Following an eighth-place finish at the Japanese Grand Prix, which saw Andrea Kimi Antonelli claim victory after an incident involving Oliver Bearman, four-time world champion Max Verstappen now sits ninth in the overall standings, sixty points behind Antonelli. This outcome severely jeopardizes his championship aspirations, a year after he narrowly missed the title by just two points.
Verstappen expressed his acceptance of mid-pack finishes. He stated he is “very realistic” about not always being able to contend for a podium, having experienced less successful periods in F1 before. However, his primary concern is the lack of enjoyment he currently feels.
“When you’re in P7 or P8 and you’re not enjoying the fundamental aspects of current Formula 1, it doesn’t feel natural for a racing driver,” he explained. “I try to adapt, but the way you have to race isn’t enjoyable. It’s truly ‘anti-driving.’ At some point, it’s simply not what I want to do anymore.”
He added that while F1 offers substantial income, money is no longer the main motivator. “At the end of the day, it’s no longer about money because it has always been my passion.”
When asked about his future in F1, Verstappen confirmed he is contemplating “everything.” He questions whether “it’s worth it,” or if he would prefer to spend more time at home with family and friends, especially when he’s no longer enjoying his sport. He appreciates certain aspects, such as working with the team, which he considers a “second family,” but his feelings change dramatically once he gets into the car.
Verstappen’s Vision for Motorsport’s Future
At 28, Verstappen has consistently criticized the hybrid engine regulations, which demand frequent battery recharging per lap. While these rules aim to make races more spectacular for viewers, many drivers and fans argue they deviate from “pure driving.”
The driver also expressed keen interest in other motorsport categories, particularly sportscar and endurance racing. If the current situation persists, Max Verstappen’s short-term future in Formula 1 could be uncertain.