Max Verstappen has voiced strong criticism of Formula 1's packed race calendar, calling the current 24-race season "far too full" and a burden on the entire paddock.
When asked by Sport Bild about what he finds nonsensical in F1, the reigning world champion was quick to point out the exhausting schedule. "The number of races," he said. "24 grands prix are an imposition on everyone who is part of the paddock. 17 or 18 would be a good number."
While Verstappen finds the schedule overwhelming, Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko, 81, has a different take. "It doesn't bother me so much," Marko told Österreich. "I can relax wonderfully on long flights."
Verstappen, 27, has faced an intense season with Red Bull, marred by internal team tensions and performance challenges that have triggered speculation about his future with the team. Despite these rumors, Verstappen dismissed any thoughts of leaving.
"Never, actually," he responded when asked how often he thinks about his future. "I'm happy with what I'm doing now, and I want to keep doing it. I'm not looking for a change. That's why all the speculation is unnecessary. I'm the one who ultimately has to decide. And at the moment I don't see any need for action."
Though his contract with Red Bull runs through 2028, Marko has acknowledged that exit clauses do exist. Addressing this, Verstappen stated, "I know exactly what is in my contract and what options there are. It is my duty to know that. You should never sign something if you don't know what you're signing. But I generally don't talk about my contract in public."
Currently leading the drivers' standings with a 47-point margin over McLaren's Lando Norris, Verstappen downplayed the idea that Norris or any other driver is his "toughest opponent." He remarked, "Lando is a very good driver, but there isn't one big rival who makes my life hell. The teams are too close to each other for it to always be a one-on-one battle. Every weekend is different. Some cars work better on some tracks than others. It's the same with drivers."
When asked if he would feel more pressure if Norris' teammate, Oscar Piastri—often described as a driver with "stronger nerves"—were his main challenger, Verstappen replied, "No. I always sleep well."
