What will be Verstappen's next step in F1?

As the consecutive three-times F1 drivers' champion and the current pre-eminent force in the series, Max Verstappen garners considerable attention.

By extension, so too does discussion over his future. Throughout this season, the Dutchman has been the subject of intense speculation.

Will he attempt to force a move away from Red Bull, which is increasingly becoming mired in issues, and how soon will he start looking to bow out of the championship altogether?

Recent controversies like the so-called 'Sweargate' have done little to quieten the latter question, and Verstappen himself has used the threat of retirement as a bargaining chip.

Now, with the 27-year-old admitting that the "next step" of his F1 career will be the last, it is time to weigh up his options.

Theoretically tied in with Red Bull until the end of 2028, there have been rumours that he may have certain exit clauses enshrined in that deal.

Whether there is any truth to that has done little to dampen the speculation linking him to Mercedes and Aston Martin.

However, an untimely retirement or maintaining the status quo with Red Bull cannot be discounted as completely viable options, either.

What do you think will be Verstappen's next move in his F1 career? Let us know by commenting or by voting below in the latest poll by RacingNews365.