A former Red Bull mechanic has issued a warning about Max Verstappen’s next steps in F1, sparking concern in the paddock by openly suggesting that retirement is becoming more probable.
The future of the four-time world champion now appears extremely uncertain, after a former trusted team member hinted at a sensational exit at the end of 2025.
“Five titles and then done”: the theory shaking the paddock
The suggestion came from Calum Nicholas, former Red Bull mechanic, who responded confidently in an interview on Lucas Stewart’s YouTube channel to a tricky question: how many titles will Max Verstappen win before leaving Formula 1?
“Five,” Nicholas replied confidently. “I think he’ll win this year and then retire.”
The statement quickly spread online, leaving fans and insiders both skeptical and concerned.
Max Verstappen, now 27 and already a four-time world champion, has never hidden his lack of interest in records and his preference for a “short but intense” career. However, the current season is not going to plan: after finishing tenth in Spain and receiving a penalty for a collision with George Russell, he has dropped 49 points behind leader Oscar Piastri. A comeback is possible, but McLaren appears to have taken off, and morale within the Red Bull garage is not at its peak.
Also looming is 2026, a year of major regulatory changes. Red Bull will face the challenge of building its own engines in-house—a major unknown that, when combined with mental fatigue and constant pressure, could convince Max Verstappen to move on.
Waiting for him, should he choose to retire, are his partner Kelly Piquet and their daughter Lily, born in May of this year. Max Verstappen has never hidden his desire to dedicate more time to his family and personal life.
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