BREAKING: New Twist in Max Verstappen’s Future as Insider S…read more
Fresh Twist in Max Verstappen’s Future as 2026 Sabbatical Suggested by Insider
Max Verstappen’s future in Formula 1 has taken another surprising turn, with talk emerging that the reigning World Champion may consider stepping away from the sport in 2026. The possibility of a sabbatical has been suggested amid growing speculation about his time with Red Bull Racing.
This latest development gained momentum during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend, as BBC journalist Andrew Benson revealed that Verstappen could be open to taking a break from F1 next year.
“One of the most fascinating rumours going around right now is that Max might take a sabbatical in 2026 to observe how the new regulations shake out before deciding where to go in 2027,” Benson said on the Chequered Flag podcast. “Someone close to Verstappen brought this up to me, and I hadn’t even asked about it.”
The idea would give Verstappen the chance to evaluate the impact of Formula 1’s major regulation overhaul in 2026, which includes new engine and chassis rules. With the competitive hierarchy likely to shift, a year on the sidelines could give him a strategic advantage when choosing his next team.
Personal reasons may also play a part his partner, Kelly Piquet, is currently pregnant, and a break could allow Verstappen to spend time with his growing family.
Taking time out from F1 isn’t unprecedented. Icons like Michael Schumacher, Kimi Raikkonen, and Fernando Alonso have all taken breaks from the sport and made successful comebacks.
Verstappen’s growing frustration with Red Bull’s recent dip in performance has fueled speculation. After a disappointing sixth-place finish in Bahrain and an underwhelming showing in the early races, the Dutch driver’s hopes of a fifth straight title appear slim.
Comments from Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko after the Bahrain Grand Prix hinted at internal concern, admitting he feared Verstappen could leave if things didn’t improve.
Adding to the intrigue, Italian media have reported that Aston Martin is preparing a staggering €264 million three-year offer to try to lure Verstappen away.
Although Aston Martin might be an option, their recent inconsistency and current driver line-up—featuring Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll—pose questions. However, the team’s connection with Honda and potential ties to design legend Adrian Newey could be tempting for Verstappen.
Mercedes, another possible destination, seems content with its current roster, despite team boss Toto Wolff previously expressing interest in Verstappen as a replacement for the departing Lewis Hamilton.
While Verstappen has repeatedly stated his loyalty to Red Bull, he’s also made it clear that his priority is being in the fastest car. With McLaren’s resurgence and Red Bull’s struggles, his competitive edge may be pushing him to explore alternatives.
Verstappen is contracted through 2028, but his influence on his own future is considerable. Whether he stays, takes a break, or makes a switch, his next move will have major implications for the F1 grid.
