F1 News: Red Bull Advisor Discusses Verstappen's Potential Early Retirement

Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko has spoken about Max Verstappen's early retirement threats.

Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko has opened up on two-time champion Max Verstappen's bold claims that he will consider retiring from Formula One after his current contract with the team ends at the end of 2028. 

Verstappen has voiced concerns over the direction the sport is going in with the increased number of races per season, the heightened media responsibilities, and the more sprint races which are also being added. 

However, as the current championship leader, losing the Dutch driver would be a big blow for the Austrian team as well as for the sport. 

During a recent interview with Motorsport-Magazin.com, Marko has spoken about Verstappen's future in Formula One. He confirmed that he doesn't see him lasting in the sport as long as 42-year-old Fernando Alonso. Marko explained:

"The only thing stopping Verstappen is himself. I don't think he will continue as long as Alonso, for example, but that at some point he will say, 'It's been nice like this.'

"It definitely depends on how the sport develops.

"People should not forget that he has to spend one day in the simulator before each race. He may have reduced PR and marketing obligations, but they are still there. He also has to build and maintain his fitness. That leaves relatively little free time."

Verstappen hasn't confirmed what he will decide to do in the future, however, with it being so far away fans are not expected to hear anytime soon.

Formula One is currently on the summer break and racing will get going again for Verstappen's home race at the Zandvoort circuit for the Dutch Grand Prix on 25-27 August.