Verstappen doubles down on F1 exit talk amid motivation and racing frustration

The Red Bull Racing driver, speaking to the BBC, highlighted how content he feels in his private life, particularly when spending time with family and friends, especially during moments when racing isn’t as enjoyable.

“I’m thinking about everything inside this paddock,” Verstappen explained when pressed further on talks of a possible exit.

“Privately, I’m very happy. You also wait for 24 races. This time it’s 22, but normally 24. And then you just think about it: is it worth it? Or do I enjoy being more at home with my family? Seeing my friends more when you’re not enjoying your sport?” he added.

The 28-year-old clarified that his concerns are not driven by performance issues with Red Bull’s car, but rather his dissatisfaction with the current regulations.

“But at the same time, when you are in P7 or P8 and you are not enjoying the whole formula behind it, it doesn’t feel natural to a racing driver,” he added.

Verstappen noted how he continues to try to adapt to the demands of the new F1 regulations, which he describes as ‘anti-driving’, before touching on motivating factors to continue racing in Formula 1.

Reflecting further on his future, Verstappen stressed that enjoyment is fundamental to success in any sport.

“Now I think I’m committing 100% and I’m still trying, but the way that I am telling myself to give it 100% is not very healthy at the moment because I am not enjoying what I’m doing,” he added.

The Red Bull driver also addressed potential criticism that his frustrations stem purely from a lack of competitiveness.

“And now people can easily say, ‘Yeah, well, you’ve won so many championships and races and now just because the car is not good, you are complaining.’ Maybe you can see it like that, but I see it differently,” he concluded.

Verstappen has not held back his criticism of the new Formula 1 regulations, with the four-time world champion earlier comparing the current rules to Formula E on steroids.

Earlier, reigning world champion, Lando Norris also detailed his frustration with the current F1 regulations.

The McLaren driver, during his media session following his outing in Suzuka, echoed Verstappen’s frustration regarding how the sport has become less enjoyable for drivers.

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