Verstappen: Alonso’s Retirement Decision Is “Easier” Than His Own

Verstappen weighs in on Alonso’s future

Max Verstappen believes Fernando Alonso faces a more straightforward decision over his Formula 1 future, despite suggesting that the Spaniard still deserves to be competing at the front of the grid.

That combination of poor results and reduced enjoyment has intensified speculation that Alonso could retire in the near future. The uncertainty has also been discussed elsewhere in the paddock, with Pedro de la Rosa previously outlining the two options facing Alonso: continuing with Aston Martin or stepping away from Formula 1.

“Fernando doesn’t deserve to be P21”

“I fully agree with him. It is not what you want,” Verstappen said. “Of course, Fernando is 45 so it’s probably easier for him to say ‘I quit’ because he has already done, basically his career. I would love to see Fernando race until he’s 60, but I don’t think that’s realistic in Formula 1.”

For Verstappen, the central issue is not simply Aston Martin’s position. If a driver no longer enjoys the regulations and is unable to compete competitively, the motivation required to continue becomes considerably harder to sustain.

“As a real racer, it’s tough and especially, of course, when you’re not enjoying the regulations, you’re not competitive at the moment, it’s a tough one,” he added. “Because Fernando, of course, doesn’t deserve to be P21. Fernando deserves to be in the top five, minimum.”

Verstappen faces a different calculation

Verstappen has also been linked with questions over his own future, given his reservations about the regulations and the possibility of remaining with Red Bull. However, he stressed that his situation is different because he has not yet reached his 30s.

“I’m of course 28, so it’s a little bit different,” he said. “I can easily stop, it’s not a problem, but I love racing.”

For now, Verstappen says he is focused on managing the current situation, even if the sport is not delivering the competitive or sporting experience he wants.

“I’m just trying to deal with what we have, even though what we have at the moment is not what I like.”