Max Verstappen has clarified which factors he would consider if he were ever to evaluate a career change, showing that his decisions extend beyond just Formula 1 results.
Verstappen and Mercedes: the 2025 rumors
Back in early 2022, Max Verstappen, fresh off his first Formula 1 World Championship, signed a multi-year record contract with Red Bull, set to expire in 2028. Since then, the Dutch driver has claimed three more consecutive world titles, culminating in the latest championship. During the 2025 season, however, the relationship between the 28-year-old and Milton Keynes seemed strained, with rumors suggesting a potential split.
The speculation intensified leading up to the summer break, until Max Verstappen himself decided to put an end to the rumors linking him to a move to Mercedes in 2026: “I think it’s time to silence all these rumors, and for me it has always been pretty clear that I would stay anyway.”
How he evaluates a change
Months later, in an interview with BBC Sport, Max Verstappen explained that he had seriously considered a transfer, outlining the key factors that influence his career decisions: “For me, it’s not just about F1. There are many things that need to align for me to make a change. Future roles or things like that. So if I were ever to change, obviously it would be important for me, because this is definitely like a second family, and it’s not easy to replicate. The change, if I were to make it, wouldn’t just be because I need a faster F1 car or a different environment. There are many factors regarding my F1 career and things I’m doing outside F1 that need to coincide.” – he pointed out.
Reflecting on the 2025 season rumors
Looking back at the rumors from the last championship, Max Verstappen admitted he did indeed consider a change: “I won’t lie. There were some discussions, but at the same time it was all very friendly and open. Nothing more.”
In conclusion, Max Verstappen also highlighted another objective: improving as a driver. “I always try to pay attention to details, to learn the car and to learn about myself by doing many things outside F1. I drive many different cars; I’m just trying to become a more complete driver.”
The bond between Max Verstappen and Red Bull remains intact, but his comments suggest that any future move will depend on a holistic view of his life and career—both inside and outside the grand prix paddock.
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