Max Verstappen, one of the most successful drivers in Formula 1 with four world championships, may have violated a clause in his contract with Red Bull. Reports indicate that Verstappen engaged in skiing during the 2024 racing season, an activity reportedly prohibited under his agreement due to safety concerns.
Context of Verstappen’s 2024 Season and Contract
Verstappen, 28, lost his 2025 F1 crown to McLaren’s Lando Norris, who narrowly beat him by two points to claim his first title. Despite the setback, Verstappen remains one of the sport’s leading figures, reportedly earning around $76 million annually, making him the highest-paid driver in Formula 1. His contract with Red Bull includes specific restrictions to protect his health and ensure his racing performance is not compromised.
Details of the Alleged Skiing Incident
Between the 2024 Australian and Japanese Grands Prix, Verstappen took part in skiing, an activity that his contract reportedly prohibits due to its high risk of injury. This information was highlighted by The Sun, suggesting that skiing falls under the category of ‘dangerous sports’ that drivers are barred from participating in while contracted.
Red Bull’s Response and Verstappen’s Own Statement
Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s senior advisor, openly confirmed that Verstappen went skiing. Commenting on Verstappen’s Did Not Finish (DNF) status at the Australian Grand Prix, Marko said,
“Unfortunately, such a defect happens sometimes.”
In the meantime, Max was skiing in Japan in the most wonderful, best deep snow in the world.
Helmut Marko, Red Bull senior advisor
When pressed about whether Verstappen was permitted to ski, Marko responded,
I’ve already told you too much…
Helmut Marko, Red Bull senior advisor
Verstappen himself previously discussed the risks involved with skiing after a five-year break from the sport. He said,
“There is a risk in everything. I haven’t skied in five years because of the risk of breaking or twisting something with all the consequences that entails.”
And of course also in the knowledge that there are still years to come in which I have a great chance of becoming champion again and winning races. If you think about that, you automatically take fewer risks.
Max Verstappen, Formula 1 driver
Implications of the Contract Concern
This potential breach of contract raises questions about Verstappen’s adherence to Red Bull’s stringent safety clauses designed to minimize injury risks outside of racing. Given his status and the large financial commitments involved, any infraction could have significant impact on his relationship with the team and his future career. Formula 1 teams often impose strict restrictions to protect their drivers, making such breaches a source of tension.
