In a shocking turn of events, Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion, is set to stay with Red Bull Racing despite rumors of a potential exit. The Dutch superstar seems determined to wait until 2027 before considering any changes to his current team.
After a disappointing fourth-place finish at Spa-Francorchamps, Verstappen’s streak of podium finishes came to an end, marking his third consecutive race without a top-three placement. However, amidst the disappointment, there seems to be cause for celebration at Red Bull Racing.
Renowned Dutch journalist Erik van Haren has revealed that Verstappen is likely to remain with the Milton Keynes-based team until at least the 2026 season, showing his commitment to Red Bull’s vision for the upcoming technical regulations overhaul. The recent results, including George Russell’s fifth-place finish, have seemingly cemented Verstappen’s position within the team.
Speculations regarding activating a release clause in Verstappen’s contract, which would allow him to leave Red Bull before the end of 2028, have now been put on hold. Despite contractual nuances, Verstappen appears content with his current situation and shows no inclination to switch teams.
With the new regulations set to take full effect in 2027, Verstappen seems keen on assessing all available options before making any significant career moves. The upcoming season could see openings not only at Mercedes but also at Ferrari and Aston Martin, presenting the Dutch driver with a plethora of opportunities to explore.
As the season progresses, the competitive landscape could shift, potentially offering Red Bull a chance to field a highly competitive car. In such a scenario, Verstappen might opt to extend his stay at Milton Keynes, further solidifying his position as one of the top drivers in Formula 1.
