Max Verstappen will spend the ‘coming weeks and months’ thinking about his future in Formula 1. The Dutchman already sowed doubt about his further career in the premier class after his disappointing qualifying at Suzuka, but confirms 24 hours later that he is indeed seriously considering whether he still wants to continue as a Formula 1 driver. ‘Life is not just about Formula 1’, says Verstappen soberly.
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Max Verstappen finished the Japanese GP in eighth place, behind former teammate Pierre Gasly. The Dutchman was able to make up three places after starting from P11, but the driving pleasure was once again lacking for the four-time world champion. Verstappen has expressed his criticism of the current Formula 1 regulations several times this season, and after qualifying at Suzuka, he also sowed doubt about his future in the premier class of motorsport. “I’m not even frustrated anymore, I’m long past that point. Honestly, I don’t know what else I can make of it,” he said stoically at the time.
A day later, the Dutchman is asked by Viaplay about these statements. “What exactly I want for the future, that’s what it’s about,” Verstappen explains, immediately making it clear that this concerns Formula 1. “It’s not about private life, but about here.” The Dutchman would like to use the spring break – the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix have been cancelled due to the war in the Middle East – to think. “The coming weeks, months, indeed,” he confirms.
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‘Life is not just about Formula 1’
Although Verstappen’s statements immediately caused a shocked reaction among those present, he remains sober about it himself. “Life goes on,” he continues. “Life is not just about Formula 1. There are several things I can do.” The world champion was then told that the premier class itself would prefer him to stay. “Then it has to remain fun,” Verstappen concludes.
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