Beyond the Grid: 10 Things That Could Lure Max Verstappen Out of F1

Max Verstappen, renowned for his prowess in Formula 1, harbors a wide range of interests that go beyond the racetrack and reveal a multi-faceted individual. This listicle explores ten intriguing aspects of Verstappen’s life that hint at possible future endeavors and passions, potentially indicating a life beyond his celebrated F1 career. From his love for sim racing and karting to aspirations in team ownership and a penchant for extreme sports, Verstappen’s world is as dynamic as it is diverse.

10. Sim Racing Obsession: The Virtual Track Pulling Max Away

Source: tagheuer.com

Max Verstappen’s passion for sim racing isn’t just a hobby—it’s a full-fledged side career. He leads Verstappen.com Pro Simulation and remains deeply involved with Team Redline, using sim racing to unwind and even scout future talent. His commitment raises questions about how long F1 will remain his sole focus.


9. A Lifelong Passion for Karting That Rivals F1

Source: redbull.com

Despite his spectacular Formula 1 success, Verstappen still harbors a deep love for karting, where his racing journey began. As he continues racking up achievements (64 wins and 4 consecutive championships as of the 2025 Miami GP), many speculate his karting passion might eventually pull him away from F1 before his Red Bull contract ends in 2028.


8. Ambitions in Team Ownership and Motorsport Management

NORTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – JULY 03: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing prepares to drive on the grid prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Great Britain at Silverstone on July 03, 2022 in Northampton, England. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202207030646 // Usage for editorial use only //

Beyond F1, Verstappen has revealed clear team ownership ambitions. While still racing, he’s already investing in Team Redline for sim racing rather than starting his own team, demonstrating his loyalty and business acumen. More significantly, he’s launched Verstappen.com Racing, which entered GT World Challenge Europe in 2025, showcasing his long-term vision beyond driving. His stated goal: “Eventually, I would like Verstappen.com to become a pure and simple team.”


7. A Love for Travel Outside the F1 Calendar

MIAMI, FLORIDA – MAY 03: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing looks on during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Miami at Miami International Autodrome on May 03, 2025 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202505040075 // Usage for editorial use only //

Despite racing across five continents and 21 countries during the F1 season, Verstappen has revealed Japan as his favorite destination. He appreciates Tokyo’s vibrant atmosphere and would “make time to explore the whole country.” The three-time world champion also has a soft spot for Italy, enjoying its cuisine alongside the racing heritage that spans from Monza to Imola.


6. Interest in Football and Following Dutch Sports

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Max Verstappen, despite being born in Belgium, races under the Dutch flag and has strong ties to Dutch sports culture. The four-time world champion frequently attends football matches during F1 breaks and is an avid supporter of Dutch teams. With his frustrations mounting at Red Bull’s disappointing start to the 2025 season, his love for Dutch sports might pull him back to the Netherlands before his contract ends in 2028.


5. Spending Time on Comedy and Films

– Red Bull Content Pool

Max Verstappen’s comedic side has been increasingly visible in 2025, from his hilarious exchanges with Lando Norris during pre-season testing to his memorable quips at the Australian Grand Prix, which was dubbed the “Red Bull Comedy Club.” His growing interest in entertainment and media appearances, including viral press conference moments at the Saudi GP, suggests Verstappen might be eyeing opportunities beyond the racing world before his contract ends.


4. Enjoyment of Music and Singing in Private

BARCELONA, SPAIN – JUNE 03: Pole position qualifier Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing and Third placed qualifier Lando Norris of Great Britain and McLaren attend the press conference after qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Spain at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on June 03, 2023 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202306030517 // Usage for editorial use only //

Max Verstappen has developed a surprising passion for music, with his own theme song “33 Max Verstappen” by Carte Blanq & Maxx Power becoming a viral hit with its catchy “Tu-tu-du-du” chorus. In March 2025, Verstappen revealed his musical preferences during an interview, showing he enjoys listening to his own anthem. He even experienced Grammy emotions in February 2025, reacting to missing out on an award for Best Theme Song.


3. Reading and Coaching: Inspired by Johan Cruyff

NORTHAMPTON, ENGLAND – JULY 03: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing prepares to drive on the grid prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Great Britain at Silverstone on July 03, 2022 in Northampton, England. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202207030652 // Usage for editorial use only //

Verstappen has a deep admiration for Dutch football legend Johan Cruyff, whom he met during testing in Barcelona in 2016 shortly before Cruyff’s passing. Their connection was profound, with Verstappen recalling Cruyff’s optimistic words: “I may be 2-1 down at halftime, but I am going to win this race.” This meaningful encounter inspired Max’s approach to racing and has sparked his interest in coaching philosophies and sports psychology beyond F1.


2. Chasing Adrenaline Through Extreme Sports

MIAMI, FLORIDA – MAY 04: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB21 and Oscar Piastri of Australia driving the (81) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes battle for track position on track during the F1 Grand Prix of Miami at Miami International Autodrome on May 04, 2025 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202505050364 // Usage for editorial use only //

Max Verstappen’s passion for adrenaline isn’t confined to the F1 track—he regularly engages in extreme sports, sharing videos of himself tackling high-speed, high-risk adventures away from racing. These pursuits fuel speculation he may seek new challenges outside of Formula 1 before his contract ends in 2028.


1. Hinting at a Desire for More Personal Freedom

SPIELBERG, AUSTRIA – JULY 10: Second placed Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing attends the press conference after the F1 Grand Prix of Austria at Red Bull Ring on July 10, 2022 in Spielberg, Austria. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202207100343 // Usage for editorial use only //

Max Verstappen’s recent actions—like his subdued media presence and frank criticisms of FIA regulations—signal a growing appetite for personal freedom. He’s even been advised to consider a sabbatical in 2026, underscoring mounting speculation he may prefer life beyond F1 commitments before his contract ends.

Conclusion:

MIAMI, FLORIDA – MAY 04: Max Verstappen of the Netherlands driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB21 leads Lando Norris of Great Britain driving the (4) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes Oscar Piastri of Australia driving the (81) McLaren MCL39 Mercedes Andrea Kimi Antonelli of Italy driving the (12) Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team W16 and the rest of the field at the start during the F1 Grand Prix of Miami at Miami International Autodrome on May 04, 2025 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202505043342 // Usage for editorial use only //

As Max Verstappen continues to make waves both on and off the Formula 1 circuit, his growing array of interests may eventually guide him towards new horizons. Whether through his burgeoning investment in motorsport management, deep-rooted love for karting, or passion for music and coaching, Verstappen’s evolving pursuits suggest a legacy that extends far beyond the confines of traditional racing. With eyes set on personal freedom and new challenges, the world eagerly anticipates where Verstappen’s journey will take him next.