Max Verstappen has expressed strong disapproval of F1’s packed 24-race calendar, describing it as “far too full” and a strain on the paddock.
Speaking to Sport Bild, the reigning champion noted, “The number of races. Twenty-four Grands Prix is an imposition on everyone involved in the paddock. Seventeen or eighteen would be ideal.”
While Verstappen feels burdened by the relentless schedule, Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko, 81, offered a contrasting view: “It doesn’t bother me so much,” he told Österreich, adding that he finds relaxation on long flights.
Amid a season of high intensity, Verstappen has also dismissed rumors of a departure from Red Bull, despite recent performance strains and speculation about his future. When asked how often he contemplates his next steps, Verstappen answered, “Never, really. I’m content with what I’m doing and have no plans for a change. The speculation is unnecessary—I’m the one who decides, and I see no need for action now.”
Although his contract with Red Bull extends through 2028, Verstappen confirmed he is well aware of his contractual terms and possible exit clauses, clarifying, “I know exactly what’s in my contract and the options available. It’s my duty to know that, but I generally don’t discuss my contract publicly.”
Currently leading the standings by 47 points over McLaren’s Lando Norris, Verstappen shrugged off claims that any driver, including Norris, is his “toughest rival.” He commented, “Lando is a very good driver, but there isn’t one main competitor who consistently challenges me. Teams are too close in performance for every race to be a head-to-head. Each weekend brings new dynamics.”
On whether he would feel added pressure if McLaren’s Oscar Piastri—a driver regarded for his calm under pressure—became his primary challenger, Verstappen concluded with typical confidence: “No. I always sleep well.”
F1’s rapid expansion: A strain on teams and drivers
F1’s recent surge in popularity, significantly bolstered by Netflix’s Drive to Survive, has led Liberty Media, the sport’s commercial rights holder, to expand the race calendar. New circuits in the Middle East, the return of classic tracks in Europe, and three races in the U.S. with Miami and Las Vegas now complementing the long-standing Austin Grand Prix—reflect this growth.
To manage the intensified schedule, teams have begun rotating staff, while pre-season testing was cut to just three days. Spain’s Fernando Alonso, the seasoned double world champion, recalled an era when the calendar featured fewer than 20 races, aligning with Verstappen’s recent criticism of the packed season.
“When I started we had 16 races, then it was 18 at some point, and then I think when Liberty [Media] came it was like a message that we have 20 one season and that was absolutely the limit, 20 races,” the Aston Martin driver said. “And now we are up to 24 and this is not sustainable for the future.
The rapid expansion of F1’s calendar mirrors its surging global appeal, yet it brings with it mounting concerns over the physical and mental demands placed on drivers, teams, and support staff.
Read More: Why Max Verstappen’s Mexico GP Penalty Could be a Game Changer
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
