Red Bull adviser Helmut Marko insists Max Verstappen’s comments about an early retirement from F1 must be taken “seriously” after the Dutchman’s most recent remarks on the matter.
Over the Qatar Grand Prix weekend, the four-time F1 drivers’ champion has said he cannot see himself “hanging around” if the 2026 regulations overhaul is not sufficiently “fun” for him, having already achieved what he wanted to in F1 and more.
Speaking to PA, he said: “My contract runs until 2028, but it [Verstappen’s future] will depend on the new rules in 2026, and if they are nice and fun. If they are not fun, then I don’t really see myself hanging around.
“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.
“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.
“And in my mind, I know if I close the chapter, it is closed. I don’t see myself stopping and coming back. Once I stop, I really stop.”
When those words were put to Marko, the Austrian explained why Verstappen must be taken at face value, despite the 28-year-old being still some way off Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher in the F1 record books.
“It would be a rather early retirement for him,” the 82-year-old joked to Sky Sports Germany, before addressing the subject head-on: “Yes, it’s something to take seriously.
“He’s a person who needs to feel good and have fun. Max has already achieved so much and isn’t the type who wants to equal Schumacher’s and Hamilton’s records.
“I wouldn’t put it past him to come and say: ‘Thank you, that’s it.'”
Verstappen is clinging onto contention for a fifth consecutive crown, and will line up for the grand prix at the Lusail International Circuit in third.
Championship leader Lando Norris is second, behind Oscar Piastri in the other McLaren.
If the Briton, who is 25 points ahead of Verstappen, outscores the Red Bull driver by a single point in the 57-lap race, the 69-time grand prix winner’s challenge will be over before the paddock reaches Abu Dhabi for the season finale.
