Max Verstappen confirms F1 future in doubt as he blasts new regulation | F1 | Sport
Max Verstappen has admitted that he is considering his future in Formula 1, following a troublesome start to the season. The four-time world champion has consistently expressed his disappointment with the FIA’s new rules and regulations regarding engines, explaining that he is “not enjoying the whole formula,” with Red Bull as a result.
And after a sub-par performance at the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday, in which he started in P11 and could only muster an eighth-place finish, Verstappen explained that he is “thinking” about his future in the sport. Speaking with BBC Sport, the 28-year-old said: “That’s what I’m saying. I’m thinking about everything inside this paddock.
“Privately I’m very happy. You also wait for 24 races. This time it’s 22. But normally 24. And then you just think about is it worth it? Or do I enjoy being more at home with my family? Seeing my friends more when you’re not enjoying your sport?”
Reflecting on the new F1 rules, meanwhile, the Dutch-Belgian added: “I can easily accept to be in P7 or P8 where I am. Because I also know that you can’t be dominating or be first or second or whatever, fighting for a podium every time.
“I’m very realistic in that and I’ve been there before. I’ve not only been winning in F1. But at the same time 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.
“Of course I try to adapt to it, but it’s not nice the way you have to race. It’s really anti-driving. Then at one point, yeah, it’s just not what I want to do. And of course you can look at it and make a lot of money. Great. But at the end of the day it’s not about money any more because this has always been my passion.”
Drilling in his discontent with the sport at present, Verstappen explained: “Of course I do enjoy certain aspects. I enjoy working with my team. It’s like a second family. But once I sit in the car it’s not the most enjoyable unfortunately. I’m trying. I keep telling myself every day to try and enjoy it. It’s just very hard.”
Verstappen also took to social media on Sunday afternoon to share a photograph of himself waving, writing: “Time for a break. Arigato,” in a cryptic upload.
