Max Verstappen’s future in Formula 1 is expected to hinge significantly on his performance and circumstances during the 2026 season, according to his manager Raymond Vermeulen. The four-time world champion, currently with Red Bull Racing, has been linked with a potential switch to Mercedes, with talks between the two parties ongoing over the past year and a half. However, Verstappen remains contracted with Red Bull through 2028, though his options may change depending on results and regulations after 2026.
The Importance of the 2026 Season for Verstappen’s Career Path
Vermeulen highlighted that the upcoming 2026 season represents a crucial juncture for Verstappen’s trajectory in F1, as new technical regulations will significantly impact team performance across the grid. Despite speculation about a move away from Red Bull, Verstappen chose to honor his current contract for the 2025 season. Given the uncertainties brought by changing engine and chassis regulations, making a switch now would have involved considerable risk.
“It would have been a huge gamble if he had signed a contract elsewhere for next year. There are absolutely no guarantees. Everyone makes predictions, but they’re all assumptions. Next year won’t just be about the engine, but also about the chassis. And which people will be brought in here, what impact will that have?” Raymond Vermeulen, Max Verstappen’s manager
“It’s like a puzzle you’re piecing together. Hence, the conclusion is that it’s better to stay for at least another year. Max wants to win more championships in the future. He’s not ready yet in that regard, but he is dependent on the equipment. So I think 2026 will be a very important year, in which his future in Formula 1 will be determined.” Raymond Vermeulen, Max Verstappen’s manager
As 2026 approaches, the regulatory overhaul involving new power units and chassis designs could reshape the competitive landscape, making it difficult to predict which team will have the upper hand. Verstappen’s decision to remain with Red Bull through 2025 reflects a cautious approach, emphasizing stability while awaiting clearer indications of performance prospects under the revised framework.
Verstappen’s Loyalty to Red Bull Amid Past Challenges
Despite facing periods of difficulty, Verstappen has shown a strong connection to Red Bull, where he has raced since mid-2016. His successes with the team, including all 66 career wins and his 2021 world title, have reinforced this bond. According to his manager, even during challenging moments, Verstappen has considered leaving but ultimately remained confident in Red Bull’s ability to recover and stay competitive.
“Of course. There have been times when Red Bull really came up short. It’s understandable then that you think to yourself: what if we fall even further? But just look at the seasons: Red Bull has always found its way back up at some point. You saw that again earlier this month in Monza, for example.” Raymond Vermeulen, Max Verstappen’s manager
Verstappen’s long-term contract with Red Bull includes performance-related clauses that could allow early departure if conditions are unmet. However, the Dutch driver has expressed his desire to remain a one-team driver for the entirety of his career, highlighting an affinity and loyalty to the Milton Keynes-based outfit. This loyalty adds a complex layer to any speculation about a future move, especially given the sport’s rapidly changing dynamics.
The Broader Context: What Verstappen’s Choices Mean for Formula 1
The decisions Verstappen makes regarding his career after 2026 will have ripple effects across the Formula 1 paddock. His potential move to Mercedes or continued stay at Red Bull could influence the balance of power between the sport’s leading teams. The anticipation around his future reflects not only his status as a dominant driver today but also the aggressive competition looming with new regulations on the horizon.
As the 2026 season approaches, fans and teams alike will watch Verstappen’s performance and contractual developments closely. His success or struggles under the new technical rules could dictate not just his own path but also the strategic directions of multiple top teams seeking championships.
Ultimately, the coming years will be pivotal for the Dutch driver, who remains determined to add to his legacy but must navigate the uncertainties tied to evolving regulations and competitive dynamics. His manager’s remarks underscore that the 2026 campaign may be the defining moment that shapes the remainder of Verstappen’s Formula 1 career.
