Former Formula One driver Jacques Villeneuve recently expressed concerns about Max Verstappen’s growing frustration with the current state of F1, indicating it could prompt the Dutch driver to retire early. Speaking on the Red Flags Podcast with Matt Elisofon and Brian Muller, Villeneuve reflected on Verstappen’s mindset and what might lie ahead for the four-time world champion.
Villeneuve emphasized that while Verstappen remains deeply invested in racing, he might consider pursuing other interests beyond Formula One once his winning momentum slows. He said,
“Sometimes you need a little bit of a holiday, and you need to miss it to understand how amazing it is. But I have a feeling that Verstappen is very frustrated with modern F1, right? I mean, and he does have fun racing his other things. So, yeah. I don’t know.”
Continuing, Villeneuve speculated that Verstappen will keep chasing records as long as he can secure championships but may eventually contemplate branching out into different ventures
“As long as he can win championships, he will try and go for the records. But then maybe he’ll start thinking, okay, I can do something else and still enjoy myself, still love my craft, which is more than just F1.” he further added.
Max Verstappen has similarly voiced openness to early retirement in the past, with his career now entering its 11th season since debuting in 2015. Although currently contracted with Red Bull until 2028, Verstappen retains the option to activate an early exit clause or retire if he chooses.
Verstappen Reflects on His Career Accomplishments and Future Possibilities
Max Verstappen himself has recently commented on his racing journey, expressing a sense of fulfillment regarding his achievements in Formula One. He acknowledged that he has already reached many of his goals but is still motivated to win more.
“I’ve achieved everything I’ve wanted to achieve already in racing and Formula One. Do I want to win even more? For sure. Am I happy with how this season is going? No, but sometimes that is not in your control.”
Verstappen added that his initial motivation for joining Formula One was to perform for himself and those close to him, rather than focusing solely on amassing titles or shaping his legacy.
“I got into Formula One wanting to perform for myself and the people around me. Not to win seven or eight titles. It doesn’t matter how you’re remembered, at least not in my case,” he further added.
Throughout his career, Verstappen has secured four World Championship titles, achieved 65 race victories, stood on 117 podiums, and claimed 44 pole positions. He holds multiple records, including the most consecutive F1 wins (10), most wins in a single season (19), highest number of podiums in one season (21), and most consecutive poles (8).
Potential Impact on Formula One and Verstappen’s Legacy
The indication that Max Verstappen might retire early sends ripples through the F1 community, as his dominance and record-breaking performances have significantly shaped the modern era of the sport. Villeneuve’s insights highlight a critical tension between Verstappen’s passion for racing and his possible disenchantment with the current environment of Formula One.
If Verstappen chooses to step away sooner than expected, it could open the door for new rivalries and alter championship dynamics. Furthermore, his openness about seeking enjoyment beyond Formula One suggests a broader vision for his future that extends beyond racing, potentially impacting how drivers approach career longevity.
As Verstappen continues to weigh his options, fans and teams alike will be watching closely to see how his story unfolds amid his pursuit of more titles and personal satisfaction in the sport.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Max Verstappen: Who has the bigger net worth in 2025? Lewis Hamilton, with a net worth of $300 million, surpasses Max Verstappen’s $200 million. Hamilton’s wealth is from Formula 1 earnings, endorsements, smart investments, and properties.
A. Who has more wealth, Max Verstappen or Lewis Hamilton?
Q. What is Max Verstappen’s baby gender?
A. On May 2, Verstappen shared two pictures of his newborn daughter on Instagram, announcing her name as Lily. He wrote, “Welcome to the world, sweet Lily.”
Q. What gender is Max Verstappen’s kid?
A. Verstappen and Piquet have shared the news of their newborn daughter, Lily. They initially announced they were expecting before the 2024 season’s last race in Abu Dhabi. Lily is now a little sister to Piquet’s other daughter, Penelope.
Q. Who is Max Verstappen’s girlfriend’s baby daddy?
A. Before dating Verstappen, she was in a relationship with Daniil Kvyat, another F1 driver, and they had a daughter in 2019. Piquet and Verstappen shared the news of their first child, a daughter named Lily, being born on May 2. “Hello to the world, lovely Lily” was their warm welcome.
