The mysteries of Max Verstappen: “My next step will be my last in Formula 1”. F1: Max Verstappen has not hinted at what decision he might make in the coming seasons.

A final step
Mystery around Max Verstappen’s future in Formula 1 is intensifying, especially after his recent statements to Sky Sport F1 ahead of the United States Grand Prix in Austin. The three-time world champion briefly spoke about what his future plans might be, without specifying them, but appearing certain about one choice: “My next step, if there is one, will be the last.”

Red Bull or elsewhere?
Currently, the Dutchman has a contract with Red Bull that runs until 2028, and the “step” he referred to could be simply renewing with the Milton Keynes-based team. However, even before Andrea Kimi Antonelli‘s official announcement at Mercedes, Toto Wolff had attempted to bring the championship leader to Brackley. Recent rumors from Silverstone suggest Aston Martin could be preparing for a similar, complex move following the already confirmed arrival of Adrian Newey.

A problem not for now
An enigmatic Max Verstappen, therefore, with the winner of 61 F1 Grands Prix offering no concrete indications, leaving various possibilities open: “It could also mean I renew my current contract.” His deal includes clauses that would allow him to end his relationship with Red Bull before 2028: “Maybe yes, maybe no – he continued – it’s not something I’m even thinking about at the moment because there are so many things I want to do better this year, and everything that comes in the future is still far away. It’s not an issue right now.” – the Dutchman explained.

This current phase of his career doesn’t suggest Max Verstappen is looking to leave Milton Keynes, where he grew up in Red Bull’s Academy and won his Formula 1 titles: “I’ve been part of this team for a long time – the Red Bull driver concluded ahead of the United States Grand Prix – ultimately, every driver in the paddock wants to win. It’s very easy to switch teams, but I don’t want my career to be marked in that way. I don’t want to be part of four or five different teams. I want to build a long and stable relationship with all the members of the team, and I want to feel at home somewhere. Switching teams isn’t for me, and I don’t want to do it at this stage of my career.”