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Max Verstappen warned Red Bull four years ago that he might want out after the 2026 season. The four-time world champion is considering retiring at the end of the season.
Verstappen’s Red Bull contract runs until the end of 2028, but there’s a genuine chance he won’t see out that deal, at least in the capacity of a Formula 1 driver.
One theory is that Verstappen could represent the Red Bull brand in other racing series, or simply as an ambassador. The Dutchman has become disillusioned with the increased electrification of F1.
What do Red Bull need to do to convince Max Verstappen to stay in F1?
Max Verstappen asked for 2026 escape route four years ago
It’s now well known that Verstappen’s contract includes an exit clause, allowing him to leave if he is outside the top two in the world championship at a specific juncture in the 2026 season. He can activate the clause from August to October.
But now, ESPN have revealed this clause was ‘specifically added’ due to Verstappen’s ‘longstanding apprehension’ about the new regulations. He signed the deal in early 2022, but the framework of the regulations, including the threefold increase in battery power, had already been set out.
Effectively, Verstappen demanded a way out of his contract in case his enjoyment subsided. The outcome he feared has now come to pass.
As Martin Brundle explained on the latest episode of the F1 Show, there was also a competitive motivation. Red Bull have spent years playing down their chances post-2025.
He said: “I have absolutely no doubt whatsoever that, given they were building their own powertrain for the first time, that his management would have put in an exit clause at the end of this year to see how it goes.”
Max Verstappen may favour a sabbatical over retirement
ESPN’s report adds that Verstappen is on the ‘precipice’ of retirement, although he is only at the ‘beginning of the period’ that will decide his future. Making a call after three races would be premature, particularly as he is speaking to the FIA about potential rule changes.
The publication has been told that Verstappen could take a sabbatical. While he wouldn’t make a firm commitment to return, he wouldn’t definitively end his F1 career either.
David Coulthard suggested Verstappen may take a break weeks ago, and it wouldn’t be unprecedented. Michael Schumacher, Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen all returned after seemingly retiring.
Verstappen is still only 28 years old, but any return would be motivated by a desire to compete at the highest level rather than chase records.
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