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Four-time Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen could be preparing for a dramatic exit from the sport as early as 2025, according to a bold claim made by a former Red Bull mechanic. Despite being under contract with Red Bull until 2028, the Dutch sensation may hang up his racing gloves after securing what would be his fifth consecutive world title.
Max Verstappen’s possible exit tied to a fifth championship
In a recent appearance on Lucas Stewart’s YouTube channel, former Red Bull mechanic Calum Nicholas suggested that Verstappen is likely to clinch the 2025 Drivers’ Championship and then walk away from the sport entirely.
“Five. I think Max is going to win the Drivers' this year, and then I think he's going to call it a day,” Nicholas predicted.
Although Nicholas was clear that he had no inside information on Max Verstappen’s plans, his comments have fueled growing speculation about the 27-year-old’s long-term future.
Contractual loopholes and looming regulation changes
Verstappen currently earns a staggering £60 million annually at Red Bull and is contractually tied to the team until 2028. However, his deal includes opt-out clauses—a key factor in the ongoing debate around his potential departure.
The incoming regulation changes for 2026 are seen as a critical inflection point. Sources close to Verstappen say he may wait to assess how Red Bull adapts to the new rules before committing to the final years of his contract.
While Mercedes and Aston Martin have previously been linked as possible destinations, insiders believe that if Max Verstappen ever changes teams, he’ll do it only once.
A slower start to 2025 and rising rivals
The 2025 season has been far from smooth for the reigning champion. After a penalty at the Spanish Grand Prix saw him slip from P5 to P10, Verstappen now trails championship leader Oscar Piastri by 49 points.
However, Nicholas remained confident in Verstappen’s dominance:
“To not back Max is just like lunacy, I think. The guy is just really really good. Not just in terms of his technical skill and his talent, but I've watched Max grow into this guy that can do everything. He does everything well now.”
Fatherhood and focus
Max Verstappen’s personal life also entered a new chapter this year with the birth of his daughter Lily, his first child with partner Kelly Piquet.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, the Dutchman wrote:
“Welcome to the world, sweet Lily. Our hearts are fuller than ever—you are our greatest gift. We love you so much.”
While some may question whether fatherhood might shift his focus, his competitors don't think so.
Lewis Hamilton offered his congratulations and dismissed any concerns about Verstappen’s competitiveness:
“It’s such an amazing, special thing. I spoke to him briefly in Saudi and saw how excited he was. Big congrats to him.”
Whether it’s the pressure of retaining dominance, the burden of new regulations, or the desire to prioritize family, signs suggest that Max Verstappen’s time in Formula 1 may be closer to the end than most fans anticipated. As one of the most gifted drivers of his generation, his potential early departure would mark a seismic shift in the F1 landscape.
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