Verstappen drops biggest hint yet over F1 exit amid Nürburgring debut

Max Verstappen has dropped his clearest hint yet that he may leave Formula 1 before his contract expires, admitting he is "taking my time" on his long-term future. The four-time world champion also revealed he spent none of the enforced break thinking about F1, as he prepares for his Nürburgring 24-hour debut this weekend.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's repeated criticism of the 2026 regulations and his willingness to pursue other racing interests suggest he could walk away from F1 sooner than many expect. His comments come amid ongoing tensions over rule changes and a growing sense that he may not follow the long careers of Alonso and Hamilton.

The details:

• Verstappen is contracted to Red Bull until 2028 but has consistently said he won't stay as long as his peers.
• He described the 2026 rules as "anti-racing" and "Mario Kart," and said recent tweaks are "a tickle" that won't "change the world."
• This weekend he will race in the Nürburgring 24-hour event with Verstappen Racing, driving a Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo alongside Jules Gounon, Dani Juncadella, and Lucas Auer.
• He noted that discussions with F1 and FIA were positive but emphasized that driver input needs to increase for the future. "Maybe I'm not here anymore," he said.

What's next:

• Further rule changes for 2027 have been announced, but Verstappen remains skeptical.
• His Nürburgring debut is seen by many as a sign he is exploring life beyond F1.
• With no clear timeline, Verstappen is in no rush to decide, but the hints are getting louder.