Max Verstappen causes division over F1 future

What Max Verstappen's next career move is a hotly debated matter in F1, with the Red Bull driver's future the subject of intrigue and anxiety.

Recent driver silly seasons have shown that the four-time F1 drivers' champion holds the key to the market, even though he is contracted to the Milton Keynes-based squad until the end of 2028.

Whilst he has committed his immediate future to the six-time constructors' champion, Mercedes, and even Aston Martin remain very real possibilities for the 71-time grand prix winner — and, truth be told, he would likely have the pick of almost the entire paddock if he did make himself available.

The Dutchman has also been vocal about the fact that becoming the most decorated F1 driver of all time is not a primary interest of his, and that he has ambition in motorsport that is further afield, something he has demonstrated with his GT3 exploits and love of sim racing.

He has long maintained that his next contract in F1 will be his last; whether that means a new deal for 2029 onwards, or jumping to a new team before that, it remains to be seen.

Then there's the potential that he hates the new F1 regulations so much that he decides to walk away. Although he has ruled out a sabbatical quite emphatically.

Despite that, in a recent poll conducted by RacingNews365, almost 10 per cent of respondents felt his next move will be to emulate Niki Lauda, Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso by leaving and then returning.

However, whether he will ultimately retire (for good), stay with Red Bull or join another team is much more evenly split amongst F1 fans.

Check out the full results of the latest poll by RacingNews365 below!