Max Verstappen has confirmed that he will drive for Red Bull in Formula One next year, ending speculation about his future with the team. The 27-year-old Dutch driver is under contract at Red Bull until 2028 and had faced questions over his loyalty to the team amid rumors of a potential switch to Mercedes.
Verstappen stated that he never really considered leaving Red Bull, as the general feeling within the team was that he would remain with them. However, he acknowledged that there were some discussions about what could be done to improve the car’s performance next year.
Despite this, Verstappen ensured that his commitment to Red Bull is clear for 2025 by stating that “it’s time to basically stop all the rumors.” His contract does include an escape clause, but with a significant lead in the drivers’ championship, there’s no need for him to consider leaving now.
With Verstappen staying put at Red Bull, attention shifts to George Russell and his ongoing negotiations with Mercedes. Russell is looking forward to finalizing a new deal with the team, but has emphasized that he wants it to be “right both ways” before agreeing to anything.
The Mercedes driver believes that his performance this year has reduced his reliance on the team’s support, and now trusts Toto Wolff and the team to continue backing him. Russell is focused on winning in a car capable of doing so, rather than securing a lucrative deal.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6527458/2025/07/31/max-verstappen-red-bull-2026