Max Verstappen considering retiring from F1 at end of 2026 - ESPN

Max Verstappen has said he is considering retiring from Formula 1 at the end of 2026, admitting he is «not enjoying the sport» after finishing eighth at the Japanese Grand Prix.

Verstappen, who has been fiercely critical of F1's controversial new regulations, made the comments to the BBC on the back of another disappointing weekend.

While he has frequently questioned his long-term future in the sport, this time the four-time world champion was responding to a direct question on whether he could walk away at the end of this season, two years before the end of his Red Bull contract.

«That's what I'm saying,» he said. «I'm thinking about everything inside this paddock.

»Privately I'm very happy. You also wait for 24 races. This time it's 22. But normally 24. And then you just think about is it worth it? Or do I enjoy being more at home with my family? Seeing my friends more when you're not enjoying your sport?"

The quotes follow a report from Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, usually very reliable on all things Verstappen, that he could sensationally quit the sport.

The newspaper reports «crucial weeks ahead,» referring to the month break from racing due to the canceled races in the Middle East.

ESPN has reached out to Red Bull for further comment.

Verstappen had another miserable weekend in Japan, eliminated in Q2 in qualifying before finishing eighth in the race.

However, he said his unhappiness is not to do with Red Bull's form, but the cars he previously linked to Mario Kart and labeled «anti-racing.»

«I can easily accept to be in P7 or P8 where I am,» he said. «Because I also know that you can't be dominating or be first or second or whatever, fighting for a podium every time. I'm very realistic in that and I've been there