The future of Max Verstappen remains a hot topic within Formula 1. With the introduction of new regulations in 2026, the four-time world champion has repeatedly hinted at doubts about his future in the sport. His Red Bull contract runs until the end of 2028, but this season he seems to be increasingly focusing on other disciplines. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, however, expects Verstappen to stay put for the time being.
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“Formula 1 is bigger than anyone,” Ben Sulayem told the press in Miami. “Presidents come and go, teams come and go, promoters come and go, drivers come and go,” said the Emirati, referring to Verstappen. In Florida, he had the chance to speak to the Dutchman personally: “I just met him and he was positive.” Ben Sulayem suggested that Verstappen’s criticism might stem from Red Bull’s current competitiveness. “If you suddenly stop winning, of course you make your voice heard – and I understand that. It’s part of the sport’s cycle. He has won four titles; what do you think others said about him then?”
Does Verstappen really want to leave?
The FIA president illustrated this with an example: “Toto (Wolff, ed.) now says: ‘Everyone is against me.’ Then I say: ‘Yes, but when Red Bull won everything, everyone was against Christian Horner.’ That’s how these things go. People shout all kinds of things, but the question is whether they really mean it. Of course, we will miss Verstappen if he leaves, but the sport goes on. So many stars and teams have come and gone, but Formula 1 will always exist – and so will the FIA.”
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Ben Sulayem – who describes himself as a ‘fan of Verstappen’s driving style’ – also praised the mental resilience of the Red Bull driver. “He doesn’t get distracted. He is strong, not only in his driving style but also mentally. But after what happened last year and this year, I feel he is expressing himself a bit more emphatically. But is what he says also what he really wants? I don’t think so.”
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