‘I already have a lot of plans’ – Formula 1 racer Max Verstappen hints taking early retirement

Red Bull racing is currently at the top of their game when it comes to Formula 1 success. A lot of credit for the success could be given to the young Dutch sensation Max Verstappen along with Adrian Newey’s RB18 and RB19 being a huge factor. However, the 25-year-old has shocked the racing community after hinting that this could be his last deal with Red Bull.

The World Champion Verstappen has already got his sights on other pursuits, like sim racing and endurance racing, also including the 24 Hours of Le Mans on his radar. He may sign off from the racing world altogether after his current contract expires at the end of 2028.

“Yes, I am seriously thinking about it.” It’s a decision that could change the game for Red Bull Racing and the world of Formula 1, said Verstappen when asked about his retirement plans as quoted by FanNation.

‘I’m very lucky to drive a Formula 1 car’ – Verstappen

Verstappen feels that the number of races is becoming too much for him to handle. He said it despite his love for the sports and his position at the top of the game.

”I know I’m very lucky to drive a Formula 1 car. I can do what I want, but at some point it doesn’t matter.I already have a lot of plans for what I want to do. It’s also about quality of life. There are other things in life besides Formula 1. I have a contract until 2028 and after that I’ll see. I don’t want to spend my best years physically just in Formula 1. With the races multiplying, 23 or 24 a year is far too many, said Verstappen

Verstappen recently clinched his maiden season-opening win and first at the Sakhir circuit. He also led Sergio Perez home at the Red Bull one-two at the Bahrain Grand Prix. While the two-time champion Fernando Alonso ended up being in third place for Aston Martin .

It was also Alonso’s record increasing 356th race in Formula One in a career of 22 years, in Melbourne at the 2001 Australian Grand Prix.