F1's Verstappen Hits 200 Races, Not Eyeing 400!

Verstappen reaches 200 Grand Prix milestone, signaling no plans for a similar feat in the future.

Max Verstappen has stated that he will not be in F1 for another 200 races as he reaches this milestone this weekend.

The Dutch Grand Prix is set to see the triple world champion participate in his 200th Grand Prix, making him the 24th driver in history to achieve this.

Verstappen already boasts a highly successful record with over 60 race wins and more than 100 podiums to his name.

The 26-year-old has long hinted at ending his F1 career when his current contract expires in 2028 due to disagreements over the sport’s direction, while also expressing an interest in pursuing other racing ventures.

When asked if he sees himself in F1 for another 200 races, Verstappen today told the media in Zandvoort: “No. That’s easy for me to say.”

“I have definitely passed the halfway point of my F1 career, that’s for sure. It’s been an incredible journey. 200 races doesn’t feel like 200.”

“But of course, we do a lot of races now each year, so they add up quite quickly.”

2028 will mark Verstappen’s final contract year with Red Bull. For now, he does not want to think about his future and a possible extension in F1.

“Of course, 2028 is still a long way off, but in my mind at the moment, I’m not thinking about a new contract just yet. I just want to see how things go, see also the new rules for us, whether it’s fun or not. And then even in 2026, 2027, there’s a lot of time to decide what will happen. So I’m keeping everything open. It should be quite easy to manage.”

When asked about his highlight moment, Verstappen did not have to think long.

“Honestly, I think winning your very first race is always very moving because it’s something you dream about as a child. To step onto the podium in F1 and then to stand on the highest step, I think that’s always very special. Winning your first championship, those kinds of things. There will always be something incredible that I’ll remember after my career, and there will always be those two standout moments.”

In the meantime, what can Verstappen hope for in his 200th race, especially as it takes place at home this weekend in Zandvoort?

“You just have to be realistic. If you can win the race, of course, you go for it. If you stand no chance, it’s very simple. You don’t deserve to win. You move on and try to do better.”

“So for me, we just have to wait and see where we are throughout this weekend. And I don’t know yet. Of course, say last year, coming here, I was much more confident about our great chances of winning the race, but that’s how the season unfolds.”

“It’s far more competitive and from our side, I think we are always trying to improve, to find a better balance with the car, and I hope that we can start to find this better balance here.”