Whispers from behind the scenes have emerged suggesting that Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 World Champion, might consider taking a break from the sport in 2026.
According to BBC’s F1 correspondent Andrew Benson, a confidante of Verstappen hinted at this possibility without prompting. This revelation coincides with ongoing talks about Verstappen’s future with Red Bull, as discussions flare around his performance-related contract clause.
The Dutch driver, holding third in the current F1 standings after one win from the first four races of 2025, might activate this clause should he drift outside the top three. Speculation intensifies after Red Bull team principal Christian Horner confirmed such a clause exists, allowing Verstappen to leave before the contract’s expiration in 2028, if his performance dips significantly.
Helmut Marko, a senior advisor at Red Bull, anticipates that Verstappen’s contract clause will become a focal point around the summer break. Despite Verstappen’s public reaffirmation of his dedication to Red Bull, rumors persist about a $300 million offer from Aston Martin and a potential link to Mercedes.
Andrew Benson, in a recent BBC podcast, elaborated on the scenario where Verstappen could sit out the forthcoming season. With major changes in chassis and engine regulations on the horizon for 2026, Verstappen might opt to bide his time, assess the new landscape, and strategically plan his return in 2027.
Benson mused about Verstappen’s possible motivations, noting that this information was volunteered to him, adding weight to the idea of a sabbatical rather than dismissing it as mere gossip. Given Verstappen’s competitive nature, viewers are left contemplating whether such a move aims to stir up attention or represents a calculated strategy.
While Max Verstappen remains in contention for the 2025 title, the potential pause in 2026 presents an intriguing narrative twist, leaving fans eagerly watching his next move.
