Damon Hill suggests Max Verstappen might require a hiatus from F1 following retirement concerns.
Former Formula 1 world champion Damon Hill has suggested that Max Verstappen take a hiatus from the sport following his candid remarks about possibly stepping away.
After the Japanese Grand Prix, which marked another setback in his 2026 season, Verstappen expressed that he is contemplating retirement at the end of the year due to his dissatisfaction with the new regulations and vehicles.
This decision would come two years prior to the conclusion of his contract with Red Bull, as Verstappen had previously indicated he would evaluate his future in 2028 instead of sooner.
Hill, the 1996 world champion, believes that the four-time title holder might benefit from a break.
“If you’re not enjoying what you’re doing, it’s best to stop and pursue something else,” Hill stated on the BBC. “Thereβs no obligation to continue.”
“Max isn’t required to stay in this role. Heβs also a new father and has been in the sport for quite some time. Eventually, the excitement can diminish. Perhaps he needs some time off.”
Verstappen has been vocally critical of the entirely new regulations for 2026, which emphasize the use of electrical power and have transformed the dynamics of racing, overtaking, and achieving speed.
The Dutch driver mentioned that he has had discussions with the FIA regarding possible adjustments and suggested on Sunday that these changes could encourage him to stay in the sport.
“They know what to do,” Verstappen remarked.
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However, Hill added: “If he is making these statements to gain some influence over the current situation, I don’t believe that will be effective.
“That strategy … people may simply respond with ‘Max, take a break, return when you’ve reflected on it.’
“You can’t always have your way.”
Formula 1 is currently experiencing a five-week pause between races due to the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix, with the next race scheduled in Miami from May 1-3.
Source: espn.com
