Max Verstappen weighs up F1 exit as Red Bull target Kimi Antonelli
Four-time world champion Max Verstappen is openly considering his future in Formula 1 following a frustrating start to the 2026 season, prompting speculation that Red Bull could target Mercedes prospect Kimi Antonelli as his replacement.
The Dutchman has amassed just 12 points from the opening three races of the new campaign.
Frustrations peaked after an eighth-place finish at Sunday’s Japanese Grand Prix, where the Red Bull talisman admitted he was no longer enjoying the sport amid a controversial new era of technical regulations.
I’m thinking about everything inside the paddock.
Max Verstappen
The grid’s dominant force elaborated on his struggles to maintain focus while grappling with a lack of motivation on the track.
I think I’m committing 100 per cent and I’m still trying, but the way that I am telling myself to give it 100 per cent is not very healthy at the moment because I am not enjoying what I’m doing.
Max Verstappen
Herbert backs Antonelli for Red Bull seat
Should the defending champion choose to walk away, the Milton Keynes-based outfit will face the monumental task of securing a high-calibre successor.
Former British driver and broadcaster Johnny Herbert believes that rising Mercedes star Kimi Antonelli possesses the generational talent required to fill the void.
The young Italian has commenced the season in scintillating form, securing consecutive race victories in China and Japan to help establish a formidable winning streak for the Silver Arrows.
He’s the next generation that’s going to be coming along; will he be better than Max? Potentially.
Johnny Herbert
Generational shifts in Formula 1
Herbert drew comparisons between the sport’s historical icons, noting how each era produces a driver capable of elevating performance benchmarks.
The pundit highlighted the progression from Ayrton Senna to Michael Schumacher, before acknowledging the subsequent leaps made by Lewis Hamilton and the current Red Bull spearhead.
Kimi, potentially, is the next one who’s going to do exactly the same thing, so there’s your replacement.
Johnny Herbert
Luring Antonelli away from Mercedes may prove difficult given their current dominance.
However, the prospect of eventually emerging from team-mate George Russell’s shadow could tempt the breakout star to consider a blockbuster switch.
