Max Verstappen’s future with Red Bull and in Formula 1 is increasingly unclear, as rumors swirl about the Dutchman possibly leaving Milton Keynes amid the team’s declining performance. Recently becoming a father, Verstappen might also be contemplating a sabbatical or even a complete break from Formula 1. Former F1 world champion Damon Hill has weighed in on the 27-year-old’s potential departure, suggesting that Verstappen could step away if the team’s struggles persist.
Verstappen, a four-time world champion, has stated that he has achieved everything he set out to do in Formula 1, now racing mainly for enjoyment. However, Red Bull’s current difficulties have caused significant setbacks on the track, with the team unable to consistently challenge rivals for victories. With major regulation changes expected in 2026, which remain uncertain for many teams, there is speculation that Verstappen might take a sabbatical to carefully observe how the sport evolves before deciding his next move.
Damon Hill believes that Verstappen has amassed an impressive record of drivers’ titles and race wins throughout his career, granting him the freedom to consider time off after the 2025 season. Hill suggested that Verstappen could take a year or two away from racing to focus on his family and to evaluate which teams will emerge as strong contenders under the upcoming regulations. Given Verstappen’s exceptional talent and reputation, many teams would likely welcome him back even after a break.
Hill stated,
“He has won four world championships, he’s won god knows how many races, he could sit back this new regulation. Nobody knows what’s on the other side of the end of this season, what is going to happen. He could sit back next year and go, ‘Okay, I can see which way the future’s going to go for the next 10 years.’”
This reflects a practical perspective on Verstappen’s career choices amid an uncertain future for many Formula 1 teams.
According to Hill, this sabbatical option looks especially viable if Red Bull does not address its current performance issues. Despite dominating much of the ground-effect era, the team has experienced a sharp decline, raising questions about its ability to remain competitive. Hill emphasized that Verstappen is under no obligation to remain with Red Bull if they cannot restore a championship-winning standard before his contract expires.
“I’m saying it’s an option. If it’s unclear, and if Red Bull have not convinced him that they have the wherewithal to keep up the level of performance that he’s been used to, then why would he race for a team that’s not competitive? He doesn’t have to,”
Hill explained, highlighting the importance of sustained team performance to retain top drivers like Verstappen.
Max Verstappen’s Standing as a Generational Talent
Verstappen’s achievements underscore why he is regarded as a generational talent and among the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history. Even amid Red Bull’s struggles, his ability to maintain high-level performances under pressure reflects his exceptional skill. At 27, his wealth of experience and expertise make him a coveted asset for any team seeking a competitive edge and substantial improvement in race results.
Hill believes that even a hiatus would not diminish Verstappen’s dominance on the grid. His racing instincts and talent are such that he could return to top form after time away from the sport. This confidence in Verstappen’s abilities strengthens the notion that a sabbatical is a realistic and strategic option, rather than a permanent exit.
“He’s young enough, I think, to take it. It’s hard in this game, but someone like of his ability, he could take a year out and it would be like, no time has passed. He’d slot straight back in again,”
Hill remarked, underscoring the possibility of a swift and successful comeback.
Implications for Red Bull and Formula 1
Despite the speculation, Verstappen has publicly reaffirmed his commitment to Red Bull multiple times and is unlikely to depart before his contract concludes. Nevertheless, with other teams reportedly presenting lucrative offers, Verstappen’s loyalty could be tested if Red Bull fails to reverse its downward trajectory. The team faces mounting pressure to demonstrate progress and assure their star driver they can return to championship-winning form.
The potential sabbatical of Max Verstappen raises important questions about the competitive landscape of Formula 1 and how regulatory shifts might reshape team dynamics. Verstappen’s decision will not only impact Red Bull’s ambitions but could also influence driver market movements and the sport’s future hierarchy. For fans and stakeholders alike, these developments underscore a period of transition filled with uncertainty and strategic considerations.
As 2025 approaches, all eyes will remain on Red Bull’s performance improvements and Verstappen’s career choices, with the Dutchman’s next steps poised to shape the Formula 1 narrative for years to come.
