Max Verstappen has declined to confirm whether he will remain with Red Bull for the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Despite a contract binding him to Red Bull until 2028, doubts persist about the four-time world champion’s long-term commitment, with Mercedes and Aston Martin both eager to secure his signature.
The Dutch driver, who recently welcomed his first child, has also hinted at the possibility of a sabbatical or even retirement.
Mercedes driver George Russell has suggested that his own contract negotiations are being delayed as the team, led by Toto Wolff, hold talks with Verstappen. “They’re clearly keeping their options open,” Russell said, referencing Wolff’s long-standing admiration for the Dutchman.
In 2024, Verstappen faced similar questions about his future amid a turbulent start for Red Bull, marked by reported tensions between team principal Christian Horner and Verstappen’s father, Jos.
When asked last year if he would stay with Red Bull for 2025, Verstappen confirmed his commitment, and he has since delivered another dominant season. However, when pressed about 2026, he remained evasive.
“I’ve been asked this before,” Verstappen told reporters when questioned about his plans for 2026. “I don’t think we need to dwell on it. It’s not something I’m focused on right now. I’m just driving, pushing performance, and we’ll see what happens.”
Red Bull’s motorsport advisor Helmut Marko has previously indicated that Verstappen will likely stay for the start of F1’s new regulations in 2026, which will bring major changes to car designs and power units. However, Verstappen stopped short of confirming Marko’s claim, leaving room for speculation.
On the topic of 2026, Verstappen praised Red Bull’s strategic shift toward the upcoming rules overhaul. “Teams are already looking ahead to 2026, and we’re no different,” he said.
“The steps we’re taking now are planned, but 2026 is a big opportunity to get things right. From what I’ve seen, we’re on the right track.”
As the 2025 season progresses, all eyes will be on Verstappen’s next move and Red Bull’s preparations for the future.
The F1 Austrian Grand Prix, the next race on the calendar, will see drivers tackle 71 laps of the 4.318-kilometre Red Bull Ring on Sunday, 29 June.
