Is Max Verstappen preparing to surprise the world of Formula 1 by announcing his retirement, like Nico Rosberg did a few years ago?
Max Verstappen, the three-time reigning world champion, could consider leaving Formula 1 earlier than planned, according to comments from former driver Ralf Schumacher. The latter discusses the Dutchman’s frustrations following his recent penalty during the Singapore Grand Prix.
Palpable anger after the penalty
During the Singapore Grand Prix weekend, Verstappen expressed his anger after being penalized for an expletive said on the radio.
The decision was so frustrating that he almost refused to speak at press conferences, suggesting he might consider early retirement if the situation did not improve in motorsport’s premier class.
However, he received almost unanimous support from fellow drivers, team principals and fans, who believe the penalty was excessive.
Massive support from the F1 community
Ferrari boss Frédéric Vasseur said:
“Maybe we should focus on something other than a few words spoken in a split second.”
Likewise, Norbert Haug, former director of Mercedes F1, expressed his astonishment at the importance given to this matter, calling it “storm in a glass of water”. He even suggested that a simple beep would have been enough to resolve the problem.
Red Bull consultant Dr Helmut Marko also defended Verstappen saying his behavior after the penalty should be praised.
“Max remains true to his values and cannot ignore treatment that he considers unfair. This could be interpreted as a positive message for young people: ‘Always be true to your values’“ he declared.
Ralf Schumacher on the threat of departure
Conversely, Ralf Schumacher stressed that Verstappen’s threat to leave F1 could be real, particularly due to his independent nature.
“I think he will stop if things get worse. Because he is simply independent. He has earned enough money and has always said he will not stay in F1 forever. I don’t rule it out “ he said.
Schumacher also noted that the penalty for the word “Fuck” is just one of many frustrations Verstappen faces, including the departure of Adrian Newey and a car that doesn’t respond the way he wants.
“Max has a lot to deal with right nowhe added.There is the Christian Horner affair, the departure of Adrian Newey, the car which bounces and then the world championship which is slowly slipping away from him. Of course, we swear sometimes. A simple warning would have been enough.”
Lewis Hamilton gives advice to Verstappen
Lewis Hamilton, meanwhile, advised Verstappen to refuse to carry out his community service penalty. Ralf Schumacher commented on the suggestion, noting that Verstappen’s technical issues should be his priority.
“If I were his advisor, I would tell him not to waste energy on thishe declared. But he obviously feels unfairly treated and he’s stubborn, and I don’t think Ben Sulayem (the president of the FIA, editor’s note) be smart enough to reverse the trend. So I would make a virtue of necessity and embark on an exciting project, perhaps to help children or something else.”
He adds that Verstappen should instead focus on the car and winning the world championship, while re-establishing a dialogue during press conferences.
“He needs to focus on the car and winning the world championship. And speaking in conferences again. A boycott like this would only distract him.” concludes Schumacher.
An uncertain future for Verstappen?
Max Verstappen’s current situation in the F1 paddock is delicate. Between his personal and professional frustrations, as well as the massive support he receives from his peers, the Dutch champion’s future could well depend on future developments in the sport.
His determination to stay true to his values could influence not only his career, but also the image of Formula 1 as a whole.
