Max Verstappen says he was nearer to leaving Formula 1 than joining another team
The Red Bull driver said his decision to extend through 2030 came after he felt more likely to quit the sport than switch teams.
Max Verstappen said he was closer to retiring from Formula 1 than moving to a rival team after agreeing a contract extension with Red Bull through 2030. He made the remarks as he explained why he stayed with the reigning outfit.
The Dutch driver said he never really wanted to leave Red Bull for another team, according to reports from BBC Sport, ESPN and Sky Sports. The extension keeps him tied to the team for the rest of the decade.
Verstappen has been one of Formula 1's leading drivers in recent seasons and his future had been the subject of speculation before the new deal was announced. His comments suggest retirement was the more serious alternative he considered.
Red Bull's agreement with Verstappen secures the four-time world champion for the long term as the team continues its push in Formula 1.
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