Mar.29 (GMM) Toto Wolff admits he hopes Max Verstappen does not walk away from Formula 1, amid growing signs the Dutchman is losing motivation.
The four-time world champion cut a beyond-dejected figure after qualifying at Suzuka, where Red Bull’s struggles and Verstappen’s frustration with the 2026 regulations continue to mount.
“I am not even frustrated anymore. I am beyond that,” Verstappen said.
“I don’t know the right word in English for it. I don’t know it in Dutch either. There is no word.
“There are a lot of things for me personally to figure out.”
When pressed on what he meant, Verstappen gave a telling reply: “Life … life here.”
The comments come as Verstappen battles two major issues – dissatisfaction with the energy-heavy new rules, and a Red Bull car that is currently uncompetitive.
Mercedes boss Wolff, speaking to Sky Deutschland, said the situation is understandable.
“Max is certainly a person with emotions. For him, the most important thing is driving pleasure. I can easily imagine that’s not the case now.
“It would be nice if we don’t lose Max from Formula 1 altogether. But we’re fine with our two drivers, and we’re not planning to change anything.”
Verstappen also hinted that his future could depend on how the sport evolves.
“A lot depends on how they decide what will happen next year,” he said.
“When I am in the car, I want to give it my all, but in the current Formula 1, I cannot do that and I do not enjoy it. When you are away from home for so long, you hope that you will at least find joy in what you are doing.”
While he continues to seek enjoyment through GT racing, Verstappen suggested even that may not be enough long-term.
“Yes, I will try to experience the joy of racing in other things,” he said, near-confirming that he will be back at the Nordschleife prior to the next grand prix in Miami.
“But after a while, even that will not be enough.”
Verstappen also addressed the Suzuka media controversy, defending his decision to eject a journalist from his press session.
“If you don’t give me respect, why would I give you respect?” he said.
“I’ve been in Formula 1 long enough to know who has good intentions and who has bad intentions. If you laugh at me like that, you clearly don’t have good intentions.”
With Red Bull struggling and the rules continuing to divide opinion, Verstappen warned the season could become a long one for him without improvement.
“I hope the month-long break before Miami changes things. If we continue like this, the season is going to be very long with the problems we have.”
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES