Hamilton’s Hunger to Push Limits Contrasts Verstappen’s Path

Rosberg sees Verstappen’s early retirement as plausible, while Hamilton’s relentless drive suggests his F1 journey is far from over.

Nico Rosberg has not ruled out the possibility of Max Verstappen making a surprise decision to retire from F1, just as he did after winning the Drivers’ Championship in 2016.

Although an unorthodox choice, the former Williams and Mercedes driver chose to step away at the age of 31, a scenario he can envision the current titleholder following.

Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull until the end of the 2028 F1 season, at which point he will be the same age as the German was when he ended his career.

While unconventional, particularly for someone of his caliber, the four-time world champion has repeatedly stressed in the past that he is open to early retirement, despite the very real possibility of surpassing Lewis Hamilton as the most decorated driver in F1 history.

The Dutchman has no intention of racing into his 40s, as the British driver does, and has already stated that his next F1 contract, if there is one, would be his last.

“It’s possible to see Max leave earlier, just as I did. Max has already achieved so much despite his young age,” Rosberg observes.

“The intensity of Formula 1 takes its toll, both mentally and physically. If he feels he has accomplished his goals and wants something else in life, I would understand his decision.”

Rosberg, however, does not see his former teammate, Lewis Hamilton, making the same choice.

“Lewis is driven by a deep love for the sport and a constant desire to push his limits. A change like the one he faces this year, racing for Ferrari, could reignite his passion.”

“Lewis is already a legend with nothing to prove, but his decision reflects the hunger of a man who wants to keep growing, both as a driver and as a person.”

Hamilton is now 40 years old, more than twice the age of some of the six rookies he will face in 2025. For Rosberg, the challenge Hamilton and Fernando Alonso are tackling serves as a source of motivation.

“For me, these rookies would be a motivation. When you see young drivers pushing their limits, you are forced to stay focused and improve every day.”

“I had two of the greatest drivers of all time as teammates—Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton—and I loved that level of challenge. That’s what kept me motivated.”

“These drivers are incredibly prepared and hungry for success. It was only a matter of time before we saw a shift coming from the junior categories.”

“The timing is perfect because 2025 will be a learning year for them as teams are familiar with their F1 cars, ahead of the new regulations in 2026, by which time the young drivers will be ready and prepared to attack.”