue even without the Dutch star. The history of sport is filled with champions who stepped away at the peak of their careers—Nico Rosberg, Casey Stoner, Ian Thorpe, to name just a few. However, none of them walked away because they no longer identified with the sport they had loved since childhood.
One thing is certain: the future of the Hasselt-born driver could trigger unexpected consequences. Among them is the potential return of Christian Horner to Milton Keynes. Would it be a bold move? Perhaps. But given Red Bull’s current situation, a manager of his caliber could prove invaluable.
This is not merely a fantasy scenario. The internal opposition that once stood in his way is no longer present. Although Horner has significant financial resources at his disposal, there are still obstacles preventing his return to the Formula 1 paddock. Rejoining the team he originally built—and potentially leading a takeover bid alongside investors—could represent the ideal solution for both parties.
For Red Bull, it would mean rediscovering a clear direction. For Horner, it would be the opportunity to finally assume the role he has always envisioned for himself within the sport.
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