Max Verstappen could take a bold step in 2026, with growing talks suggesting a sabbatical as F1’s future rules reshape the grid.
Johnny Herbert believes that Max Verstappen might seriously consider taking a sabbatical from Formula 1 in 2026, as speculation about his future continues to grow.
Although Verstappen’s current deal with Red Bull runs until the end of 2028, concerns over the RB21’s lack of competitiveness and doubts surrounding Red Bull’s in-house engine project for 2026 could push him to explore new opportunities.
Mercedes and Aston Martin have emerged as potential destinations if Verstappen decides to move on. However, Herbert, a former F1 driver and steward, suggests that taking a year off could also be a real option. His comments echo rumors that surfaced during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend, which also involved names like Lando Norris and George Russell.
Taking a year out would allow Verstappen to observe which team best adapts to the sweeping 2026 regulation changes before committing to a new project. Still, Herbert admits that jumping straight into a new team might be the smarter move.
“This has been talked about a lot in the paddock. According to several sources, it is actually very possible. Would Max Verstappen lose his edge if he took a year off? Absolutely not.”
“Max would be just as sharp after a sabbatical. He really has three choices. Stay with Red Bull, move to either Aston Martin or Mercedes, or step away for a year.”
“Taking a year off would give him the chance to see who gets it right in 2026 and then join the strongest team. But I believe he would prefer to be part of a team from the start of the new regulations so he can influence the car’s development and tailor it to his driving style.”
“Imagine if Mercedes nails it and Kimi Antonelli and George Russell are constantly finishing first and second. Verstappen could miss his window to join them.”
“Mercedes has been in talks with the Verstappen family even before Max made his F1 debut. Their car is expected to be much stronger next year, especially with their new engine project. While Mercedes lost ground after 2021, they have made serious progress this season.”
“Right now, Mercedes looks stronger than Aston Martin. Aston Martin is hoping Adrian Newey’s expertise will help them through the 2026 rule changes, but from what I hear, Mercedes is very well positioned to be a frontrunner next season.”
“If either team ends up dominating next year, they will be very reluctant to change anything that is already working.”
- Discover More>Will McLaren back Piastri early to chase the title?
- Follow us on >FACEBOOK and >TWITTERfor F1 update
Could Verstappen Pause F1 Career to Pick Perfect Team? Could Verstappen Pause F1 Career to Pick Perfect Team?
- Verstappen Admits McLaren’s Rob Marshall Boost Hurts Red Bull
- Rising Star Antonelli Targets World Title with Mercedes
- James Vowles: F1 Friendships, Hamilton Bonds and Racing Dreams
- F1’s AI Revolution Grows Fast but People Stay Essential
- Verstappen key to Aston Martin’s bold F1 masterplan