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After the conclusion of the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix, Max Verstappen shocked the fans across the world by revealing that he is considering stepping away from the sport, as he is not happy with Formula 1's "anti-driving" regulations. The Dutch racer revealed that it is getting tough to have a good time at racing because of the new rules.
Laurent Mekies stays optimistic on Max Verstappen
Meanwhile, Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies believes that the four-time world champion would not retire from the sport.
In a recent interaction, Mekies revealed that he and Max are not having any conversation regarding the retirement. He also said that the entire team is working hard to provide a fast car for Verstappen.
Mekies also noted that by giving a fast car to the Dutch driver would definitely change his mind, as he will again start enjoying himself.
"We are having zero discussions about those aspects. We have a lot of work to do. But I'm sure by the time we give him a fast car, he will be a much happier Max. And by the time we give him a car that he can push and make the difference with, he will also be a happier Max. So, honestly, 100% of our discussions right now, is that. And as per the regs, as you know, they are coming with some good aspects and more tricky aspects. And as a sport, with the other teams, we will meet in the break to see how we can tweak them to make things better," said Mekies.
Max Verstappen's nightmare 2026 F1 season
In the ongoing season, Max Verstappen got off to a challenging start, as he is sitting at ninth place in the Drivers' Championship with only 12 points.
The four-time World champion had to settle with a P6 finish in the Australian Grand Prix, and endured a late-race retirement (DNF) because of a mechanical failure at the Chinese Grand Prix. In the Japanese Grand Prix, Verstappen managed to get a P8 finish, as he struggled with battery deployment.
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