Wolff expresses hope that Verstappen will stay, as the Dutch driver contemplates his future.

Wolff expresses hope that Verstappen will stay, as the Dutch driver contemplates his future.

      Toto Wolff acknowledges his desire for Max Verstappen to remain in Formula 1, as there are increasing indications that the Dutch driver is losing his motivation. The four-time world champion appeared extremely dejected after qualifying at Suzuka, where Red Bull’s difficulties and Verstappen’s dissatisfaction with the 2026 regulations are intensifying.

      "I am not even frustrated anymore. I am beyond that," Verstappen expressed. "I can’t find the right word in English for how I feel. I don’t know it in Dutch either. There is no suitable word. There are many things for me personally to figure out."

      When asked to clarify his feelings, Verstappen provided a revealing answer: "Life ... life here."

      These remarks come as Verstappen faces two significant challenges: discontent with the energy-intensive new regulations and a Red Bull car that is currently uncompetitive. Wolff, speaking to Sky Deutschland, commented that the situation is comprehensible. "Max is undoubtedly an emotional person. For him, the key aspect is the joy of driving. I can easily see that he might not be experiencing that at the moment. It would be unfortunate if we were to lose Max from Formula 1 altogether, but we are satisfied with our two drivers and have no plans to make any changes."

      Verstappen also indicated that his future might hinge on how the sport develops. "A lot depends on the decisions made for next year," he stated. "When I’m in the car, I want to give it my all, but in the current Formula 1, I can’t do that and I do not enjoy it. Being away from home for so long makes me hope to find joy in what I am doing."

      While he continues to seek enjoyment in GT racing, Verstappen suggested that even that might not be sufficient in the long run. "Yes, I will try to find joy in racing through other avenues," he noted, nearly confirming his participation at the Nordschleife before the next grand prix in Miami. "But after a while, even that won’t be enough."

      Verstappen also commented on the media incident at Suzuka, justifying his choice to remove a journalist from his press session. "If you don’t give me respect, why should I respect you?" he remarked. "I’ve been in Formula 1 long enough to recognize who has good intentions and who doesn’t. If you laugh at me like that, it’s clear you lack good intentions."

      With Red Bull struggling and the regulations continuing to spark debate, Verstappen cautioned that the season could become lengthy for him without progress. "I hope the month-long break before Miami brings about change. If things continue as they are, the season is going to feel very long with the problems we face."

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Wolff expresses hope that Verstappen will stay, as the Dutch driver contemplates his future.

Formula 1 | Toto Wolff acknowledges his hope that Max Verstappen does not leave Formula 1, as there are increasing indications that the Dutch driver is becoming less motivated. The (…)