F1 Star Max Verstappen Considers Retirement at 28

Dominant driver from 2021-2024 struggles with regulation changes and lack of enjoyment in the sport.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 8:03pm

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Max Verstappen, the former dominant Formula 1 driver who won multiple world championships from 2021-2024, has suggested he is considering retirement at the age of 28. Verstappen has struggled in the 2025 and 2026 seasons, finishing second in the standings last year and currently sitting outside the top 5 this season. He cited a lack of enjoyment in the sport due to the new regulations and his inability to compete at the front of the field.

Why it matters

Verstappen's potential retirement would be a major shakeup in the world of Formula 1, as he has been one of the sport's biggest stars over the past several years. His departure could open the door for a new generation of drivers to rise to prominence and would leave a significant void in the Red Bull Racing team.

The details

After finishing eighth in the Japanese Grand Prix, Verstappen told the BBC that he was contemplating retirement, saying 'You also wait for 24 races. This time it's 22. But normally 24. And then you just think about is it worth it? Or do I enjoy being more at home with my family? Seeing my friends more when you're not enjoying your sport?' Verstappen made clear he was suggesting the 2026 season could be his last, citing a lack of enjoyment in the new regulations that have made it difficult for him to compete at the front of the field.

  • Verstappen won multiple world championships from 2021 to 2024.
  • Verstappen finished second in the 2025 drivers' standings.
  • Verstappen is currently outside the top 5 in the 2026 season.

The players

Max Verstappen

A 28-year-old Dutch Formula 1 driver who was previously one of the most dominant drivers in the sport, winning multiple world championships from 2021-2024 before struggling in the 2025 and 2026 seasons.

Lando Norris

A British Formula 1 driver who won the 2025 drivers' championship, defeating Verstappen.

Red Bull Racing

The Formula 1 team that Verstappen has driven for since 2016, where he has found great success.

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What they’re saying

“'Privately I'm very happy. You also wait for 24 races. This time it's 22. But normally 24. And then you just think about is it worth it? Or do I enjoy being more at home with my family? Seeing my friends more when you're not enjoying your sport?'”

— Max Verstappen, Formula 1 Driver

“'I want to be here to have fun and have a great time and enjoy myself. At the moment that's not really the case. Of course I do enjoy certain aspects. I enjoy working with my team. It's like a second family. But once I sit in the car it's not the most enjoyable unfortunately. I'm trying. I keep telling myself every day to try and enjoy it. It's just very hard.'”

— Max Verstappen, Formula 1 Driver

What’s next

The next Formula 1 race is scheduled for May 3 in Miami, Florida. It remains to be seen if Verstappen will compete in that event or if he will make any further announcements about his future in the sport.

The takeaway

Verstappen's potential retirement at just 28 years old would be a major loss for Formula 1, as he has been one of the sport's biggest stars over the past several years. His struggles with the new regulations and lack of enjoyment in the sport highlight the challenges drivers can face, even at the peak of their careers.