Max Verstappen is confirmed to remain with Red Bull Racing for the immediate future, but the 2026 season will be crucial in deciding whether he stays beyond that. The four-time Formula 1 World Champion is expected to evaluate how the team performs under the new technical regulations introduced that year before making a definitive choice about his career.
This outlook comes from former Red Bull driver and ambassador David Coulthard, who believes Verstappen will give the team an opportunity to prove itself but will consider leaving if the situation deteriorates significantly.
David Coulthard’s Perspective on Verstappen’s Loyalty and Potential Move
Coulthard emphasized Verstappen’s strong loyalty to Red Bull but acknowledged the driver’s competitive nature. Referring to the 2026 season as a make-or-break moment, he noted that Verstappen would not simply abandon Red Bull unless the team is struggling considerably under the revamped regulations.
“Jump on the next horse because your own didn’t win,”
Coulthard said, highlighting that Verstappen would likely stay unless serious issues arise. He explained the decision ultimately lies with Verstappen and his assessment of the team’s readiness to contend in the evolving landscape.
“There’s no black and white answer. It’s very personal, isn’t it? But I do believe Max? I know Max – I absolutely believe in his integrity, I believe in his loyalty,”
—David Coulthard, Former Red Bull driver and ambassador
“But equally, he’s a racing driver. He’s not here because it’s fun to just go round in circles. He has a commitment to the team. He’ll give the team the opportunity to deliver him what they previously delivered him.”
—David Coulthard, Former Red Bull driver and ambassador
Concerns About Red Bull’s 2026 Powertrain and Team Changes
One key factor in Verstappen’s decision will be the performance of Red Bull’s new power unit for 2026, developed in partnership with Ford. Rumors suggest the powertrain may not be as competitive at the start of the season compared to rivals. If Red Bull cannot produce a winning car consistently, Verstappen might reconsider his position.
Coulthard noted the arrival of Laurent Mekies as Red Bull’s team principal, replacing Christian Horner, coincides with Verstappen’s contract period, marking a fresh leadership phase that may influence the driver’s decision.
“The same group of guys that delivered him a winning car are now delivering him a car that has won this year. So it’s not as bad as Ferrari. It’s just not a McLaren. And therefore, you don’t just jump on the next horse because your own didn’t win,”
Coulthard explained.
“And I know one thing, Max would go and look them in the eye and say: ‘I’m making this decision because of that’. Because he’s an honourable guy. He’s not someone that just would leave.”
—David Coulthard, Former Red Bull driver and ambassador
Possible Destinations if Verstappen Leaves Red Bull
Verstappen has been linked with other top teams, particularly Mercedes and Ferrari, as potential future employers depending on how his situation evolves. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff recently mentioned a 50% chance of Verstappen joining Mercedes at some point.
Coulthard considers both Mercedes and Ferrari possible destinations but insists Verstappen’s decision will be guided more by where he feels he can perform at his best and be true to himself, rather than financial incentives.
“I can see [Verstappen going to Mercedes]. But does that mean I know it will happen? Of course not,”
Coulthard said.
“There’s a 50% chance he’ll end up at Ferrari, I guess. He will go wherever the best opportunity lies to have a winning car.”
—David Coulthard, Former Red Bull driver and ambassador
“Max will not go where there’s just money, because he’s already earned the success of his career. He will go where he believes he can be himself.”
—David Coulthard, Former Red Bull driver and ambassador
Significance of the 2026 Season for Verstappen and Red Bull
The 2026 season represents a pivotal moment for both Verstappen and Red Bull Racing due to major regulation changes affecting powertrains and car design. Whether Red Bull can maintain its competitive edge with a new power unit and under new leadership will heavily influence Verstappen’s future decisions. The season will reveal if the team can continue its dominance or if Verstappen might pursue new opportunities to secure further championships.
As a driver known for loyalty balanced with a strong commitment to winning, Verstappen’s decision post-2026 will have a significant impact on the Formula 1 landscape and the continued success of Red Bull.
