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Max Verstappen shocks F1 world by prioritizing family over crucial Red Bull training for 2026

David Castro by David Castro
January 21, 2026
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 2 mins read
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Max Verstappen shocks F1 world by prioritizing family over crucial Red Bull training for 2026

LUSAIL CITY, QATAR - OCTOBER 07: 2023 F1 World Drivers Champion Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrates with Kelly Piquet after the Sprint ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Qatar at Lusail International Circuit on October 07, 2023 in Lusail City, Qatar. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202310070622 // Usage for editorial use only //

Max Verstappen Shocks F1 World: Family First as He Ditches Simulator Training for 2026 Season!

In a surprising twist that has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 community, reigning champion Max Verstappen has declared his intention to prioritize family time over pre-season simulator training ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 F1 season. As the grid braces for a monumental shift with a brand-new generation of cars, Verstappen’s decision to step back from intensive preparations has raised eyebrows and sparked debates among fans and experts alike.

The 2026 season is set to unleash a whirlwind of changes, with teams grappling not only with fresh car designs but also significant alterations in power units. Notably, the complete elimination of the MGU-H and a more compact design are poised to redefine racing dynamics. For Red Bull Racing, the stakes are even higher. The team’s ambitious DM01 powertrain project will face rigorous testing as they navigate these uncharted waters.

Speaking candidly to Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, Verstappen confirmed his unconventional choice, stating, “I could spend 10 days in the simulator now, but that wouldn’t be very useful.” This bold stance highlights his belief that actual track experience is indispensable. He emphasized that many adjustments following the new rules only become evident once drivers hit the asphalt, making his time away from the simulator a calculated risk rather than mere negligence.

Instead of logging hours in a simulator, Verstappen plans to make the most of January by cherishing moments with his family. “I’d rather stay home with my family as much as possible, if I’m away that much,” he remarked, shedding light on his personal priorities amid the high-stakes world of F1. This revelation challenges the stereotype of a single-minded racer and humanizes the champion, who is often seen as a relentless competitor.

The first opportunity for Verstappen to showcase his skills in the new RB22 will occur during private testing in Barcelona, commencing on January 26. Unlike many teams, Red Bull has opted not to engage in a filming day prior to this crucial test. Instead, they have permitted their sister team, Racing Bulls, to conduct a brief test in Imola, aiming to gather essential data from the new engine setup.

As the countdown to the 2026 season accelerates, Verstappen’s approach could very well redefine how drivers prepare for the unprecedented challenges ahead. Will his family-first mentality pay off, or will it leave him at a disadvantage when it matters most? The F1 world is watching with bated breath as the champion prepares to balance personal life and professional ambition like never before.

Tags: 1958-formula-1-season2026-f1-seasonmax-verstappen-enoracle-red-bull-racingracing-bulls-2
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