Verstappen hints at retirement
Dad Jos Verstappen had warned in recent days: Max is not having fun at all with this new generation of cars. Even within the Dutch champion’s entourage, there was widespread concern about the lack of motivation that could trigger in the four-time world champion, who has definitely been the most critical voice towards the new regulations since winter testing.
So it was surprising, but only to a certain extent, to read that Max Verstappen has not ruled out the possibility of retirement and that he announced the coming weeks will be crucial to decide his future in the category.
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Max’s thoughts
The BBC gathered the thoughts of Max Verstappen at the end of the Japanese Grand Prix: an articulated and non-hasty reasoning on the real possibility of leaving Formula 1. It is interesting to present it in full, to understand how Verstappen is truly at a crossroads for his career in the top category. The Dutchman also responded to the allusions of those who accuse him of complaining only because he is no longer racing for the win, due to the competitiveness of his immature Red Bull.
Max Verstappen: “Retirement at the end of the year? That’s what I’m saying, I’m thinking about everything that happens in this paddock. On a private level, I am very happy. This year there are 22 races, usually there are 24. But then you wonder if it’s worth it. Or if I prefer to stay home more with my family. Or see my friends more when I’m not on track.
I can easily accept being 7th or 8th, where I am now. I also know that you can’t always dominate or get on the podium every time. I am very realistic about this and I’ve been through it before. I haven’t only won in F1. But when you are 7th or 8th and you don’t appreciate the formula and it doesn’t feel like something natural for a driver… I try to adapt, but the way you have to race is not pleasant because it’s the opposite of how you drive. Simply it’s no longer what I want to do.
Of course, you can travel the world and earn money. Great. But in the end, it’s no longer about money, because we’re talking about what has always been my passion. As a child, I wanted to do this. I want to be here in F1 to have fun, to have a good time and enjoy life. And at the moment, it’s not like that. Some aspects I appreciate, like working with my team, which is a second family. But when I sit in the car, unfortunately, it’s not the most pleasant thing. I’m trying, I keep telling myself every day to enjoy what there is. But it’s very difficult.
I’m still trying to commit 100% and I keep telling myself that, but it doesn’t seem very healthy, because I’m not having fun doing what I do.
People can easily accuse me of just complaining because the car isn’t good, but I see it differently. I still have other projects that I’m very passionate about, like GT3 racing. It’s not just about racing, but also about being part of the team and it’s fun for me to build all this and I intend to develop it further in the next few years. But even just talking about all this is sad. That’s how things are. There’s no need for you to feel sorry for me, I’ll be fine.”
