While he’s contractually tethered to Red Bull until 2028 and has every intention to “stay at the top in F1,” as he shared with DAZN, Max Verstappen’s gaze is now drifting to horizons beyond the F1 circus.
The 26-year-old Dutchman, candid and reflective, noted, “I also have other passions.” Beyond the Grand Prix circuits, Verstappen harbors dreams of endurance racing and even venturing into team ownership, possibly in the realm of GT or touring cars.
In fact, Verstappen’s entrepreneurial spirit is already on display. He’s steering the Redline sim racing operation and backing young talents like Thierry Vermeulen, son of his manager Raymond, in DTM with a Verstappen.com-branded livery.
The achievements and accolades have brought a sense of contentment to Verstappen. “Probably now I am more at peace also due to the results,” he mused. For many, the journey begins with dreams of podiums, victories, and championships. For Verstappen, those boxes have been emphatically ticked. “I think my mission in F1 has already been completed,” he confessed. However, the flame of competition still burns bright. While he revels in the sport, he’s evolved both as a driver and an individual since his teen years. “Sometimes I still get angry, but it’s more because I don’t like losing,” he said.
Last week, Verstappen drew parallels between himself and F1 maestro Fernando Alonso. Alonso, even at 42, remains a formidable force on the track. While Verstappen respects and admires the Spaniard, he has no intentions of mirroring his longevity in the sport. “I won’t be in F1 at his age,” Verstappen stated decisively. Conversations with Alonso give him insights, but Verstappen is clear, “the logical thing is that I can’t last as long as him.”
