Four-time world champion Max Verstappen has confirmed he is seriously considering retiring from Formula 1 at the end of the 2026 season. Speaking to the BBC following his eighth-place finish at the Japanese Grand Prix, Verstappen stated he is 'not enjoying the sport' and is 'thinking about everything inside this paddock.' His comments follow a miserable weekend where he was eliminated in Q2 qualifying before finishing eighth in the race.

Verstappen's unhappiness stems from F1's controversial new regulations, which he has previously described as 'anti-racing' and 'anti-driving.' While he has long questioned his future, this time he directly addressed the possibility of leaving before the end of his current Red Bull contract, which runs until 2026. He admitted the grueling 24-race schedule is taking a toll, stating he now questions whether it's 'worth it' or if he can enjoy being home with his family more. 'Privately I'm very happy,' he said, 'but you wait for 24 races... and then you just think about is it worth it?'

Verstappen's comments follow a report from Dutch outlet De Telegraaf suggesting he could make a sensational exit. The newspaper noted 'crucial weeks ahead' due to the cancelled Middle East races creating a month-long break. Red Bull has yet to comment. Verstappen, 28, is currently third on F1's all-time race winners list with 71 victories, behind only Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher.