Stefano Domenicali predicts Max Verstappen will remain in Formula 1 despite growing speculation over his future – Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali believes Max Verstappen has no intention of walking away from the sport despite months of speculation surrounding his future.
Speaking after another difficult period for Red Bull, Domenicali said he expects the four-time world champion to remain in Formula 1, insisting Verstappen’s passion for racing remains stronger than any frustrations with the current competitive landscape.
Verstappen’s future has become one of the biggest talking points of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Red Bull’s struggles to consistently challenge at the front, combined with the Dutchman’s public criticism of the sport’s upcoming regulations, have fuelled repeated speculation over whether he could one day step away from Formula 1 before the end of his career.
Stefano Domenicali backs Verstappen to stay in Formula 1
Despite the persistent rumours, Domenicali is confident Verstappen’s future still lies on the Formula 1 grid.
Speaking to Formula1.com, the Formula 1 CEO praised the Red Bull driver and highlighted the strong relationship they have developed over the years.
“Max is an incredible driver. He loves Formula 1. I have an excellent relationship with him.”
Domenicali then offered his own prediction on Verstappen’s future.
“In my opinion, Max will stay with us, and I really hope so.”
While careful not to speak on Verstappen’s behalf, the Formula 1 chief made it clear that he expects the Dutchman to remain one of the championship’s headline stars for years to come.
Verstappen’s frustrations have fuelled retirement rumours
Verstappen has competed in Formula 1 since making his debut in 2015 and has established himself as one of the most successful drivers in modern history, winning four consecutive world championships.
However, the current campaign has been significantly more challenging than the dominant years Red Bull previously enjoyed.
The Dutchman has openly questioned aspects of Formula 1’s incoming technical regulations and has voiced frustration at Red Bull’s inability to consistently fight at the front. Sitting sixth in the drivers’ championship is a position far below the standards Verstappen and Red Bull have set over the past several seasons.
Those factors have inevitably led to renewed speculation that Verstappen could eventually decide to pursue other racing categories or even retire earlier than expected.
Budapest comments offered reassurance
Ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, Verstappen addressed the speculation directly, acknowledging that leaving Formula 1 would ultimately be his own decision while making it clear that his love of racing remains unchanged.
“I mean, of course I could quit at any time, that wouldn’t be a problem, but I love racing,” Verstappen said in Budapest.
Those comments were widely interpreted as a reassuring sign that, despite his frustrations, he remains committed to competing at the highest level of motorsport.
Verstappen remains among the sport’s most recognisable figures globally, and Domenicali’s public confidence reflects the importance of keeping one of the grid’s biggest attractions involved as Formula 1 prepares to enter a new technical era.
Whether Red Bull can provide Verstappen with a car capable of returning to regular victories may ultimately prove the biggest factor in determining how long the partnership continues, but for now, both the Formula 1 CEO and Verstappen himself appear to believe there is still plenty of racing left to come.
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