Following Max Verstappen's remarks during the Japanese Grand Prix weekend, it is worth reflecting on his status in Formula 1. He has been F1’s best driver since the 2021 season, winning his first championship in dramatic fashion in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix five years ago.
The Dutchman proceeded to win the next three championships in a row, with his streak ending when he fell just two points shy of Lando Norris a year ago.
In the past, the four-time world champion has expressed interest an earlier retirement from Formula 1 to pursue his interests in other racing series. Over the past 15 months or so, we have seen Verstappen participate in multiple GT3 events and even some race weekends.
But the 28-year-old’s recent remarks at Suzuka Circuit suggested that he could step away from F1 upon the conclusion of the 2026 season. Verstappen’s reasoning alluded to a loss of enjoyment in racing, particularly due to the new regulations. He also desires to spend more time with his family.
An early Verstappen retirement would harm F1 for many years
Verstappen has been at the pinnacle of F1 for several years now, battling Lewis Hamilton and dominating the ground effect era. The Dutch driver is arguably the face of the sport and has one of the biggest fanbases worldwide.
Retiring from the sport at such a young age, especially tied to the shortcomings of the current regulations, would be the reflection of a massive blunder from the FIA and FOM. Watching someone who has already cemented himself as one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers in history would send shockwaves.
Within minutes, there would be a severe loss of viewership of Formula 1 through local channels, F1 TV, Apple TV, and even Netflix’s Drive to Survive. Soon after, ticket and merchandise sales would also begin to fall. It would take a few years for F1 to recover to a similar level, and it would be a major setback to the future plans of Stefano Domenicali.
If Verstappen actually retires because of a failure to adjust the current regulations, something dozens of other drivers have also been pushing for, the FIA and Mohammed Ben Sulayem would likely face extreme levels of criticism. It would be a near certainty that regulations would be altered as a result, but by then, it might be too late.
While the more likely scenario is still that Verstappen will be back in 2027, this is a situation to keep an eye on throughout the 22-race season. He could very well be added to the list of several extremely talented athletes who chose to retire at a young age.