Max Verstappen on quitting F1: “I could walk away tomorrow without any problem”. Max Verstappen has openly discussed the possibility of retiring from Formula 1.

F1 | Verstappen considering retirement: “I see no reason to stay”

Max Verstappen has once again raised eyebrows in the paddock by hinting at the possibility of retiring from Formula 1. If the new 2026 technical regulations fail to deliver fun and engaging racing, the four-time world champion is prepared to walk away from the sport entirely.

Verstappen seriously contemplating retirement due to FIA rules

During the Qatar Grand Prix weekend, Verstappen spoke to PA reporters, saying:

“My contract runs until 2028, but everything will depend on the new 2026 rules, and whether they are enjoyable and fun. If they aren’t fun, then I really don’t see a reason to stay.”

Max Verstappen’s main concern revolves around the growing complexity of energy management, which will become even more central in 2026. Many drivers fear that pure driving talent will matter less than the ability to optimize energy deployment and recovery, turning driving into a more managerial exercise than an instinctive one.

“I have other passions; I could leave F1 tomorrow without issues”

Even more striking is the detached tone with which Max Verstappen discusses the possibility of leaving immediately:

“I could leave Formula 1 even tomorrow, without problems.”

Adding credibility to his statements is the fact that Verstappen has already begun exploring other racing categories. This year, he won a major endurance race at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, confirming his interest in different forms of motorsport that are less restrictive and more “pure” in their approach. He further explained what life could look like outside F1:

“I have many other passions; other categories, I want to spend more time with my family and live at my own pace. In my mind, if I close the F1 chapter, it’s closed. I don’t plan to stop and then come back. Once I stop, I really stop.”