Should Ferrari keep an eye on Max Verstappen's F1 future?

Max Verstappen's recent admission that he is considering walking away from Formula 1 at the end of 2026 has sent shockwaves through the paddock, and Ferrari would be wise to monitor the situation closely.

The four-time world champion's frustrations with the current regulations have intensified in recent weeks. 

Following his eighth-place finish at the Japanese Grand Prix in March, Verstappen told the BBC he is "no longer enjoying the sport," stating: "When you are in P7 or P8 and you are not enjoying the whole formula behind it, it doesn't feel natural to a racing driver."

His discontent centres on the 2026 regulations which have seen a power unit introduced featuring a 50/50 split between electrical power and internal combustion, rather than Red Bull's competitive struggles. 

"I can accept being in P7 or P8," Verstappen clarified, "but when you're there and not enjoying the whole formula behind it, it doesn't feel natural to a racing driver. It's not nice the way you have to race. It's really anti-driving."

Verstappen's contract with Red Bull runs through 2028 but contains performance-related exit clauses. 

When asked if he could leave before then, he responded: "That's what I'm saying. I'm thinking about everything inside this paddock."

Lambiase departure adds uncertainty

Compounding the uncertainty is the departure of Gianpiero Lambiase, Verstappen's race engineer since 2016. Red Bull confirmed Lambiase will join McLaren as chief racing officer when his contract expires in 2028.

The timing is significant. In 2021, Verstappen told Viaplay: "I told him that I only work with him. As soon as he quits, I'll quit too." 

Though his father Jos believes Max will "just continue," the loss of his long-time collaborator adds another variable to Verstappen's future calculations.

Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari contract potentially extends to the end of 2027 with a unilateral option, according to reports. Should the 41-year-old step aside earlier, Ferrari would face a crucial decision.

While Oliver Bearman has impressed for Haas, currently sitting seventh in the championship with 17 points from three races, the chance to sign a four-time champion in his prime would be difficult to ignore, particularly one who previously stated he "cannot rule out a move to Ferrari."