Red Bull’s difficulties are only part of the problem: the real issue for Max Verstappen is his relationship with Formula 1
Whether it’s down to a Red Bull team that’s falling well short of expectations, or a set of regulations he’s still struggling to come to terms with, today’s Max Verstappen is a very different driver from the one we’re used to. Qualifying at Suzuka has once again ended in disappointment, in line with his recent performances, but the result seems to be becoming less and less of a priority. Comments gathered by The Race in the mixed zone paint a picture of an impatient driver who no longer hides his desire to openly assess his future in Formula 1.
Formula 1 today and tomorrow
“I’m not even frustrated anymore. I’ve got past that stage, so it’s a bit… I don’t know what the right word is in English. To be honest, I don’t know what to think. I’m probably lost for words. I just can’t. . I don’t get angry anymore, I don’t get disappointed anymore, and I don’t get frustrated anymore about what’s going on“.
It is no secret that Verstappen has never been keen on the new regulations, nor is it a secret that the relationship between the four-time world champion and Formula 1 is now at an all-time low. The apathy with which he reflects on yet another difficult day is the clearest sign that he is gradually giving serious thought to his future in the sport.
When asked whether Red Bull might turn things around after a difficult start, Verstappen replied: “The team will be trying something out over the next few weeks. As for the rest, you already know where I stand; there’s no need for me to repeat myself. There are still many things I need to figure out for myself about life here“.
These words go beyond Red Bull’s current technical situation and prompt a much broader reflection. Verstappen’s future in Formula 1 depends not only on the competitiveness of the car, but now more than ever on the quality of the overall experience.
The crux of the matter remains the regulations. The direction the sport has taken has completely transformed the way the car is driven. It is no longer simply a question of adapting to the new rules, but of compatibility with a driving style that poses difficulties for most of the drivers on the grid.
In this context, Verstappen’s outspoken nature has made him the system’s most vocal critic, even at the cost of exposing himself to media scrutiny. This discontent is not a one-off occurrence and, as is often the case in such situations, even a minor trigger is enough to bring to the surface tensions that were already present, as was the case with his clash with the Guardian journalist.
The future and the exit clause
Verstappen’s contract remains valid until 2028, but the feeling is that a review will be brought forward. The possibility of him leaving at the end of 2026, linked to a clause in his agreement with the Milton Keynes-based team, is no longer a remote prospect. Much will depend on the direction Formula 1 takes in the coming years and its ability to address a set of regulations that continues to divide drivers and industry insiders.
Because the issue is now clear. It is not about winning, or adding further titles to an already extraordinary record, but about deciding whether it still makes sense to carry on under these circumstances. And today, for Verstappen, the answer no longer seems so obvious.
Photo: Oracle Red Bull Racing
