Patrese says Max Verstappen likely to quit F1 after 2026 season

Six‑time Grand Prix winner Riccardo Patrese told BettingLounge that Max Verstappen is “fed up” with the new regulations and will likely quit Formula 1 by season’s end. Patrese linked the imminent departure of Verstappen’s long‑time engineer Gianpiero Lambiase to a possible Red Bull exit, warning only a decisive car upgrade could keep the Dutch champion on the grid.

Why it matters:

• Verstappen is a three‑time champion and F1’s top draw; his exit would dent TV ratings, sponsorship and Red Bull’s dominance.
• The 2026 regulation overhaul has sparked driver unrest, raising questions about F1’s technical direction.
• Losing the champion could accelerate a talent shift to GT, IndyCar or other series, reshaping the driver market.

The details:

• Verstappen has publicly criticised the new cars in the opening rounds, saying they lack the feel he enjoys.
• Red Bull confirmed race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase will leave for McLaren in 2028, a move Patrese calls the final nail in the coffin.
• The FIA introduced a package of car tweaks before the Miami GP to address driver concerns; Patrese says Verstappen’s decision hinges on whether the changes restore his enjoyment.

What's next:

• Miami GP will test the tweaks; driver reaction will decide if Verstappen stays or looks elsewhere.