Max Verstappen has made it clear that he is not aiming to pursue the Formula 1 challenge posed by legends such as Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher. Speaking about his ambitions, the Dutch driver emphasized that his priorities lie elsewhere, despite being recognized as one of the sport’s all-time greats at just 28 years old with four world titles to his name. Hamilton and Schumacher, each holding seven world championships, remain ahead of Verstappen, alongside Juan Manuel Fangio.
During an interview with Blick, Verstappen was asked whether he saw any comparisons with Schumacher, specifically highlighting that the German won 72 races with Ferrari, while Verstappen had 71 wins for Red Bull so far.
Although the question did not directly mention Hamilton, Verstappen stated his lack of interest in chasing the seven-time world champion record held by Hamilton and Schumacher.
“Yes, on the track and in my private life. But after more than 230 races, my goal is definitely not to chase seven world championship titles,”
Verstappen explained.
He further added,
“For me, there is nothing more important than my family and my children. They are the motivation that you can only get within your own four walls.”
Verstappen’s Focus Beyond Racing and His Future Plans
Last year, Verstappen became a father to daughter Lily with his partner Kelly Piquet and also serves as stepfather to Piquet’s child Penelope, whose biological father is former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat. Beyond his immediate family, Verstappen is close to his extended relatives, including being an uncle to his sister Victoria’s three children: Luka, Lio, and Hailey.
In the same interview, Verstappen confirmed that he has no intention of extending his racing career into his 40s and plans to honour his current contract with Red Bull through the end of 2028.
“I’m 28 now and have a contract with Red Bull until 2028. I intend to fulfil it. At this point, I’m ruling out a team change. It’s a shame that I won’t have my friend and mentor Helmut Marko by my side in 2026. I’ll miss him.”
When the interviewer suggested he might not still be involved in the paddock at 40, Verstappen responded confidently:
“You can bet on it. At 40, I might still be standing in the pits as a team principal in another series.”
The Significance of Verstappen’s Career Outlook
Verstappen’s comments underline a thoughtful approach to balancing racing success with personal life priorities, signaling a shift in focus away from merely breaking records. His decision to remain with Red Bull until 2028 reflects stability amidst an intense competitive environment, while his indication toward a future role as a team principal suggests he plans to stay influential within motorsport beyond his driving years. As he enters the prime of his career, Verstappen’s perspective could shape how top-tier drivers approach legacy and longevity in Formula 1.
