SAD NEWS: Just 10 Minutes Ago, Jos Verstappen Stuns Max Verstappen Fans Worldwide with Shocking Announcement – Reveals Max Verstappen, 28, Is Currently… Facing Serious Health Scare That Could Sideline Him from the 2026 Season Opener

Formula 1 has been plunged into shock and concern after Max Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, made an emotional and unexpected announcement just minutes ago that has left millions of fans around the world reeling.

In a brief but deeply personal video posted to his personal Instagram account, Jos Verstappen – the former F1 driver and one of the most influential figures in his son’s career – revealed that Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion, is currently dealing with a serious health issue that has forced him to step away from immediate pre-season preparations and could jeopardize his participation in the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix on March 1.

“I never wanted to make this kind of announcement,” Jos said, his voice visibly strained. “But Max is 28 years old, he’s the strongest person I know, and right now he needs time. He’s been dealing with persistent health problems that the team and doctors are working on. It’s serious enough that he’s not able to be in the simulator or at the factory like normal. We’re all hoping it’s temporary… but we don’t know yet.”

While Jos did not specify the exact nature of the condition, sources close to Red Bull Racing have confirmed to multiple outlets that Verstappen has been struggling with recurring symptoms related to a previously undisclosed medical issue that worsened during the winter break. The team has placed him under specialist care in Monaco, with a full medical evaluation ongoing.

Red Bull Racing issued a short official statement shortly after the video surfaced:

“Max Verstappen is currently receiving medical attention for a health concern. The team is fully supporting him and his family during this time. We will provide updates when appropriate. Our focus remains on his well-being. The team is preparing for the season as normal and will adapt as needed.”

The news has sent shockwaves through the F1 community. Social media platforms are flooded with messages of support, worry, and disbelief under hashtags #GetWellMax and #MaxVerstappen trending No.1 globally within minutes:

“Max is the heart of this sport right now. This is heartbreaking. Please be okay, champ.” “Four titles by 28 and now this? The universe is cruel. Sending all love to Max and the family.” “If Max misses Bahrain, 2026 already feels different. Get well soon, legend.”

Drivers and teams quickly rallied with messages of support. Lando Norris posted a simple black square on Instagram with the caption: “Thinking of you Max. Take all the time you need. We’re all with you.” Lewis Hamilton wrote: “Speedy recovery brother. You’re stronger than any of us. Sending love.” Even McLaren team principal Andrea Stella commented: “Our thoughts are with Max and his family. F1 is nothing without its greatest competitors healthy and racing.”

Verstappen’s absence – even temporary – would be a massive blow to Red Bull and the sport’s global appeal. The 2026 season already carries huge anticipation with radical regulation changes. Verstappen, widely regarded as the benchmark driver of his generation, has been the central figure in F1’s marketing push for the new era.

Jos Verstappen ended his short video with a direct plea to fans:

“Max asked me not to make a big deal, but you all deserve to know. He’s fighting hard, like he always does. Please give him space and send good energy. We’ll update when we can.”

The F1 paddock is now in a state of quiet uncertainty. Pre-season testing in Bahrain begins in less than three weeks, and all eyes are on whether Verstappen will be cleared to return – or whether the sport will have to navigate its biggest season reset in decades without its reigning king.

The world waits. Max Verstappen fights. And motorsport holds its breath.

Get well soon, Max.