Shock for F1: Max Verstappen is considering retirement
At 28, Max Verstappen is still far from being the oldest active Formula 1 driver—Fernando Alonso is 44—but the Dutchman of Belgian descent could soon retire. After finishing eighth in Japan, the four-time champion made it clear through his comments that he is unhappy with the rule changes and the current state of Formula 1. However, Dutch outlet De Telegraaf went a step further, reporting that Verstappen is seriously considering ending his driving career at the end of the season.🚨 𝗡𝗘𝗪: F1 driver Max Verstappen (28) has announced he is considering RETIRING from F1 this year, while being in his prime.This is like Kylian Mbappé considering retirement at the end of this season. pic.twitter.com/3xlkzNn61W— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) March 29, 2026 Verstappen has experienced a lot since making his debut at 17 in a Toro Rosso car. This year marks his tenth season with Red Bull Racing, with whom he has won four titles—almost five. He claimed championships consecutively in 2021, 2022, 2023..