Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has dismissed recent rumors about a possible move from Red Bull Racing to Mercedes in 2026, describing his decision to remain with Red Bull as straightforward. Despite speculation, Verstappen, who is contracted until the end of the 2028 season, emphasized that his choice was clear after an exit clause tied to his championship points was not triggered.
How Verstappen Viewed the Contract Talks and Media Stories
The 27-year-old driver told ESPN that he was never stressed about his future, as his focus remained on his performance and winning. He explained,
“I only say what I want to say,”
and added,
“People always come up with stories or ask questions. But for me, it was quite straightforward all the time.”
For Verstappen, the ongoing speculation was just noise rather than a source of anxiety.
He described himself as naturally calm under pressure, saying,
“I think in general, I’m a person that is always quite relaxed about it,”
and,
“I just live my life, you know, see what happens next. For me, there’s nothing wrong with talking or listening (to offers) or whatever, but it was all under control.”
The Relationship Between Verstappen and Mercedes’ Toto Wolff
While Verstappen maintained his focus on Red Bull, he acknowledged a positive relationship with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, who had publicly expressed interest in signing the star driver. Wolff even delayed contract talks with Mercedes’ George Russell to explore the possibility of Verstappen joining.
This led to buzz on social media after images surfaced of Wolff and Verstappen spending time together on a yacht during a summer vacation in Sardinia. Verstappen downplayed the business implications of their encounter, saying,
“There’s no secret. I mean, I even went for lunch with Toto and the family and I think that’s absolutely allowed. It’s not even that you speak about Formula 1 business, it’s just life. We parked up next to each other because we were in the same bay to sleep and during the day everyone does their thing.”
He added,
“But sometimes you meet up and you have a good relationship with people. I think that’s nice, that it’s not only about competition.”
Current Performance and Contractual Details
Verstappen currently sits third in the drivers’ standings with 187 points, behind Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris of McLaren, who have 284 and 275 points respectively. This season, Verstappen has claimed two wins and five podium finishes. Over his career, he has earned 65 wins and 117 podiums, including double-digit race wins from 2021 through 2023 with 10, 15, and 19 victories in those years.
His contract includes an exit clause that would have allowed him to leave Red Bull at the end of the 2025 season if he were ranked fourth or lower following the Hungarian Grand Prix on August 3, but since that condition was not met, he remains bound to the team.
Looking Ahead at Verstappen’s Season and Future
This week, Verstappen is competing in his home country at the Dutch Grand Prix, an event of great significance for the Dutchman and his fans. Given his clear decision to stay with Red Bull and his ongoing competitive form, Verstappen’s future appears firmly tied to his current team. His choice to stay should maintain stability for Red Bull as they plan their strategy for the upcoming seasons.
