Max Verstappen names 'negative' factor to trigger bombshell F1 exit

Max Verstappen has described how a "negative" experience with F1's new rules package could force a bombshell exit from F1.

Verstappen is currently secure with Red Bull until the end of 2028, but his long-term future beyond this has been called into question.

The four-time world champion has stated he will not race into his late 30s or early 40s like Fernando Alonso or Lewis Hamilton, with the Red Bull driver due to turn 29 in 2026. 

Red Bull is embarking on a bold new era in 2026, by producing its own in-house power units for the first time, with boss Laurent Mekies indicating that, at the beginning of the year, the team could "struggle."

Explaining his thinking, Verstappen detailed how he was "relaxed" about the situation. 

"A crucial year? Yes, actually," Verstappen told de Telegraaf.

"I do think that of all the people around me, I am the most relaxed about it. I'll manage. It will work out in the end. 

"Whether there's a chance I'll stop completely, even before 2029, if I don't like the rules? Well, then it must all turn out very negatively."

Despite this, the Dutchman is eager to continue with Red Bull and see out his contract, which is due to expire after the 2028 season. 

"That is the goal, I have always expressed that," he said.

"I get along very well with everyone at Red Bull. That is very important to me. 

"I've also always indicated that many things have to coincide, and I'm not just talking about Formula 1," which is a reference to his GT3 racing team, including testing at Portimao in a Mercedes.

"Now, of course, I would have preferred to still be at home. I flew straight from Portimão, where I tested my race team's Mercedes GT3, to Detroit," he said.

"It's all a bit hectic, but it's part of the job."