Reigning world champion Max Verstappen has sent shockwaves through Formula 1 by revealing he could leave the sport as early as next year, prioritising enjoyment over a relentless pursuit of records.
Verstappen's Future Hangs in the Balance
The Dutch driver, who is just 28 years old, made the surprising admission ahead of this weekend's crucial championship showdown at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi. Speaking to Daily Mail Sport, Verstappen offered a candid assessment of his career trajectory.
'For now I go on. But let’s see how things go for next year,' he stated. 'If it’s fun, I’ll go on but let’s think about it. I’ll review it throughout the year. It looks good but it’s impossible to say.'
This revelation comes despite Verstappen being in the prime of his career and in the midst of a fierce battle for the drivers' championship.
Triple-Threat Title Showdown in Abu Dhabi
The stage is set for a dramatic finale to the 2024 season this Sunday. Verstappen's victory in Qatar last weekend has teed up a blockbuster decider, but he faces a significant challenge.
Britain's Lando Norris currently holds a 12-point advantage over Verstappen in the standings. This means Norris only needs to secure a third-place finish in the 57-lap race to clinch his maiden world title, regardless of where Verstappen finishes.
The championship is a three-way fight, with Norris's McLaren teammate, Oscar Piastri, also in mathematical contention, sitting 16 points behind the leader.
Norris Rules Out Team Orders Request
Ahead of the climactic race, all three title protagonists appeared together at a press conference. A slightly nervous Norris was quick to address the elephant in the room: the potential for team orders from McLaren to favour his championship bid.
'I don't want Oscar to move over,' Norris insisted. 'It has not been discussed and shouldn't be. If Oscar wants to do that, I would not mind. But I shall not ask for it. It is not something for me to demand or that I would want.'
He acknowledged his precarious position, stating, 'I guess in terms of position, of course, I have the most to lose because I am the one at the top.'
Verstappen's contemplation of an early exit adds a profound layer of intrigue to an already high-stakes weekend. Should he triumph against the odds in Abu Dhabi, the sport may be left wondering if it has just witnessed the beginning of the end for one of its most dominant modern champions.
