Following back-to-back victories for Max Verstappen, spirits at Red Bull remain high, but the Dutch driver’s camp issued a pointed reminder during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend. His manager, Raymond Vermeulen, emphasized that Verstappen’s ongoing commitment to Red Bull depends heavily on the team’s performance with the new 2026 regulations and car development.
In the hours before Verstappen secured pole position leading to a dominant win in Baku, a revealing interview with Vermeulen was published by the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf. Together with Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, Vermeulen is one of the most influential voices regarding the four-time world champion’s career decisions.
Contract and Speculation Around Verstappen’s Next Steps
Despite widespread rumors tying Verstappen to Mercedes, the driver confirmed prior to the summer break that he will remain with Red Bull for at least the 2024 season. However, this commitment only extends through the current year, leaving open where he might race from 2027 onward. Many expect Verstappen to use 2025 as a testing ground under new regulations before making a longer-term decision.
Vermeulen’s recent statements appear to publicly acknowledge this cautious approach. He explained that Verstappen’s continuation with Red Bull depends on whether the team can deliver a car capable of championship success under the new rules.
“It would be a fantastic story if he [Verstappen] were to drive his entire Formula 1 career for Red Bull, but that will only happen if he has the equipment to be able to win,”
Vermeulen said.
Importance of 2026 Regulations and Team Changes
The 2026 Formula 1 regulations will introduce new engines and completely redesigned chassis, which could dramatically alter the competitive landscape. Red Bull, which controlled the early years of the current era, faced a challenge last season from McLaren, while traditional rivals like Mercedes, Ferrari, and Aston Martin aim to regain title contention next year.
Vermeulen pointed out that assessing the car’s overall package—engine, chassis, and technical staffing—is like assembling a puzzle that will heavily influence Verstappen’s future decisions.
“Next year it’s not only about the engine, but also about the chassis, and which people are brought in here, what impact will that have? It’s like putting together a puzzle. That’s why the conclusion was that it’s better to stay at least one more year.”
Verstappen’s Ambition and the 2026 Season’s Decisive Role
Max Verstappen remains motivated to add further championships to his career tally, but he acknowledges that his success heavily depends on the capabilities of his car and team environment. Vermeulen underscored the crucial nature of the 2026 season in shaping Verstappen’s trajectory within Formula 1.
“Max wants to win more championships in the future. He’s not done in that regard, but he is dependent on the equipment. So I think 2026 will be a very important year, one that will determine where his future lies in Formula 1.”
Looking Ahead to the Rest of the Season and Beyond
The 2025 Formula 1 championship continues at the Singapore Grand Prix from October 3-5, offering a chance for Verstappen and his rivals to battle under the lights. This period will serve not only as a test of current performance but also as preparation leading up to the pivotal 2026 season, which promises substantial technical changes and potentially a reshuffling of the F1 hierarchy.
How Verstappen and Red Bull adapt to these challenges is expected to influence the driver’s long-term commitment and the team’s ongoing dominance in the sport.
