Max Verstappen, the 28-year-old four-time Formula 1 world champion, is contemplating a shift from driving to leadership roles beyond the racetrack. Already one of the most victorious drivers in F1 history, Verstappen is planning his career beyond racing, signaling an interest in becoming a team principal in motorsport after his driving days conclude. This intention highlights his focus on the “Max Verstappen future role” within the sport’s evolving landscape.
Red Bull Commitment and Upcoming Changes Shape Career Plans
Despite having a contract with Red Bull Racing through 2028, Verstappen remains certain about his near-term dedication to the team. He confirmed,
“I intend to fulfill it. At this point, I’m ruling out a team change.”
However, the next phase of his career is likely to be influenced by the sport’s significant regulation changes set for 2026, which could alter team dynamics and performance standards. Verstappen’s choices around this period will determine whether he remains at four titles—equaling Sebastian Vettel—or pushes toward the records held by Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton, each with seven world championships.
Emotional Impact of Mentor’s Departure during Critical Transition
Adding an emotional element to the competitive tension is the upcoming departure of Helmut Marko, Verstappen’s long-time mentor who will leave Red Bull in 2026. Verstappen expressed sorrow about this loss, saying,
“I’ll miss him,”
highlighting the strong personal connections that underpin his career journey.
Verstappen’s Forecast for His Racing and Leadership Future
Addressing his longevity in the intensely demanding F1 environment, Verstappen suggested he does not expect to race into his forties. He remarked,
“At 40, I might still be standing in the pits as a team principal in another series,”
and later added,
“I don’t see myself driving in Formula 1 until I’m 44. Even being in F1 at 34 would be too much.”
These comments show his awareness of the physical and mental toll a full F1 season—comprising 24 races—takes, indicating a desire to transition to a leadership role sooner rather than later.
Broader Interests and Life Beyond Formula 1
Outside of Formula 1, Verstappen has diversified his involvement in motorsport with success in GT racing, notably through his venture, Verstappen.com Racing, which secured victory in the 2025 GT World Challenge Europe Gold Cup. Additionally, he engages with sim racing and manages responsibilities as a family man. These interests reflect a broader vision for his future in motorsport that extends beyond the cockpit.
Next Steps in a Transformative Career
Max Verstappen’s plans signal a critical junction in his career trajectory, where top-level racing meets managerial ambition. As he approaches the end of his current driving contract and the significant 2026 rule overhaul, the motorsport community will watch closely to see how he balances his ambitions on and off the track. His potential move into a team principal position could reshape his legacy and influence the sport’s future beyond his racing achievements.
