Nigel Mansell says Max Verstappen quitting threats rhetoric, but all Formula 1 drivers disgruntled

Verstappen is seeking racing thrills in other racing categories since the 2026 F1 season started with the rules delivering yo-yo racing, as Red Bull also added fuel to the Dutchman's fire by delivering a subpar car, the RB22.

Verstappen is trying his hand in endurance racing in the GT3 category and will take part in the 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours on May 16–17 and has been busy preparing for that.

Commenting on the Dutchman's extracurricular activities, Mansell said: "I didn't follow that [Max racing at Nürburgring 24 Hours], but I'm a huge fan of Max Verstappen and what he's achieved.

"He's just very frustrated that he can't input himself into the car at the moment, so he's doing other things to enjoy himself."

"Personally when I was in Formula One, I only focused on Formula One," the Briton added. "I think there's a lot of distractions going on at the moment, so people have different thoughts on that. There's only special individuals who can consider doing that."

Touching on Verstappen's threats to walk away from F1, Mansell insists it would be a great loss, but the sport will go on while also warning that the majority of drivers share the Red Bull ace's sentiments despite being less vocal with their criticism.

He explained: "No one's bigger than the sport, but it would be a great disappointment [if he leaves Formula One]. I just think it's rhetoric, and he's showing his displeasure.

"He doesn't feel he's being listened to, and a lot of the drivers have the same [feeling]. It's just that Max Verstappen is a four-time World Champion, so they use him more as a mouthpiece."

"All the drivers I know and have spoken to, everyone is very disgruntled at the moment. It'll all settle down," 72-year-old Mansell concluded. (Source: Aceodds.com)