Max Verstappen could forfeit over £226 million if he decides to walk away from Formula One prematurely, according to a sports finance expert. The four-time world champion has expressed frustration this season, failing to secure a podium finish in the first three races of 2026.
Verstappen, 28, sits ninth in the Drivers' Championship after finishing eighth at the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka. He also missed Red Bull's dry-weather tyre testing sessions earlier this week, having left Japan early to return to Monaco. The Dutchman has voiced unhappiness with both the RB22 car and new technical regulations, fuelling speculation he might quit the sport early.
Professor Wilson of the University Campus of Football Business in London analysed the financial implications. He told OLBG: 'His Red Bull deal is worth £45m per year as a basic package, with performance bonuses pushing total annual earnings closer to £75m. If he walked away with two years left, he would forfeit between £151m and £189m including bonuses and incentives.'
Wilson added that Verstappen's personal sponsorship income of £19m annually could rise to £38m at peak dominance, but would likely halve without F1 exposure. 'All in all, Verstappen would lose £226m, not including long-term effects,' he said.
Verstappen hinted at early retirement after the Japanese Grand Prix, saying: 'You think, is it worth it? Or do I enjoy being more at home with my family when you're not enjoying your sport?' He added: 'It's really anti-driving. At one point, it's just not what I want to do. It's not about money any more; this has always been my passion.'
F1 now enters an unprecedented five-week spring break, giving Verstappen time to reassess. The break follows the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix.
