Max Verstappen has revealed he is considering retiring from Formula 1 at the end of the 2026 season, citing dissatisfaction with the sport's direction. The four-time world champion, who is contracted to Red Bull until 2028, finished eighth at the Japanese Grand Prix and currently sits ninth in the drivers' standings, 60 points behind leader Kimi Antonelli.
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live after the race in Suzuka, Verstappen said: 'That's what I'm saying. I'm thinking about everything inside this paddock. Privately I'm very happy. You also wait for 24 races... and then you just think about is it worth it? Or do I enjoy being more at home with my family?'
The 28-year-old insisted Red Bull's poor performance is not behind his outlook, but rather the new generation of cars introduced in 2026. He has criticised the energy deployment rules that force drivers to lift and coast on straights, describing the racing as 'like Mario Kart' and 'anti-driving'.
Verstappen, who missed out on a fifth consecutive title by two points last year, acknowledged he can accept finishing lower down the order but said the lack of enjoyment makes it hard to continue. 'I want to be here to have fun and have a great time and enjoy myself. At the moment that's not really the case,' he added.
Formula 1 now enters a five-week break before the Miami Grand Prix on 3 May.
