Max Verstappen told why him retiring in 2026 would not be the ‘biggest surprise’ in F1 history

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Max Verstappen has been told why retirement from Formula 1 this year would not be the ‘biggest surprise’ in the sport’s history. 

Verstappen, 28, has publicly expressed his discontent over F1’s new regulations on multiple occasions already this season. 

The Dutchman has previously compared the new rules to ‘Mario Kart’ and labelled his car as ‘undriveable’.

Following a disappointing Japanese Grand Prix, it was reported that Verstappen is ‘seriously considering’ retiring at the end of this year.

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At the age of just 28, it would be a huge loss for F1 if Verstappen decides to call it a day after the 2026 campaign. 

However, according to former F1 engineer Toni Cuquerella, Verstappen’s retirement will not be the biggest shock the sport has ever experienced.

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Max Verstappen retiring would not be the ‘biggest surprise’ in F1 history

For Cuquerella, Nico Rosberg’s decision to retire following the 2016 season remains the biggest surprise in F1 history.

He said to Marca: “I don’t really know what Verstappen thinks. Whether it’s true or not. 

“The biggest surprise was Rosberg leaving, since even Mercedes didn’t know. There are many ways to leave. I don’t know if it’s just speculation, and we don’t know what’s going on inside people’s heads.” 

Back in 2016, Rosberg realised his dream of being world champion by beating Mercedes teammate and childhood friend Lewis Hamilton to the title.

After what was a tense and dramatic battle that ultimately derailed the pair’s relationship, Rosberg decided to step away from the sport.

The German publicly confirmed his retirement just five days after winning the world title.

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Why did Nico Rosberg retire from F1 at the age of just 31?

Speaking to Men’s Health Magazine back in 2013, Rosberg admitted that he was ‘afraid’ that he would not be ‘good enough’ if he continued his career.

He explained: “[I was] afraid that at some point I wouldn’t be good enough and that no team would want me anymore. I wanted to decide for myself.

“Everything in my life was racing: my mechanics, my engineers, my team-mates, even my social environment.

“To put all that to zero in one fell swoop was a shock to my system. Then there was the addiction to recognition and success.”

Since retiring from the sport, Rosberg has moved into punditry and has often worked on Sky Sports’ F1 coverage.