Amidst much speculation surrounding Max Verstappen’s future in Formula 1, the Dutch racer has now shed light on his forthcoming plans. Verstappen disclosed that he harbors little inclination to prolong his career in Formula 1 to match the tenure of Fernando Alonso.
Alonso, the current record holder for the most races entered and started, recently solidified his commitment to Aston Martin for a minimum of two more seasons.
With this extension, the two-time world champion will surpass the age of 45, marking a significant milestone as the first driver to compete in Formula 1 at such an age in over half a century.
Having debuted nine seasons ago at the tender age of 17, Verstappen has been vocal about his reservations regarding the trajectory of the sport. He particularly expressed discontent with the introduction of additional races and the alternative F1 Sprint format.
In light of these developments, Verstappen affirmed that it’s improbable for him to remain on the grid beyond the age of 45, a milestone he will reach in over 18 years.
“Fernando took a bit of time out [at the end of 2018], and then found his love again to be fully competitive in Formula 1,” he said.
“It’s very difficult to comment on these kind of things. I don’t think I will be here until I’m 45, but you never know.”
Speculation swirled around Fernando Alonso’s potential switch to Mercedes or a blockbuster move to Red Bull before he extended his contract with Aston Martin. However, Max Verstappen wasn’t surprised by Alonso’s decision to stay with Aston Martin.
“No [I’m not surprised], but I don’t have all the insights,” he stated. “They have a good relationship with each other as well and you don’t know what they’re talking about in the meantime and how the prospects are, so it’s very difficult for me to really comment about it.
“Clearly, they are very ambitious, they want to win in F1. He believes in the project so that it makes sense to sign.”
