Max Verstappen, the reigning Formula 1 champion, has hinted at the possibility of quitting the sport following a penalty for swearing during a televised press conference ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix. After describing his Red Bull car as “f*****” in frustration, Verstappen was handed a community service order by F1’s governing body, leaving the 26-year-old questioning his future in Formula 1.

Verstappen, who finished second in the race behind Lando Norris, skipped the post-race FIA press conference in protest and kept his media interactions brief. Currently under contract with Red Bull until 2028, he revealed that the punishment has made him reconsider his place in the sport. “These kinds of things definitely influence my future decisions,” Verstappen said. “If you can’t be yourself or have to deal with these trivial issues, it becomes exhausting.”

This incident comes amid Verstappen’s growing concerns over F1’s demanding schedule. Despite leading the championship by 52 points with six rounds to go and eyeing a fourth consecutive title, the Dutch driver expressed that his priorities have shifted. “Winning races is great, but after achieving so much, you also want to enjoy life,” he noted.

Verstappen’s frustration stems from what he sees as unnecessary distractions in the sport, like his punishment for swearing. He argued that these incidents take away from the real competition on the track. “Everyone is pushing to the limit, even those at the back of the grid. But dealing with things like this just isn’t what I’m here for,” he stated.

As he continues his push for another world title, Verstappen made it clear that he won’t change his personality or approach, despite the criticism. “I will always be myself. I won’t change how I live my life,” he declared. “At some point, enough is enough. Racing will go on, and F1 will go on without me if it has to.”

Verstappen is set to return to the track at the Austin Grand Prix in Texas on October 20, with his focus back on the championship. However, lingering questions about his future in the sport remain.