Verstappen seriously considered walking away from F1 after hitting 'rock bottom'
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Tobia is a Formula 1 journalist at GPblog with experience at international circuits. Since 2022, he has covered Grands Prix across Europe, delivering reliable coverage and insights from the paddock.
Max Verstappen has revealed that he seriously considered retiring from Formula 1 earlier this season, admitting that his frustration with the 2026 regulations reached an unprecedented level. Despite recently extending his Red Bull contract until 2030, the Dutchman refuses to guarantee that he will remain in the sport until then.
Speaking to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, the four-time world champion opened up about the difficulties he experienced during the opening race weekends of the 2026 season, revealing that the new regulations left him questioning his future in Formula 1.
"Yes, I really hit rock bottom, especially during the first few race weekends of this season. I never experienced anything like that before," Verstappen admitted.
The Red Bull driver has been particularly critical of the 2026 regulations, with his dissatisfaction reaching the point where he seriously contemplated walking away from Formula 1 altogether. However, Verstappen acknowledged that the sport has responded to some of the concerns raised, with changes expected in the coming years that could help address his frustrations.
"Obviously, the sport has listened to some of our requests," Verstappen explained. "There will be changes in the coming years, with a slightly greater role for the combustion engine."
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Photo: Race Pictures
Verstappen refuses to guarantee F1 future despite Red Bull contract extension
Just a few weeks ago, Verstappen signed a two-year contract extension with Red Bull, extending his previous agreement from 2028 until the end of 2030. The new deal appeared to secure his long-term future with the Milton Keynes-based team, putting an end to speculation surrounding a potential departure.
Despite his frustrations with the current regulations, Verstappen emphasised that his relationship with Red Bull remains one of the main reasons he wants to continue racing in Formula 1.
"At Red Bull, I also feel really comfortable with the people I work with and the way we operate as a team. For us, results come first. That is the most important thing. But you also need to feel comfortable and appreciated, and that is exactly how I feel here."
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The Dutchman also expressed optimism about the team's prospects, although he made it clear that his recently extended contract does not necessarily mean he will remain in Formula 1 until 2030.
"The prospects for the future also look positive, although that is no guarantee that I will stay in the sport until at least 2030," Verstappen admitted. "You can never say for certain, but that is the goal."
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