At the dawn of a new coronation, Max Verstappen does not just think about his performances on the track. He is already charting his course towards a future beyond F1.
As he prepares to win his fourth consecutive world title, Max Verstappen is already planning beyond Formula 1. The Dutch driver, aged 27, surprised his fans by saying that he was not considering a career as long as that of Fernando Alonso, still active at 43 years old.
On the sidelines of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Verstappen reaffirmed that he does not see himself in F1 for many more years. Under contract with Red Bull until 2028, he admits that the growing number of races and the politicization of the discipline are pushing him to consider early retirement.
“I won't be here long enough to aim for ten or twelve world titles. I love what I do, but everything is just a bonus now. I prefer to leave at the top, with positive memories, rather than burn out for decades” he declared.
The frustrations of a champion
Verstappen also spoke about the aspects of modern F1 that bother him, including social media: “Everyone has an opinion, often unfounded. It's frustrating to see people who criticize without understanding the sport.”
The number of races, now set at 24 per year on the F1 calendar, is another weighing factor: “It affects everyone, not just the drivers. The mechanics, the engineers, everyone is constantly on the road. It's not sustainable in the long term.”
A passion for simulation and young talents
Far from turning away from motorsport, Verstappen intends to invest his energy in other projects after F1. His great passion? Online racing simulation. With his team, Redline, he wants to offer opportunities to young talents who do not have the means to start in motorsport.
“I want to create a bridge between the virtual world and reality. Find talents, help them, and give them a chance to realize their dreams. It’s a project that motivates me enormously” he confides.
No consultancy role for Verstappen
Unlike other former drivers, Verstappen has no plans to become a consultant or commentator. With his legendary frankness, he jokes: “If I always gave my opinion, there would be a lot of things that couldn't be shown on television. I prefer to sip a gin and tonic whenever I feel like it.”
At the dawn of a new coronation, Verstappen does not just think about his performances on the track. He is already charting his path towards a future where he will be able to combine passion and freedom, far from the constraints of modern F1.
