Max Verstappen is considering retiring from Formula 1 at the end of 2026, according to a well-connected Dutch newspaper.
De Telegraaf, an outlet usually very reliable on all things Verstappen, reported on Sunday that the four-time world champion is contemplating walking away from the sport due to F1’s controversial new regulations.
The story comes on the back of a disappointing Japanese Grand Prix weekend, which saw Verstappen eliminated from Q2 in qualifying before finishing eighth behind Alpine’s Pierre Gasly in the race.
The newspaper reports “crucial weeks ahead,” referring to the month break from racing due to the cancelled races in the Middle East.
ESPN has reached out to Red Bull for further comment.
Max Verstappen had a disappointing weekend in Japan, knocked out of Q2 in qualifying and finishing 8th in the race. Marcel van Dorst/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Verstappen has made it clear in the past that he has no issue quitting F1 as soon as he stops enjoying himself.
The difficult start to 2026 appears to have exacerbated his feelings. Verstappen not only dislikes the new cars — which he has linked to Mario Kart and labelled “anti-racing” — but has also grown increasingly frustrated by Red Bull’s uncompetitive car.
After being eliminated in Q2 on Saturday, he told the media he was “beyond frustrated” with his current situation and did not know any words to describe how he felt about the sport at the moment.
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He also mentioned he had to “figure some stuff out” in the upcoming break, but did not confirm anything beyond that.
Verstappen, who turns 29 in September, is third on F1’s all-time race winners list with 71 — only Lewis Hamilton (105) and Michael Schumacher (91) have more.
This year, he will race at the Nurburgring 24 Hours endurance sports car race — he has competed at the legendary German circuit in two highly-publicised events so far.
He’s already confirmed he wants to compete at the Le Mans 24 Hours in future.