Max Verstappen has revealed that his Formula 1 future hinges on the 2026 regulation updates and how much fun the next generation of cars are to drive.
The four-time World Champion has sustained one of the most dominant eras in the sport’s history, winning four consecutive titles between 2021 and 2024.
Despite not winning a fifth championship in 2025, Verstappen finished a mere two points behind Lando Norris, after ruling himself out of title contention midway through a difficult season.
As it stands, the Dutchman sits three titles away from Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher, who share the record with seven titles.
However, Verstappen insists that chasing numbers has never been his motivation. Thus, his F1 journey could come to an end next year if the regulations are harder to work with.
“My contract runs until 2028 but it [his future] will depend on the new rules in 2026, and if they are nice and fun,” Verstappen told PA.
“Winning seven titles is not on my mind.
“I know that there are three more years after this one, so it could be possible, but it is not something I need to do before I leave the sport. I can leave the sport easily tomorrow.”
Verstappen’s outlook on the future
The Dutchman has never been shy about voicing his opinions on where the sport is heading, particularly as F1 prepares for its most significant technical overhaul in more than a decade.
While he remains committed to Red Bull, Verstappen has repeatedly stressed that contractual obligations alone will not keep him on the grid if the racing no longer excites him.
“If they are not fun, then I don’t really see myself hanging around,” he added.
Alongside becoming a father in 2025, Verstappen has already begun exploring racing opportunities beyond F1, including competing in endurance and GT machinery.
Earlier this year, Verstappen claimed victory in a sports car race at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, further highlighting his desire to test himself across multiple disciplines.
According to Verstappen, walking away from F1 would not leave him short of fulfilment.
“I have a lot of other passions; other racing categories, I want to spend more time with the family, and live off my own schedule,” Verstappen said.
“And in my mind I know if I close the chapter, it is closed,” he added.
“I don’t see myself stopping and coming back. Once I stop, I really stop.”
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