Max Verstappen offers theory on potential Fernando Alonso F1 exit

Max Verstappen has weighed on speculation that Fernando Alonso could retire from Formula 1 in the near future, suggesting the Spaniard’s decision is “easier” than possible.

The two-time World Champion is now 45, and is currently in an unenviable situation of being part the Aston Martin squad currently struggling at the foot of the grid.

Alonso has also been critical of the new ruleset, and has been somewhat outspoken on the electrified power units, like Verstappen.

This may be the cornerstone of Alonso’s decision, as his enjoyment of the sport may take precedence over the Aston situation, particularly with its alliance with Honda showing some improvement already.

And when asked about this potential dilemma, Verstappen said: “I fully agree with him. It is not what you want.

“Of course, Fernando is 45 so it’s probably easier for him to say ‘I quit’ because he has already done, basically his career. I would love to see Fernando race until he’s 60, but I don’t think that’s realistic in Formula 1.

“As a real racer, it’s tough and especially, of course, when you’re not enjoying the regulations, you’re not competitive at the moment, it’s a tough one.

“Because Fernando, of course, doesn’t deserve to be P21. Fernando deserves to be in the top five, minimum.”

Verstappen has been rumoured to be weighing up his own future, given his own reservations about the regulations and a potential predicament of remaining with Red Bull.

But he admitted this situation is different to that of Alonso’s due to not yet having reached his 30s.

“I’m of course 28, so it’s a little bit different,” he said. “I can easily stop, it’s not a problem, but I love racing. 

“And I’m just trying to deal with what we have, even though what we have at the moment is not what I like.”