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Max Verstappen

Max Verstappen casts fresh doubt over F1 future after first 2026 experience

Max Verstappen revealed last year that his F1 future could depend on how much he enjoys the new 2026 cars.

Verstappen Bahrain test day 2
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To news overview © XPBimages

Max Verstappen has cast fresh doubt over his F1 future after getting his first experience with the new-for-2026 challengers.

The cars this year have undergone significant change, both in the aerodynamic and power unit departments.

The electrical output of the cars is now equal to the combustion engine, creating a fresh challenge for the drivers who have a greater focus on how to harvest and deploy energy throughout the lap.

But for Verstappen, it is a process he feels does not belong in F1.

"As a driver, you adapt everywhere, so you just have to put up with it,” Verstappen told select media including RacingNews365

“But in my head that's not F1-worthy, that we have to drive like that.

“It doesn't make any sense at all, does it? So in certain corners on certain circuits, it is better to go a little slower in order to regain more energy for the straight.

“Sorry, but that belongs in Formula E.”

Verstappen has previously indicated he was not happy with the direction F1 was going, particularly with its expanding calendar and the inclusion of sprint races.

The 28-year-old has now stated his lack of enjoyment with the new cars may push him further towards the exit door.

“It doesn't matter if it's very complicated or not, I know I can do it anyway. That's not the problem either. It's just not fun to drive,” he said.

"If you have obviously already won and achieved everything, then it all really doesn't have to happen anymore. 

“There are lots of other fun things you can do. And that's also what I'm definitely going to do. 

“Maybe already this year and in the years to come. And this certainly doesn't help to continue for a very long time."

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F1 calendar 2026
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aus GP Australië 08 Mar 2026
chn GP China 15 Mar 2026
jpn GP Japan 29 Mar 2026
bhr GP Bahrein 12 Apr 2026
sau GP Saoedi-Arabië 19 Apr 2026
usa GP Miami 03 May 2026
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LIVE 2026 F1 Bahrain Pre-Season 1st Test - Day 3