Red Bull consultant suggests a sabbatical for Verstappen.

      "I can envision Max taking a year off."

      Max Verstappen could potentially step away from Formula 1 at the conclusion of 2025, as suggested by a Red Bull consultant. Immediately after welcoming his baby daughter Lily and racing in Miami, the four-time world champion traveled to Germany’s Nurburgring, specifically to the famed and challenging Nordschleife layout.

      At the track, despite lacking a license to compete in that category, he got into the Verstappen.com Racing-branded Ferrari 296 GT3, which was prepared by Emil Frey Racing, for an official test session in the Nurburgring Langstrecken series (NLS). To keep the outing discreet, Verstappen’s car was officially registered under a pseudonym - Franz Hermann - although his presence quickly became known.

      Specialized media outlets report that the purpose of the test for the Red Bull driver was to work towards securing the necessary DMSB Permit Nordschleife, which would allow him to participate in events like the Nurburgring 24 Hours. According to former Alpha Tauri team principal Franz Tost, Verstappen was "immediately two seconds faster than everyone else" during a recent test in the same vehicle.

      Tost, who continues to serve as a consultant for Red Bull in F1, supports the idea that instead of moving to Mercedes or Aston Martin next year, the 27-year-old Verstappen might opt for a sabbatical from Formula 1. "I can see Max taking a year off to calmly observe which teams have successfully adapted to the new chassis regulations and engines from a technical standpoint," he told Sport1. "Then, he could return in 2027."

      Tost added, "One thing is clear - every team would want Max on their roster if given the chance. Firstly, because he significantly enhances any team’s performance. Secondly, to prevent competitors from having him."

      However, Verstappen himself downplays this notion as well as rumors about potentially activating a performance exit clause in his contract to leave Red Bull. "I have a contract until 2028," the Dutch driver stated, "and beyond that, it depends on the projects that come up and how appealing they are."

      Nonetheless, he acknowledges that he feels quite relaxed about what lies ahead. "After my first title, I stated that everything I achieve from now on is a bonus, and I still view it that way," Verstappen remarked. "I’ll continue as long as I enjoy it."