Verstappen glad to see Alonso stay: but doubts matching his F1 longevity

Ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, Alonso confirmed his decision. GPblog also reported that the World Endurance Championship was on the Spaniard's radar, but in the end, the 45-year-old driver will continue in Formula 1. Aston Martin also announced that Alonso's teammate will be Lance Stroll.

Asked about Alonso's decision to stay in Formula 1, Verstappen said: "Well, I mean, Fernando is a competitive animal and I like to see that. And for me also, I mean, I’m very happy, of course, that he stays. You know, it’s nice to see Fernando in Formula 1 and, of course, really nice to see what he has all achieved and the drive that he has at that age, you know, to continue."

The Dutchman continued: "I’m not sure I could have that same drive, but we’ll see over time. But, yeah, very happy for him and I’m sure that Aston Martin is also very happy for him to stay because he has a lot of experience and I’m sure he can guide them, you know, to better results."

Verstappen says he will likely keep racing, but he does not expect to remain in Formula 1 due to its busy schedule. "And, yeah, do I see myself? I don’t know. I mean, I’ll probably race something, but I think at one point after having done a lot of seasons, maybe you just want to take it a little bit easier. But that’s different for everyone."

Verstappen will drive for his own team at the GT World Challenge Europe's Portimao weekend. Answering this website's question in Malaysia, he said: "Well, I know that two of my drivers won’t be part of the line-up, so, yeah, two other drivers need to step in. And I’m, yeah, I’m looking forward to it. Yeah, it’s going to be a busy seven weeks, but we’ll do it. And I enjoy it anyway. So, yeah, let’s see what we can do there. Yes, [I'll race there]."