Following his three consecutive world titles, Max Verstappen’s retirement from competition is already being discussed.
Max Verstappen intends to beat the world title record held by Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher, thus he won’t be retiring from Formula 1.
According to Johnny Herbert, a former racer, Verstappen is unlikely to retire early even though he has stated that he will not compete into his late 30s as Hamilton did. After winning 19 of 22 races and dominating the 2023 season, Verstappen, 26, won his third world championship.
Verstappen is currently four titles behind Hamilton and Schumacher, who each won seven throughout their respective careers, after winning three in a row. Furthermore, Herbert believes Verstappen will continue to be a winning machine and not give up anytime soon.
Herbert stated, “I don’t think he’s going to bow out early.” That’s just him developing and growing up and realizing that life exists outside of the Formula One bubble. I believe that winning is the core of his entire attitude and mindset.
He might race his father in Le Mans. His primary concentration is and will be Formula One, but he is realizing that there are other ways to enjoy life without living in a bubble. Perhaps he is beginning to think about his relatives.”
Despite turning 39 in January, Hamilton finished third for Mercedes this season and has no intention of quitting racing anytime soon.
Herbert claims that Verstappen will aim to surpass Schumacher’s two records, given he has the same number of world titles.
“Senna always finished a season and went back to Brazil for a whole reset to get his motivation back ahead of testing,” Herbert said.
Lewis is not an exception. Max is well aware that he has the talent to maybe surpass the two drivers who have won seven world titles. That’s why he does it.
“The common thread among all great champions, including Lewis, Max, Ayrton, and Michael, is their constant pursuit of personal improvement. That is their primary source of drive and what most distinguishes them from others.
“They all strive to address areas that they see as shortcomings, work on them, and ultimately transform them into strengths. After that, tackle the next negative to resolve.”
